AKG C 414 XLII Multi-pattern Reference Condenser Used From AKG

Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Nine Switchable Polar Patterns The AKG C414 XLII raises the benchmark for multi-pattern condenser mics!

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What We Think

There have been multiple AKG 414's over the years that have slightly different specs and slight tweeks to the sound. The current offerings are the 414 XLS (black grille) and 414 XLII (gold grille). They both sound like 414's of the past, but they are tuned to be slightly different with different purposes in mind.

If you are looking for the more neutral, detailed and flat sound for recording everything from strings, pianos, vocals and choirs, the XLS is probably more your speed. Engineered to have a very neutral and detailed response, the XLS will accurately reproduce your source without compromise.

AKG calls the XLII (gold grille) more of a C12, and while it is brighter and more exciting than a the XLS (black grille) version, we wouldn't quite go so far as to call it a C12. The XLII does have a more exciting top end, slightly pushed and more open which can really shine for lead vocals, lead instruments or anything that you want to "POP" in the mix. The low end on the XLII is also slightly pushed as well which can lower "nasal" vocals. This is the mic if you are having trouble getting intsturments to sit "up" in a mix.

Both mics have been built to very similar specs and features with the 9 polar patterns, High Pass filters and switchable pads. This makes both ideal for quiet vocals to loud drum kits. The 414 is an easy choice for your studio, but talk to us so we can help you pick the right version!

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Manufacturer's Description from AKG

The C414 XLII multi-pattern condenser microphone offers a choice of nine polar patterns for the perfect sonic capture for every application. A peak hold LED displays even the shortest overload peaks. For live sound applications and permanent installations, all controls can easily be disabled for trouble-free use. The C414 XLII version differs from the C414 XLS version in one major respect – the capsule. The C414 XLII's slight presence boost and impressive spatial reproduction are both similar to the legendary AKG C12 microphone from 1953

About Manufacturer

Around the world recording studios, radio and TV stations, opera houses and famous stages count on AKG products. Internationally known musicians and show-stars have frequently been seen using our high-quality microphones and headphones for many decades. Today AKG is one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality microphones, headphones and wireless-equipment. Listed below is the brief story of one of the most famous brands in the professional audio-world. AKG, founded in Vienna by Dr. Rudolf Goerike and Ernst Pless, soon became one of the biggest players in the world of sound. Today AKG is synonymous with good sound, stands for passion in music providing the highest quality and ongoing innovation in the world of music. The company was founded in 1947 and within months, the first AKG microphones were being used in radio stations, theatres and Jazz-Clubs. The products (the AKG DYN Series) were at that time manufactured by hand by five workers. In 1949, the first AKG headphones came on the market. Then, in the early fifties AKG made a breakthrough with several new products: Totally new technologies like the world’s first high quality condenser microphone, the D 12 with its cardioid characteristics, the world’s first remote-controlled multi-pattern capacitor microphone, the C 12 and the D 36 made acoustic history. One of the first customers of the famous C 12 microphone was the BBC in London.

Specifications

AKG C414 XLII Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone Features:
Multi-pattern condenser microphone for a variety of applications
Nine switchable polar patterns
Lock mode disables all controls for live and installation use
Incredible dynamic range of 152dB
3 bass cut filters and pre-attenuation levels
Peak hold LED detects overload peaks
Includes carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and spider-type shock mount
Frequency range: 20hz-20kHz
Pre-attenuation pad: 0dB, -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, switchable
Bass cut filter slope: 12dB/octave at 40Hz and 80Hz; 6dB/octave at 160Hz
Requires 48-volt phantom power
The AKG C414 XLII raises the benchmark for multi-pattern condenser mics!
Tech Specs

Microphone Type	Condenser
Polar Pattern	Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8
Diaphragm Size	1" (25.4mm)
Frequency Response	20Hz-20kHz
Max SPL	140dB (158dB w/18dB Pad)
Output Impedance	200 ohms
Signal to Noise Ratio	88dB (A weighted)
Self Noise	6dB (A weighted)
Low Cut Filter	40Hz, 80Hz (-12dB/octave), 160Hz (-6dB/octave)
Pads	-6dB, -12dB, -18dB
Color	Dark Grey/Gold
Connector	XLR
Weight	0.66 lbs. (Per Mic)
Included Accessories	Stand Mount, Shock Mount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case