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AKG C414 XLS  From AKG

Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Nine Switchable Polar Patterns

AKG Microphones

$1,279.00

Retail:  $1,349.00

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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 instruments 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! 

Manufacturer's Description from AKG

The C414 XLS multipattern 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 XLS maintains the sonic character of the legendary C414 B-ULS, the most popular AKG C414 version since 1971. Engineered for highest linearity and neutral sound, it has been the most versatile large-diaphragm microphone for decades.

Engineered for highest linearity and neutral sound
for beautifully detailed recording of vocals and any acoustic instrument

Nine selectable polar patterns
for the perfect setting for every application

Three attenuation levels (-6,-12,-18dB)
for close-up recording or high-output sources of up to 158dB SPL

Three different switchable bass-cut filters
to reduce wind noise, subsonic noise or proximity effect

Overload warning with audio peak hold LED
to detect shortest audio peaks

AKG Microphones

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 XLS Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone Features at a Glance:

  • Omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure eight, and four intermediate pickup patterns
  • Lock Mode disables all controls easily for live and installation use
  • Incredible Dynamic Range of 152 dB
  • Three different bass cut filters and three pre-attenuation levels
  • Peak Hold LED detects even shortest overload peaks
  • Includes carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and spider-type shock mount
  • Frequency range: 20 to 20 000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV) +/- 0.5 dB
  • Max. SPL: 200/400/800/1600 Pa = 140/146/152/158 dB (0/-6/-12/-18 dB) for 0.5% THD
  • Equivalent noise level: 6 dB-A (0 dB preattenuation) (IEC 60268-4)
  • Signal/noise ratio: 88 dB
  • Preattenuation pad: 0 dB, -6 dB, -12 dB, -18 dB, switchable
  • Bass cut filter slope: 12 dB/octave at 40 Hz and 80 Hz; 6 dB/octave at 160 Hz
  • Impedance: <=200 ohms
  • Recommended load impedance: >= 2,200 ohms
  • Powering: approximately 4 mA
  • Connector: 3-pin XLR to IEC
  • Dimensions: 50 x 38 x 160 mm (2.0 x 1.5 x 6.3 in.)
  • Net weight: 300g (10.6oz.)
  • Requires +48V phantom power
  • 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/Silver
    Connector XLR
    Weight 0.66 lbs.
    Included Accessories Stand Mount, Shock Mount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case