Sound Pure's Take
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!
From AKG Microphones
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
- 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
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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
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