Sound Pure's Take

The AKG C314 is a modern studio workhorse that brings the legendary heritage of the C414 XLS into a more accessible, streamlined package. Built around the exact same matched 1-inch edge-terminated capsule found in the C414 XLS, the C314 captures the open top-end extension, detailed mid-range, and flat low-end response that have made AKG dual-diaphragm condensers an industry standard for decades.

By focusing on four core polar patterns (Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omni, and Figure-8) and incorporating practical studio tools—like an ultra-low $8\text{ dB-A}$ noise floor and a body-mounted overload detection LED—the C314 serves as a pristine, multi-pattern condenser for tracking vocals, acoustic guitars, drum overheads, and room ambience without breaking the bank.

From AKG Microphones

The AKG C314 is a multi-pattern, dual-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for professional studio recording and live sound applications. Built upon the heritage of AKG’s legendary C414 series, the C314 utilizes the same hand-selected 1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule found in the C414 XLS, offering engineers access to iconic AKG condenser performance at an accessible price point.

Engineered for maximum versatility across vocal, acoustic instrument, and high-SPL tracking environments, the C314 features four selectable polar patterns: Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure-8. An integrated overload detection LED alerts engineers to peak clipping directly at the capsule, while an onboard $20\text{ dB}$ attenuation pad and switchable low-pass/high-pass filter ($100\text{ Hz}$,$12\text{ dB/octave}$) ensure clean signal capture with minimal self-noise and high dynamic headroom.

Key Features

  • Matched C414 XLS Capsule: Equipped with AKG's renowned 1-inch edge-terminated dual-diaphragm capsule for precise frequency response and wide dynamic range.

  • Four Selectable Polar Patterns: Easily switch between Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure-8 for tailored directional capture and ambient control.

  • Overload Detection LED: An integrated LED ring on the mic body glows red when clipping transients occur, providing instant feedback for gain staging adjustments.

  • Switchable $20\text{ dB}$ Attenuation Pad: Increases maximum SPL handling up to $155\text{ dB}$, allowing high-volume tracking of drum overheads, brass, and guitar cabinets without distortion.

  • Integrated Bass-Cut Filter: Switchable $100\text{ Hz}$ high-pass filter ($12\text{ dB/octave}$) eliminates low-frequency rumble, wind noise, and proximity effect.

  • Ultra-Low Self-Noise Architecture: Advanced circuitry delivers an extremely low noise floor ($8\text{ dB-A}$), capturing delicate acoustic nuances with pristine clarity.

Capsule Type
1-inch Dual-Diaphragm Condenser (C414 XLS-derived)
Polar Patterns
Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8
Frequency Range
$20\text{ Hz to } 20,000\text{ Hz}$
Sensitivity
$20\text{ mV/Pa}$ ($-34\text{ dBV}$)
Equivalent Noise Level
$8\text{ dB-A}$
Maximum SPL
$135\text{ dB SPL}$ ($155\text{ dB SPL}$ with pad engaged, for $0.5\%$ THD)
Pre-Attenuation Pad
$0\text{ dB}$,$-20\text{ dB}$
Bass-Cut Filter
Flat,$100\text{ Hz}$ ($12\text{ dB/octave}$)
Electrical Impedance
$\le 200\ \Omega$
Recommended Load Impedance
$\ge 1000\ \Omega$
Phantom Powering
$44\text{V to } 52\text{V}$ (DIN 45596)
Dimensions
$160\text{ mm} \times 55\text{ mm} \times 43\text{ mm}$ ($6.3" \times 2.2" \times 1.7"$)
Weight
$300\text{ g}$ ($10.58\text{ oz}$)
Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.

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