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
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Matched C414 XLS Capsule: Equipped with AKG's renowned 1-inch edge-terminated dual-diaphragm capsule for precise frequency response and wide dynamic range.
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Four Selectable Polar Patterns: Easily switch between Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure-8 for tailored directional capture and ambient control.
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Overload Detection LED: An integrated LED ring on the mic body glows red when clipping transients occur, providing instant feedback for gain staging adjustments.
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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.
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Integrated Bass-Cut Filter: Switchable $100\text{ Hz}$ high-pass filter ($12\text{ dB/octave}$) eliminates low-frequency rumble, wind noise, and proximity effect.
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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
- $300\text{ g}$ ($10.58\text{ oz}$)
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