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 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!
From AKG Microphones
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 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
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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
Free 3-Year Warranty
Sound Pure stands behind our products. Free three-year warranty on this item. Coverage exclusions live in Terms & Conditions, Section 27.
Level of support and expertise that simply isn't available at big-box megastores. Read the warranty →
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