AKG C414-XLS Microphone Review
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Austrian acoustics engineering and manufacturing company AKG has been in the business since 1947, and has produced dozens of microphones that have changed the landscape of recording forever. One of these mics is the AKG C414, an all-purpose mic released in 1971 that quickly became a popular feature in many studios thanks to its clear sound quality and excellent frequency extension.
The AKG C414 has had several iterations over the years, including the AKG C414 XLII, AKG C414 XLS, AKG C414 B ULS, AKG C414 EB, and AKG C414B XLS, but the capsule and sound quality has largely remained the same. Thanks to its solid construction, incredible versatility, and numerous settings and tools, the AKG C414 line has become an industry standard. Check out why in this AKG C414 review below.
About the AKG C414-XLS Microphone
|
Polar Pattern |
Cardioid, Figure-of-eight, Hypercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Wide Cardioid |
|
Frequency Range |
20 Hz – 20 kHz |
|
Sensitivity |
23 mV/Pa |
|
Electrical Impedance |
200 Ohms |
|
Signal to Noise Ratio |
88 db(A) |
|
Preattenuation Pad |
-6 dB, -12 dB, -18 dB |
The AKG 414 XLS Multi-Pattern Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone has become one of the staples of the audio industry. It was designed to have a sound quality and character as close as possible to the vintage AKG C414 B-ULS, which is well known in the industry for being the reference microphone for almost all comparative microphone tests, as well as being one of the most used condenser microphones in the world.
The C414 XLS has impressive versatility, making it a de facto part of every professional sound engineer’s equipment. It’s been engineered for the highest linearity and neutral sound, calling back to the old stalwarts in the C414 line, while also introducing new features. The initial AKG C414 had five available polar patterns, which cemented its place as one of the most versatile large condenser mics available. The AKG C414 XLS takes that further by introducing four more polar patterns for a total of 9, far and beyond what other microphones are capable of.
Besides its flexibility, the C414 XLS also has an incredibly low noise floor, as well as a 152 dB dynamic range. This range makes this microphone the ideal partner for any recording environment or sound source, whether you’re working with live vocals or heavy electric guitars. It also has extra features like a locking mode you can use for live sound situations, and a “Peak Hold” LED displaying overload peaks.
Benefits of the AKG C414 XLS Microphone
The AKG C414 microphone range is known for its transparent sound and accurate reproduction, making it ideal for acoustic guitars, drums, string instruments, and more. The XLS in particular has the range’s flattest linearity, suitable for any recording situation but especially when you want to capture a natural sound. And since the AKG C414 frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 20000 Hz, you can be sure that your mic can hear and reproduce anything from the gentlest voice to the heaviest drum solo.
Versatility Like Never Before
The AKG C414 line has always pushed the limits on what a single large diaphragm condenser mic can do. Thanks to its legacy of multiple polar patterns, users are able to employ the C414 in a variety of different recording situations. From solos to live performances to intimate interviews, the C414’s multiple pickup patterns allow for flexibility of use that not many microphones can say they have. The AKG C414 XLS takes that even further.
Not only does this versatile large diaphragm microphone offer the cardioid, hyper-cardioid, figure-of-eight, omnidirectional, and wide cardioid options of its predecessors, but it also allows you to “blend” two modes together through intermediate modes in-between settings. This makes for a total of nine selectable polar patterns, far and beyond anything other mics are offering.
More Control
User control is the name of the game when it comes to the C414, and it plays its cards admirably. While most mics may feature one volume pad, the C414 features no less than three. Engaging any of the settings at -6 dB, -12 dB, and -18 dB will lower the output by the specified amount, allowing you to detect the shortest audio peaks and avoid overloads when recording louder instruments like drums, guitar cabinets, and brass instruments.
Pros and Cons of the AKG C414 XLS Microphone
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Extremely versatile ✔ Perfect for instruments ✔ Low noise hold | ✘ Expensive ✘ Can be difficult for beginners |
What People Are Saying
The AKG C414 line is an industry standard for a reason. Thanks to its quality sound and versatility, the line has remained a popular element in professional and amateur studio setups around the world. It’s a fantastic, natural-sounding mic that is an asset to any professional or home studio. For people on the lookout for their next condenser, this one’s a must-have.
“I should have bought this mic years ago. It pretty much cured most of my problems recording acoustic guitar and vocals. I have several mics which are all good mics, but there is something really special about this particular mic. Price held me back in the past. I will not make this mistake again. Worth every penny!”
Reviewer – harry from sweetwater
Where to Buy the AKG C414 XLS Microphone
Upholding a long tradition of excellent mics, the AKG C414-XLS is AKG’s latest in top-of-the-line condenser technology. Whether you’re recording a double bass, percussion, or drums, the XLS’ transparency, and wide frequency response will make it an indispensable part of your studio. Find the best deals for the AKG C414-XLS Microphone here.
AKG C414-XLS
The AKG C414-XLS is an incredibly flexible microphone, offering exceptional versatility for various recording applications. It particularly shines when capturing the intricate details of musical instruments, producing stunning and accurate results.
Moreover, it boasts a remarkably low noise floor, maintaining pristine audio quality even in the most demanding recording scenarios. With the AKG C414-XLS, you have a reliable and versatile tool that consistently delivers exemplary performance.
