AKG C414 XLS

AKG, the professional microphone brand par excellence

Having now become a flagship model in studio microphones , AKG has had a rich creative journey. The quality of its products comes first and has remained maintained since its very first sales.

A remarkable emergence in its sector

Founded in 1947, this Austrian company began producing headphones. But it succeeded in establishing itself further on the market by marketing increasingly innovative condenser microphones. AKG initially distributed its own inventions in various European countries, then gradually reached Latin American countries.

Its products have become the choice of major entities like the BBC and many artists such as Frank Sinatra and Falco. In 1980, AKG equipment also demonstrated great success at the Moscow Olympic Games. The brand continues to conquer other countries with the creation of new, even more original headphones and microphones .

Audio-Technica AT2020 condenser microphone . This guide gives you a complete test of this condenser microphone and an opinion on the quality of this microphone.

The arrival of the C414 series

AKG begins production of its first cardioid condenser microphone with the D12 model. About ten years later, the company released the D202 and D224 which were the first two-way cardioid microphones.

The AKG C414 XLS model was released in 1971 and immediately became one of the most popular microphones. It is an evolution of the AKG C414 B-ULS, and the previous model the C414 XLII .

The two microphones have an identical sonic character , but the more recent one incorporates greater linearity. Several adaptations and technological innovations have also been included to allow it optimal and versatile function.

Technical characteristics of the AKG C414 XLS

• 9 different directivities (5 main and 4 intermediate)
• Transformerless XLR output circuit
• Sensitivity: 23 mV/Pa (-33 dBV ± 0.5 dB)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 KHz
• Electrical impedance: ≤ 200 Ohms
• Recommended load impedance: ≥ 2200 Ohms
• Dynamic range: 134 to 140 dB (SPL)
• Signal to noise ratio: 88 dB for 1 Pa (weighted value)
• External supply voltage: 48V phantom power

• Consumption: approximately 4.5 mA
• Tolerated climatic conditions: Temperature: -10°C +60°C / Relative humidity: 95% (+20°C), 85% (+60°C)
• Connector Type XLR-3
• Switchable low cut filter: 40, 80 or 160 Hz
• 3-position attenuator: -6 dB, -12 dB and -18 dB
• Dimensions: 50 × 38 × 150 mm; Net weight: 300g
• “Locked” mode
• Status LED
• Color: dark gray / silver

The accessories

• Luxurious carrying case
• SA 60 micro clamp
• Elastic suspension for the H 85 microphone
• PF 80 pop filter
• Windscreen or foam W 414X
• Individual frequency curve with serial number and date code

A large diaphragm condenser microphone

AKG C414 XLS model combines all the benefits sought in a professional condenser microphone . It even wants to go beyond the theoretical limits of its category.

The sensitivity of the AKG C414 XLS

This type of microphone perceives reduced background noise thanks to its very high sensitivity . It allows obtaining a good signal/noise ratio. Its large membrane provides a stronger signal and its amplifier generates the same noise.

In other words, this condenser microphone accurately picks up the sound source in front of the mic. And it blocks out surrounding sounds.

Its more extended capsule is oriented towards the side of the microphone, that is to say it is placed vertically. It has excellent low frequency response. With this equipment, the breath will be well hidden and will not appear in your various recordings .

A “larger than life” rendering

If you want to achieve a beautiful sound recording that goes a little beyond the quality of the natural voice, the AKG C414 XLS will satisfy you . It adapts perfectly to a large variation in frequencies.

Unlike a dynamic mic, most large diaphragm condenser microphones are defined as unsuitable for treble.

However, this model responds without any difficulty to this type of sound.

Nine switchable polar patterns for more choice

Although the AKG C214 model is more recent, it has a single cardioid polar pattern while the AKG C414 XLS offers 9 choices. It brings together 5 basic polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, hypercardioid, hypocardioid and figure 8 as well as 4 intermediates. This condenser microphone therefore allows better adaptation to many sound environments .

The AKG C414 XLS incorporates a dual diaphragm designed to accommodate a wide variety of directivities. It is made up of an on-board electronic circuit, necessary for switching .

The large diaphragm microphone remains secure with the incorporation of a gold-sputtered synthetic diaphragm on one side. Thus, no risk of short circuit will occur with the counter electrode, despite high acoustic pressure.

You can easily select the directivity that suits you thanks to a switch placed on the microphone. It also consists of an LED display to identify your choice.

A microphone offering maximum linearity

Professionals have appreciated the AKG C414 XLS for many years, particularly for its great linearity. Thanks to this quality, this condenser microphone can really be used to perfectly capture and reproduce acoustic instruments.

It also allows recording of voice-overs and dynamic instruments.

Resulting from an experience sought between previous models, this equipment has the ideal electronic and acoustic elements for sound recording .

It also incorporates innovative construction technology. This condenser microphone is part of the ultra-precise ranges which mark the identity of the AKG 414. It offers a neutral sound which manages to satisfy professional requirements .

AKG C414 XLS: versatile sound equipment

Its variable directivity allows it to be adjustable according to any sound pressure, whatever the sound environment and the characteristics of the location.

The right microphone in the recording studio

This condenser microphone corresponds to the voice recordings for its various recordings. The microphone sensitivity can be changed easily using the 3-position attenuator found on the back.

Unlike the dynamic microphone and the USB microphone, its high precision makes it possible to detect any playing or singing anomalies . To warm up your vocals with this microphone, you could use an integrated preamplifier.

The C414 XLS model from the AKG brand is a must-have piece in your home studio. Its hypercardio directivity will be essential for instruments such as acoustic guitar and snare drum.

It offers optimal sound quality, soft and balanced . This microphone brings out the bass and the precision of the treble without making it aggressive.

An application on stage

If the AKG brand is particularly known for its studio microphones, the AKG C414 XLS constitutes an interesting alternative for professional applications on stage. Adjusting its cardioid directivity will provide remarkable sound quality live.

The presence of the flexible low-end cut-off and the attenuation circuit ensures control of the equipment. These points facilitate the intervention without causing false manipulations. The “locked” mode is also very useful for preventing accidental switching.

Note : You can also check out our best ribbon microphones . This guide suggests the best ribbon microphones to choose for your professional recording studio.

Why buy an AKG C414 XLS microphone?

The sound quality and design of this device are highly appreciated by its owners.

Modern design

Its metal case and sober color give it a touch of elegance . The adjustment devices and the LED electrical signal also give an innovative aspect to this condenser microphone.

It combines both modernity and ease of use to meet the strict needs of experts. It is supplied with a luxurious case for storage and transport.

A complete tool

The AKG C414 XLS condenser microphone has many adjustable features. Its design includes good safety when handling the material. It brings together the maximum adaptation in a single microphone.

A robust microphone

The assembly of the microphone and its switches offers better resistance to humidity. Its metallic material forms ultimate protection to limit the penetration of small particles inside . High frequency noise from, for example, a voice transmitter does not penetrate the microphone.

The technical characteristics of the AKG C414 XLS also indicate real endurance in the face of different temperature variations. Electrostatic and electromagnetic interference have a weak effect on the microphone.

Our opinion on the AKG C414 XLS: the must-have for every sound recorder and musician

The key words that I would attribute to this condenser microphone will be modernity and versatility. The C414 XLS encompasses all the requirements for optimal sound quality. It cuts out handling noise and focuses on the main sound source.

Thanks to its 9 switchable directivities, this versatile microphone can become a vocal microphone, or a device for capturing sound sources coming from instruments such as guitars, piano, percussion, etc.

You can select it as a studio microphone, for podcasting or for radio broadcasting, but also on stage. This AKG condenser microphone also boasts an aesthetic design that every celebrity would appreciate.

Its features will help you improve your music and sound performance. I confirm that this studio microphone will make a worthwhile investment. Its excellent quality/price ratio will allow you to perfect your sound equipment without spending a fortune.

AKG C414 XLS Demo

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