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AKG C414 XLII Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone with 9 Switchable Polar Patterns
AKG C414 XLII Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone image 1
AKG C414 XLII Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone image 1
$1,099.00
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AKG C414 XLII Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
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Discover the Power of a Reinvented Classic

The AKG C414 multi-pattern condenser microphone needs no introduction. Because of its ability to handle many different sources, it's been used in some of the world's leading broadcast facilities, recording studios, and performance stages. AKG has upped the game with the addition of their C414 XLII, improving the C414's already legendary adaptability. With its nine polar patterns, leading-edge technology, state-of-the-art components, and reference-quality results, the AKG C414 XLII condenser microphone ushers in a new standard in microphone versatility.

Sonic character of the legendary AKG C12

The C414 XLII has been improved by offering a slight presence boost and by providing the spatial reproduction capability of the legendary AKG C12 microphone. This characteristic response and spatial detailing makes lead vocals and solo instruments stand out, even in a dense mix. This signature upfront sound is also excellent for distant miking applications, making the C414 XLII ideal for classical music or drum ambience miking.

Nine polar patterns for multiple applications

This multi-pattern workhorse mic sounds amazing on just about anything. The C414 XLII offers nine pickup patterns, which enable you to choose the perfect setting for every application. In addition to the five patterns traditionally offered by the C414 (omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure-8), you also get four intermediate settings that let you dial in the best in-between pattern to suit your application and environment.

Great control features give you great flexibility

If the nine polar patterns aren't enough to get the sound you need, the C414 XLII offers a bevy of other control options to fine-tune the microphone to your needs. The C414 XLII offers three different bass cut filters and three switchable pre-attenuation pads at -6dB, -12dB, and -18dB. The mic also carries a clipping LED right on the face, so you know if you're overloading it. And all the controls can easily be disabled for live sound applications.

AKG C414 XLII Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone Features:

  • Multi-pattern condenser microphone for a variety of applications
  • 9 switchable polar patterns
  • Lock mode disables all controls for live and installation use
  • Incredible dynamic range of 152dB
  • 3 bass cut filters and pre-attenuation levels
  • Peak hold LED detects overload peaks
  • Includes carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and spider-type shockmount
  • Frequency range: 20hz-20kHz
  • Pre-attenuation pad: 0dB, -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, switchable
  • Bass cut filter slope: 12dB/octave at 40Hz and 80Hz; 6dB/octave at 160Hz
  • Requires 48-volt phantom power

Additional Media

Studio Microphone Buying Guide
Want to hear this mic in action? Listen to high quality samples in our vocal mic shootout!

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 SPL (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 Gray/Gold
  • Connector: XLR
  • Power Source: 48V phantom power
  • Weight: 0.66 lbs.
  • Included Accessories: Stand Mount, Shock Mount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case
  • Manufacturer Part Number: 3059X00060

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Customer Reviews

Rated 5/5
Based on 34 reviews
Write your review
Rated 5/5

AKG C414 XLII

Outstanding gear, accurate sound, excellent for home and professional studios, warm and crystal clear voice and instrument recordings, highly recommended!!!
Music background: +35Y Active singer and musician
Rated 5/5

Why did I wait so long?!!!

I’ve been getting decent results using less expensive large diaphragm condensers and decided to ‘up my game’ with a C414xl II. I’m truly amazed at how much of a difference these mics make!!! I didn’t realize how many options switchable patterns offer and am really enjoying experimenting with different set-ups. One thing that I DIDN’T expect was how much easier editing, mixing and mastering has become since using these. The clarity that these mics provide makes any post-recording processing simple and easy to experiment with. If you’re considering buying these, don’t make the same mistake I did by waiting so long.
Music background: Professional Percussionist/Composer
Rated 5/5

Straight workhorse

I've had this microphone for about three years now and after using it on multiple mobile gigs and studio sessions I gotta say, this microphone is a beast. It is consistent with the capture of your source. Very natural sounding, I achieve modern sounding mixes with my clients. Crisp is the common word used by them to describe how good they sound through this, usually after they have a conversation with me about their favorite mics and how this is how professional recordings should sound. Great on male vox amazing on female vox. Great mic for the locker.
Music background: Audio engineer
Rated 5/5

Legendary for a reason

I've used several mics over the years, but have never had one that was "expensive." I use an SMB7 at times, and it's in a category by itself really. It's the right mic for many singers. I recently bought an Audio Technica 2020 condenser mic and have used it for multiple recordings. I think it's the best mic you can get for around $... I run it through high quality pre-amps and it holds its own. But I've been wondering, if I pay a lot more for a microphone, will I notice it in the mix? The vocals are arguably the most important part of a demo, so I thought, with the heck, I'll get the legendary C414 XL2. ...$$ for a microphone seemed crazy, but I've wasted a lot more on guitars I didn't need. When I hooked it up and sang, it was instantaneous. Hard to describe, but it's just better than what I had been using. The sound is fuller, richer and jumps out of the mix in a subtle but noticeable way. There's a reason professional studios use certain gear. There's a reason they produce better sounding tracks. I'm slowly getting close to the point where my demos sound like I paid a Nashville studio $600 to cut one.
Rated 5/5

Don't wait, get one!!!

As a sax player, I recorded multiple tracks using this mic and all I can say is WOW! this thing is for real, it is helping me shape my own sound tenfold.
Thank you Sweetwater
Music background: professional sax player, writer, piano player.

Sweetwater Advice

Kyle Zillioux

This is my personal favorite mic for acoustic guitars, and I’m repeatedly blown away every time I use it on something new. I can’t think of a situation where I wouldn’t consider using it.

Todd Kitchen

I've spent the last decade recording everything from a basement podcast to a large orchestra, and the one mic I continually return to for almost any project is my AKG C414 XLII. In front of brass instruments or above strings, it reveals nuances of tone with incredible clarity. Used as a pair, it replicates the space and transient detail inside a grand piano as well as over a drum set. I've found it to be truly versatile and dependable for wherever my work takes me.

Kazim Sultan

I’ve been recording for 4 years and engineered at a few big studios including DJ Khaled’s We The Best, and I have to say that the AKG C414 XL2 is absolutely killer on vocals. I love using it as a cardioid with the highest bass rolloff on vocals or cymbals. It’s bright, clear, and present – everything I need in a vocal microphone!

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