AKG C414 Studio Condensor Microphone

The AKG C414 is a one-inch large diaphragm condenser microphone family widely used in professional studio, broadcast, and stage applications, recognised for its versatility, reliability, and long-standing role in recording history.

AKG C414 Studio Condensor Microphone Details

The current AKG C414 family consists of the AKG C414 XLS and AKG C414 XLII large diaphragm pressure-gradient microphones. Both models feature AKG’s one-inch edge-terminated large diaphragm capsule and offer nine selectable polar patterns, allowing precise optimisation for a wide range of recording and live sound applications.

High sensitivity, extremely low self noise, and a wide dynamic range enable accurate capture of everything from delicate acoustic instruments to high-level sound sources. Three switchable bass cut filters and three selectable pre-attenuation levels provide further control, making the microphones suitable for close-miked vocals, solo instruments, ensemble recording, and drum overhead use.

All controls can be locked for secure live operation, while a peak hold LED displays even the shortest overload peaks. The microphones are designed for high reliability, with low-impedance switching circuits and immunity to electrostatic and electromagnetic interference, ensuring stable operation even in humid conditions.

Each microphone is supplied with a carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and spider-type shock mount, and both models are also available as matched stereo sets.

AKG C414 Studio Condensor Microphone Heritage

  • 1971 onwards

    designated as C414 Comb, C414 EB

    Early transformer-coupled large diaphragm condenser design, with revisions introduced in the C414 EB to refine performance and reliability.

    The AKG C414 was first introduced in 1971 as the AKG C414 Comb, establishing the foundation of the C414 microphone family. In 1976, the C414 EB replaced the original model and became firmly established as a professional studio standard, widely adopted across recording, broadcast, and live sound applications.

Specifications

Released in: 1971
Made in: Austria
  • Type: One inch large diaphragm pressure gradient microphone
  • Polar Patterns: Nine selectable
  • Open-Circuit Sensitivity: 23 mV/Pa (-33 dBV ±0.5 dB)
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz
  • Impedance: ≤200Ω
  • Recommended Load Impedance: ≥2200Ω
  • Bass Cut Filters: 12dB per octave at 40Hz and 80Hz, 6dB per octave at 160Hz
  • Pre-Attenuation Pads: -6dB, -12dB, -18dB selectable
  • Equivalent Noise Level: 20dB (IEC 60268-4)
  • Equivalent Noise Level A-Weighted: 6dB-A
  • Signal To Noise Ratio: 88dB A-weighted
  • Maximum SPL: 140dB to 158dB SPL depending on pre-attenuation
  • Dynamic Range: 134dB minimum
  • Maximum Output Level: 5V rms (+14dBV)
  • Powering: 48V phantom power to IEC 61938
  • Current Consumption: Approximately 4.5mA
  • Connector: 3-pin XLR
  • Dimensions: 160mm x 50mm x 38mm
  • Weight: 300g
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AKG C414 Studio Condensor Microphone Used on these Recordings

Life’s Been Good

Joe Walsh

Surrender

Cheap Trick

Oliver’s Army

Elvis Costello

Reggatta De Blanc

The Police

Ride Like the Wind

Christopher Cross

Jessie’s Girl

Rick Sprigfield

Tricycle

Flim & The BBs

No Jacket Required

Phil Collins

Money For Nothing

Dire Straits

Big World

Joe Jackson

Nothing Compares 2U

Sinead O’Connor

The Rembrandts

The Rembrandts

Woodface

Crowded House

Nevermind

Nirvana

Boys For Pele

Tori Amos

After Ours

Ann Hampton Callaway

This Love

Maroon 5

I/O

Peter Gabriel

Further Reading on the AKG C414 Studio Condensor Microphone

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The details provided above are drawn from historical documents like advertising brochures or user manuals. They’re shared without bias or review. This info is given solely for your consideration, helping you gauge its usefulness to you.

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