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AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Studio Grade Professional Large Diaphragm Vocal and Instrument Condenser Microphone with Rugged Aluminum Carrying Case. XLR Connector. Gray with Gold

AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Studio Grade Professional Large Diaphragm Vocal and Instrument Condenser Microphone with Rugged Aluminum Carrying Case. XLR Connector. Gray with Gold

Bottom line: The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Studio Grade Professional Large Diaphragm: Nine polar patterns: cardioid, figure-8, hypercardioid, omni, wide cardioid; main trade-off: neutral voicing adds no flattering color to thin vocal sources.

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Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Nine polar patterns: cardioid, figure-8, hypercardioid, omni, wide cardioid
  • ✓ Low 6 dB-A self-noise keeps quiet acoustic sources clean
  • ✓ Three pad settings (-6/-12/-18 dB) handle loud amps and drums
  • ✓ Bass-cut filters at 160/80/40 Hz control proximity buildup
  • ✓ Peak-hold LED flags overload transients you would otherwise miss

Cons

  • ✗ Neutral voicing adds no flattering color to thin vocal sources
  • ✗ Nine patterns plus pads and filters is a lot to learn
  • ✗ Requires 48V phantom power and a quality preamp
  • ✗ Control lockout is needed to stop stage crew bumping settings

Manufacturer description

The AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS is the multipattern large-diaphragm condenser that has anchored professional vocal booths for decades, and this version ships with a rugged aluminum carrying case and XLR connector. AKG engineered it for linearity and neutral sound, so what hits the preamp is what the room actually gave you: detailed vocals, articulate acoustic guitar, honest drum overheads. Nine selectable polar patterns cover cardioid, figure-of-eight, hypercardioid, omnidirectional, and wide cardioid, letting you retune the capsule to the source instead of moving the mic and hoping. The…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Studio Grade Professional Large Diaphragm… using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the audio & midi category. Compare with similarly-priced alternatives in the audio & midi category before committing. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for audio & midi of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many polar patterns does the AKG C414 XLS have?

Nine selectable polar patterns, including cardioid, figure of eight, hypercardioid, omnidirectional, and wide cardioid, so one microphone covers vocals, acoustic instruments, and room capture.

What is the frequency response and self-noise of the C414 XLS?

AKG lists 20-20,000 Hz audio frequency bandwidth, 6 dB-A equivalent noise level, 23 mV/Pa sensitivity, and 88 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio.

Can the C414 XLS handle loud sources like guitar cabs and drums?

Yes. It has switchable preattenuation pads at -6, -12, and -18 dB, plus bass-cut filters at 160, 80, and 40 Hz to manage low-end buildup on close-miked sources.

Does the AKG C414 XLS come with a case?

Yes, it ships with a rugged aluminum carrying case. The microphone uses a standard XLR connector and is finished in gray with gold accents.

Is the C414 XLS covered by an AKG warranty?

Units sourced from an authorized AKG North American dealer include the official AKG manufacturer warranty, valid for purchases within the United States. Check the product listing for current terms.

Key Features

  • 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 including: Cardioid, Figure of eight, Hypercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Wide Cardioid.
  • Audio frequency bandwidth: 20-20000 Hz. Equivalent noise level: 6 dB-A. Sensitivity: 23 mV/Pa. Signal to Noise: 88 dB-A. Preattenuation Pad: -6; -12; -18 dB. Bass cut filter: 160; 80; 40 Hz. Electrical impedance: 200 Ohms, Recommended load impedance: 2200 Ohms.
  • The peak hold LED allows for monitoring of overload peaks, ensuring optimal signal integrity and clarity. Coupled with the ability to disable all controls for live sound applications, this microphone delivers unparalleled versatility and performance for studios, stages, and installations.
  • With its robust design and high-quality components, the C414 XLS is built to withstand the demands of studio sessions and live performances, ensuring reliability and longevity for professional recording artists and sound engineers.
  • This product is sourced from an authorized AKG North American dealer and includes the official AKG manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty is valid only for products purchased from authorized AKG North American dealers within the United States.

Full Specifications

BrandAKG
ColorC414 XLS Single
Model NameC414 XLS Single
Unit Count1 Count
Model Number3059X00050
Audible Noise18 db
Polar PatternMultipattern
Built-In MediaC414 XLS Microphone
Connector TypeXLR
Item Type NameCondenser Microphone
Item Dimensions11.3 x 3.9 x 5.5 inches
Mfr Part NumberC414 XLS
Number of Items1
Special FeatureNoise Reduction
Antenna LocationSinging, Streaming
Audio Sensitivity158 db
Compatible DevicesAudio Interface
Enclosure MaterialAluminum
Frequency Response20000 hertz
Number of Channels1

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AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Studio Grade Professional Large Diaphragm Vocal and Instrument Condenser Microphone with Rugged Aluminum Carrying Case. XLR Connector. Gray with Gold is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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AKG Pro Audio C414 XLS Studio Grade Professional Large Diaphragm Vocal and Instrument Condenser Microphone with Rugged Aluminum Carrying Case. XLR Connector. Gray with Gold
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