AKG C414 XLII Reference Multipattern Condenser Microphone

AKG C414 XLII Reference Multipattern Condenser Microphone

The C414 XLII delivers the sonic character of the legendary AKG C12, offering a slight presence boost and impressive spatial reproduction that capture every nuance of your vocal or instrument with exceptional clarity. Its compact, well-balanced design sits comfortably on any stand, and the switchable controls lock in solid once set—no fiddling required mid-set. This is a workhorse microphone that responds transparently to your playing while adding a subtle harmonic character that cuts through on stage and translates perfectly to recordings.

Sonic Character & Capsule Design

The C414 XLII features a 1" edge-terminated, dual-diaphragm transducer with gold-sputtered diaphragm that captures the presence peak and spatial qualities reminiscent of the classic C12 microphone. The acoustic resistor design creates a slight high-frequency rise at 3 kHz and above, distinguishing it from the C414 XLS and delivering an articulate, detailed response ideal for capturing every detail in your vocal performances and instrument recordings.

Live Performance & Headroom

With a maximum SPL of 140 dB (or 158 dB with -18 dB attenuation) and a signal-to-noise ratio of 88 dB-A, this microphone handles anything you throw at it—from whisper-quiet passages to screaming amplifiers. The switchable attenuation pad (0, -6, -12, -18 dB) and low-cut filter options (0, 40 Hz, 80 Hz, 160 Hz) tame proximity effect, stage vibration, and rumble with precision, while the peak hold LED gives you instant visual confirmation that you're staying clean.

Key Features

• 1" edge-terminated, dual-diaphragm electrostatic transducer with gold-sputtered diaphragm
• Nine selectable polar patterns for flexible placement and application-specific recording
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Maximum SPL: 140 dB (no attenuation) / 158 dB (with -18 dB attenuation)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 88 dB-A with equivalent noise level of 6 dB-A
• Dynamic range: approximately 134 dB (A-weighted)
• Switchable attenuation pad with four positions (0, -6, -12, -18 dB)
• Three switchable low-cut filter settings (0, 40 Hz, 80 Hz, 160 Hz)
• Peak hold LED for visual overload indication
• Requires 48 V phantom power; 200 Ohms electrical impedance
• Compact dimensions: 160 mm height, 50 mm width, 38 mm length; 300g weight
• All controls can be disabled for permanent installations and live-sound applications

The C414 XLII combines pro-grade specs, legendary microphone character, and practical control flexibility—an essential tool for players and collectors who demand transparency, articulation, and rock-solid reliability whether you're cutting a vocal in the studio or capturing the raw energy of a live performance.