AKG C414 XLS Reference Multipattern Condenser Microphone - Stereo Set
Description
AKG C414 XLS Reference Multipattern Condenser Microphone — Stereo Set
The C414 XLS stereo pair brings legendary presence and clarity to your recording rig—a microphone trusted by top studios and session players worldwide for capturing transparent, detailed audio across vocals, instruments, and room ambience. These condensers deliver a slightly forward midrange character that cuts through a mix naturally and sits well with guitars, drums, and vocals alike. Built for durability and control, the intuitive layout—including five switchable polar patterns, attenuation pad, and bass rolloff—gives you the flexibility to nail the tone you're after without fuss.
Audio Performance & Sonic Character
Both units offer a 20–20,000 Hz frequency response with an equivalent noise level of 6 dB-A and 88 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio, delivering clean, transparent capture whether you're recording delicate fingerpicking or punchy drums. The 23 mV/Pa sensitivity gives you excellent output level and dynamic range, handling everything from whisper-quiet acoustics to loud amp cranking with equal finesse.
Versatility & Control
Five switchable polar patterns—cardioid, wide cardioid, figure-eight, hypercardioid, and omnidirectional—let you shape your capture to match the source and your tracking space. A three-position preattenuation pad (−6, −12, −18 dB) and selectable bass cut filter (160, 80, 40 Hz) provide essential tone shaping on the fly, keeping your takes sounding tight without reaching for the EQ later.
Key Features
- Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
- Equivalent noise level: 6 dB-A
- Sensitivity: 23 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 88 dB-A
- Five polar patterns: Cardioid, Wide Cardioid, Figure-Eight, Hypercardioid, Omnidirectional
- Switchable preattenuation pad: −6, −12, −18 dB
- Bass cut filter with three positions: 160 Hz, 80 Hz, 40 Hz
- Balanced XLR, 3-pin male connector
- Phantom power: 44–52 V, 4.5 mA
- Electrical impedance: 200 Ohms
- Includes stereo bar, shock mounts, stand adapters, windscreens, and aluminum carrying case
- Stereo pair with measurement documents
This stereo set delivers the sonic precision and versatility that working musicians and serious home recordists depend on, ready to capture vocals, guitars, drums, and full-band tracking with the uncompromising audio quality your mixes demand.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C414 XLS stereo pair is a legendary dual-condenser system trusted across professional studios for capturing transparent, detailed vocals, instruments, and room ambience with a slightly forward midrange character that sits naturally in live and session mixes. These rugged workhorses offer five switchable polar patterns, built-in attenuation pads, and bass filters—giving you essential tone shaping and mic placement flexibility without external gear. Built for intermediate to professional players and engineers who demand uncompromising audio quality and reliability.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Vocal Recording
- ✓ Orchestral Recording
Not the best pick for
- – Home Recording on a Budget
- – Bedroom Practice
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What polar patterns does the C414 XLS offer?
The C414 XLS includes five switchable polar patterns: cardioid, wide cardioid, figure-eight, hypercardioid, and omnidirectional, allowing you to tailor pickup characteristics to your source and room environment.
Can I use the C414 XLS for both loud and quiet sources?
Yes. The microphone delivers 23 mV/Pa sensitivity with a 6 dB-A equivalent noise floor and 88 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio, making it equally effective on loud drums and subtle fingerpicked guitars without requiring gain staging adjustments.
What controls are included for tone shaping?
The C414 XLS features a three-position preattenuation pad (−6, −12, −18 dB) and a selectable bass cut filter with three positions (160 Hz, 80 Hz, 40 Hz), providing essential EQ without external processing.
What is included in the stereo set?
The stereo set includes a matched pair of C414 XLS microphones, stereo bar, shock mounts, stand adapters, windscreens, aluminum carrying case, and measurement documents for both units.
What is the frequency response and noise specification?
The C414 XLS covers 20–20,000 Hz with a 6 dB-A equivalent noise level and 88 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio, ensuring clean, transparent capture of delicate sources.
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