AKG C314 Professional Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Description
AKG C314 Professional Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
The AKG C314 is a compact yet sonically sophisticated condenser microphone that captures the true voice of your guitar, vocals, and ensemble with transparent, natural sound. Its 1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule and selectable polar patterns let you dial in the exact character you need—whether you're tracking fingerstyle acoustics, miking a cabinet in the studio, capturing room ambience, or recording a full band. Built with professional-grade construction and powered by phantom voltage, this microphone delivers detailed, fatigue-free recordings with excellent off-axis rejection, making it a gigging and session player's workhorse.
Design & Build
Weighing just 300 grams and measuring 160 mm in length, the C314 stays lightweight and portable for touring musicians without sacrificing ruggedness. The all-metal, transparent double-mesh grille protects the capsule while allowing sound to pass freely, and the balanced XLR 3-pin output connects reliably to any standard audio interface, mixer, or live console—no surprises on stage or in the studio.
Audio Performance
This microphone delivers an 86 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio and exceptionally low 8 dB-A equivalent noise level, so your performances stay clean and articulate even in detailed recording sessions. The –20 dB preattenuation pad handles aggressive sources without breaking up, while the 100 Hz bass-cut filter (12 dB/octave) tames proximity effect and stage rumble on the fly. The 20–20,000 Hz frequency bandwidth captures the full sonic spectrum with accuracy, from the snap of a snare to the warmth of your tone.
Key Features
- Four selectable polar patterns: Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure of Eight
- 1-inch dual-diaphragm condenser capsule
- Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 86 dB-A
- Equivalent Noise Level: 8 dB-A
- –20 dB preattenuation pad for handling loud sources
- 100 Hz bass-cut filter with 12 dB/octave slope
- Balanced XLR male 3-pin connector
- All-metal transparent double-mesh grille
- Electrical impedance: 200 Ohms
- Phantom power: 44–52 V at 3 mA
The C314 combines technical precision with real-world versatility—a dependable choice for recording rigs and live setups that demand accuracy and transparency night after night.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C314 is a compact, professional-grade condenser microphone with four selectable polar patterns and a transparent, detailed sound ideal for studio vocals, acoustic instruments, and room recordings. Built for intermediate to advanced engineers who need reliable, low-noise performance in controlled environments without the bulk of larger condensers. Choose it for its versatile polar patterns, built-in pad and bass filter, and fatigue-free tone that captures every nuance without coloration.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Home Recording
- ✓ Vocal Recording
- ✓ Acoustic Instrument Recording
Not the best pick for
- – Live Performance
- – High-SPL Sources Without Pad
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What polar patterns does the C314 offer?
The C314 provides four selectable patterns: cardioid, supercardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight, allowing you to adapt rejection and pickup to different recording scenarios without changing microphones.
Is this microphone suitable for recording loud sources?
The C314 includes a –20 dB preattenuation pad that lets you handle louder sources without distortion, though it is designed primarily for controlled studio and home-recording environments rather than high-SPL live or harsh conditions.
What is included in the box?
The C314 comes with the microphone, all-metal double-mesh grille, and balanced XLR male 3-pin connector; you will need phantom power (44–52 V) from your interface or mixer to operate it.
How does the C314 compare to the AT2020 and Rode NT1-A?
The C314 offers four polar patterns versus the fixed cardioid of those models, plus a built-in pad and bass filter for more on-the-fly control; its 8 dB-A noise floor matches the NT1-A and is slightly lower than the AT2020, and its compact size suits tight studio setups.
What is the noise level, and is it quiet enough for detailed recording?
The C314 delivers an 8 dB-A equivalent noise level and 86 dB-A SNR, making it excellent for capturing quiet vocals, delicate acoustic instruments, and ambient textures in controlled recording spaces without audible hiss.