AKG C414 XLII Matched Pair Matched Pair Stereo Set
Description
AKG C414 XLII Matched Pair Stereo Set
The C414 XLII is a precision large-diaphragm condenser built on Swiss engineering that delivers studio-grade transparency and reliability on stage and in the studio. This matched pair captures every detail—from vocal nuance to instrument transients to room character—with the sonic accuracy that has made it the standard for critical stereo recording across decades. The all-metal construction feels robust in hand, while the intuitive pad and filter controls sit within arm's reach during live takes or tracking sessions.
Sonic Performance & Transducer Design
Built on a 1" edge-terminated dual-diaphragm design, the C414 XLII captures exceptional detail with a 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response and a 134 dB dynamic range. The 6 dB-A equivalent noise floor ensures clean captures even at low levels, while maximum SPL ratings from 140 to 158 dB (depending on pad setting) handle everything from whisper-soft vocals to snare cracks and guitar amps without compromise.
Flexibility & Control
Nine polar patterns—omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure eight, and four intermediate settings—adapt to any source or acoustic environment. Three pad settings (-6, -12, -18 dB) and switchable bass-cut filters (40 Hz, 80 Hz, and 160 Hz) provide surgical control over proximity bass and rumble, while the peak hold LED flags even momentary overloads for precise gain staging.
Key Features
- 9 switchable polar patterns: omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure eight, and 4 intermediate settings
- Maximum SPL: 140/146/152/158 dB (at 0/-6/-12/-18 dB pad settings) for 0.5% THD
- Equivalent noise level: 6 dB-A at 0 dB preattenuation (IEC 60268-4)
- Dynamic range: 134 dB; frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- 1" edge-terminated dual-diaphragm transducer
- Three attenuation pad settings: -6, -12, and -18 dB
- Bass-cut filters: 12 dB/octave at 40 Hz and 80 Hz; 6 dB/octave at 160 Hz
- All-metal construction for RF interference rejection
- Peak hold LED for visual overload indication
- Matched pair within 1 dB sensitivity and 1 dB frequency response (300 Hz–8 kHz, cardioid mode)
- Operates on 48V phantom power
- Includes two shockmounts, two windscreens, stereo bar, and aluminum flight case per pair
This matched pair delivers the precision engineering and acoustic flexibility that makes the C414 XLII the go-to choice for players and engineers who demand studio-grade transparency, reliable stereo imaging, and live durability.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | Austria |
Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C414 XLII matched pair is a professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone built for studio sessions, live performance, and home recording with transparent, detailed capture and minimal noise floor. Its nine switchable polar patterns, three pad settings, and bass-cut filters provide surgical control over any source—from delicate vocals to loud instruments and room ambience—making it the versatile workhorse for engineers and performers who demand precision. The robust all-metal construction, 134 dB dynamic range, and matched-pair consistency (within 1 dB sensitivity and frequency response) justify the investment for serious session work and live reinforcement.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Live Performance
- ✓ Home Recording
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the matched pair?
The set includes two AKG C414 XLII microphones matched within 1 dB sensitivity and 1 dB frequency response (300 Hz–8 kHz, cardioid mode), two shockmounts, two windscreens, a stereo bar, and an aluminum flight case for transport and storage.
Can these microphones handle loud sources like drums and guitar amps?
Yes. The C414 XLII delivers maximum SPL ratings from 140 to 158 dB depending on pad setting (-6, -12, -18 dB), so it handles snare cracks, guitar amps, and other high-pressure sources without distortion.
How do the polar patterns and filters help with recording flexibility?
Nine switchable polar patterns (omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure-eight, and four intermediate settings) adapt to different sources and room acoustics, while three bass-cut filters (40 Hz, 80 Hz, 160 Hz) remove proximity bass and rumble for cleaner recordings.
What is the noise floor, and is it suitable for low-level recording?
The equivalent noise level is 6 dB-A at 0 dB preattenuation, which ensures clean recordings even when capturing delicate sources like vocals and acoustic instruments at lower levels.
How does this compare to other professional large-diaphragm condensers?
The C414 XLII competes with microphones like the Neumann U87 AI, Shure KSM141, and Audio-Technica AT4050; it stands out for its nine polar patterns, flexible pad and filter controls, and proven track record across studio, live, and broadcast applications.