AKG C414 B-XL II 5-Pattern Condenser Microphone

Classic microphone with a distinctive timbre especially designed for recording of solo vocals and solo instruments
With the introduction of the next generation C 414 B-XL models, AKG sets new benchmarks for useful features, improved technical specifications, ease of use and available accessories. All of these improvements are answers to requests from ever-demanding recording studios, broadcast stations and concert engineers, but with the basic sonic character of the legendary C 414 unaltered.

Features:
High sound pressure level capability and wide dynamic range

Completely immune to electrostatic and electro-magnetic interference from digital gear, computer monitors, etc. thanks to solid metal housing and transformer-less output stage

3 switchable bass cut filters and 3 pre-attenuation pads with LEDs for quick visual indication

All switchable components operate in low impedance circuits for ultra-high reliability even in extremely humid conditions

High sensitivity and extremely low self noise

5 switchable polar patterns for placement and application flexibility

2-color LEDs provide quick visual indication of selected polar pattern and output overload

Elastic capsule suspension greatly minimizes structurally-transmitted noise from chassis vibration

H 85 professional shock mount/stand adapter, PF 80 external pop filter and W 414 X external windscreen

Optional R 414 remote control unit (available by the end of 2004) offers full control of all switchable parameters via standard microphone cable and 3-pin XLR-type connector

Absolute Reliability
The solid metal housing and transformer-less output stage combine to make the C 414 B-XL microphones immune to electrical interference from digital equipment, video monitors or from rf from wireless microphone or other communications systems.

5 Polar Patterns
The twin-diaphragm system gives you a choice of five different polar patterns (omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure eight). The diaphragm is made from a special gold-sputtered plastic foil and the gold layer is deposited on the diaphragm only on the outer sides to prevent short circuiting to the back plate if strong blasts of air are applied.

Elastic Capsule Suspension
Structurally transmitted vibrations that interfere and color the sound are almost completely eliminated thanks to a new elastic capsule suspension system.

3 Switchable Pre-Attenuation Levels
Pre-attenuation levels are controlled by changes in the polarization voltage of the capsule and permit increases of 6, 12 or 18 dB in the maximum sound pressure level for close-up recording or for use on high-output sources.

3 switchable Bass Filters
The switchable bass-cut filters reduce sonic coloration and the risk of low frequency distortion. The slope of the 40 and 80 Hz filters is more than 12 dB-per-octave and these are especially useful in combating wind noise or vibrations from stage floors. The 160 Hz filter has a gentler 6 dB-per-octave slope useful in minimizing proximity effect.

Predictable Performance Even in Humid Conditions
To minimize the negative effects of humidity, all switching circuits are located in a sealed low-impedance section to prevent problems. To test the stability of our microphones' performance, they are tested in simulated climatic conditions between -25 degrees Celsius (-13 degrees Farenheit) and +65 degrees Celsius (+149 degrees Farenheit) as well as relative humidity as high as 99% (immediately below point of condensation) above +20 degrees Celsius (+68 degrees Farenheit). The new C 414 B models can handle temperature extremes anywhere and still deliver perfect performance.

Technical Info

Type: 1 in.large-diaphragm pressure gradient microphone

Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure 8

Frequency Range: 20 to 20,000 Hz (see frequency response traces)

Sensitivity: 23 mV/Pa (-33 dBV) - 0.5 dB

Max. SPL: 200/400/800/1600 Pa = 140/146/152/158 dB SPL (0/-6/-12/-18 dB) (for 0.5% THD)

Equivalent Noise Level (CCIR 468-2): 20 dB (0 dB preattenuation)

Equivalent Noise Level: 6 dB-A (0 dB preattenuation) (DIN 45 412, A-weighted)

Signal/Noise Ratio (A-weighted): 88 dB

Preattenuation Pad: -6 dB, -12 dB, -18 dB, switchable

Bass Cut Filter Slope: 12 dB/octave at 40 Hz and 80 Hz; 6 dB/octave at 160 Hz

Impedance: <=200 ohms

Recommended Load Impedance: >= 2,200 ohms

Supply Voltage: 48 V phantom power to DIN/IEC

Current Consumption: approximately 4.5 mA

Dynamic Range: 134 dB minimum

Environment:
Temperature range: -10 degrees to +60 degrees Celsius (14 degrees to 140 degrees Farenheit)
Relative humidity: 95% (+20 degrees Celsius/68 degrees Farenheit), 85% (+60 degrees Celsius/140 degrees Farenheit)

Connector: 3-pin XLR to IEC

Dimensions: 50 x 38 x 160 mm (2.0 x 1.5 x 6.3 in.)

Net Weight: 300 g (10.6 oz.)

Patent(s): AT 395.225, DE 4.103.784, JP 2.815.488, AT 400.910

Standard Accessories: H 85, PF 80, W 414 X, Sound Tool Case