AKG C 414 XLS 9-Pattern Condenser Microphone

Accurately capture any source with AKG's most neutral C 414 model. The C 414 XLS updates a legendary large-diaphragm condenser with 9 pickup patterns.

A recording studio staple since the 1970s, the AKG C 414 microphone hardly needs an introduction. This instantly-recognizable large-diaphragm condenser has seen a handful of revisions over the years, as AKG has responded to engineers' demands for ever-greater headroom, sensitivity, and linearity. As an update to the B-ULS, the longest-lived C 414 design, the C 414 XLS is AKG's most neutral-sounding 414 model. The cutting-edge XLS is intended for accurate and detailed sonic reproduction, but it also retains the classic C 414 signature of extended low frequencies, crisp top end, and a gentle low-mids dip that rounds off the harsh edges of voices or instruments. Holding up its predecessors' reputation as a go-to mic for piano, drum overheads, classical ensembles, vocals and much more, the C 414 XLS adds unmatched versatility with an impressive nine pickup patterns.

Introducing the Nine-Pattern C 414

A multi-pattern microphone allows you to dial in a particular sound right at its source. If you're going for a natural character, choose a wider pattern; for a more direct, "in-your-face" quality, lean toward the hypercardioid pattern. The XLS' rocking switch rotates through omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, bidirectional figure-8, and four intermediate settings for a total of nine patterns, for more flexibility than typical 3-to-5-pattern mics. With the C 414 XLS, you can always go a little narrower to add a heightened sense of reality or eliminate bleed from read more surrounding sources when recording an ensemble. Plus, the plethora of pickup patterns on the C 414 XLS makes it possible to place multiple mics in X-Y stereo, middle/side setups, ORTF pairs, Blumlein pairs, or even a Decca Tree configuration.

LEDs Display Pickup Pattern and Switch Settings

When you connect your C 414 XLS to phantom power, you'll see LEDs illuminate in green as you select your pickup pattern. If phantom power is interrupted, the C 414 XLS keeps its last pickup pattern in memory, so your mic will power on to the exact setting you left it -- which is especially useful if you have your XLS mics hanging in hard-to-reach spots over a choir or a large drum kit. Once you've made your pickup pattern selection, lock it in by holding the switch for three seconds to prevent bumping during handling. The LED lights provide quick visual confirmation for your settings. And with an eye toward visual confirmation, this update to the classic C 414 design has a distinctive silver grill on the front and a black grill on the back, so you can tell which way your 414 is facing from across the studio.

Pads and Filters: Dynamic Range to Spare

Flip the mic around to find the LEDs and rocking switches for the -6/-12/-18 dB pad and 40, 80, or 160 Hz bass roll-off filter, two of the most useful features on the C 414 XLS. Padded down to -18 dB, this mic can now handle a sound pressure level of an incredible 158 dB. But since you probably won't be making location recordings of space shuttle launches anytime soon, you'll be glad to know that the C 414 XLS is well-equipped to record much quieter sources, thanks to its transformerless design and internal capsule suspension system resulting in extremely low self-noise of 6 dB-A. The XLS model also introduces a peak hold function: if the output level of the microphone approaches its overload limit, the polar pattern LEDs will light up in red for about three seconds -- alerting you to engage the mic's pre-attenuation pad (or to perhaps ask that overzealous trumpet player to step back from the mic a few inches.)

See how versatile the AKG C414 XLS is in the studio:


Features:

- The most neutral and accurate C 414 model available, well-suited to nearly any source
- Capsule design based on the time-honored C 414 B-ULS
- 9 pickup patterns provide unmatched versatility
- 4-position bass roll-off filter
- 4-position pre-attenuation pad for handling up to 158 dB SPL
- Microphone "remembers" its pattern, filter and pad settings when phantom power is interrupted
- Lock mode disables switches to prevent bumping during handling
- Peak Hold LEDs illuminate red when the mic output is within 2 dB of overloading
- Transformerless design and suspended capsule for extremely low noise floor of 6 dB
- Includes AKG pop filter, foam windscreen, spider-suspension shock mount, and foam-lined aluminum flight case

A Refinement to a Legend

With its legendary stature as one of the most universal, versatile large-diaphragm condensers of the past four decades, the C 414 adds formidable flexibility with nine pickup patterns in the C 414 XLS model. If you don't already own one or more of these classic microphones, now is the time to round out your collection with AKG's updated version of the legendary C 414.
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- Polar pattern: omnidirectional, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, figure eight and 4 intermediate settings
- Frequency range: 20 to 20, 000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa (-34 dBV) +/- 0.5 dB
- Max. SPL: 200/400/800/1600 Pa = 140/146/152/158 dB (0/-6/-12/-18 dB) for 0.5% THD
- Equivalent noise level: 6 dB-A (0 dB preattenuation) (IEC 60268-4)
- Signal/noise ratio: 88 dB
- Pre-attenuation pad: 0 dB, -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: 48V phantom power to DIN/IEC
- Powering: approximately 4 mA
- 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): Electrostatic transducer (Patent no. AT 395.225, DE 4.103.784, JP 2.815.488)
Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Single
Shipping Weight: 4.25 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 11 x 9 x 5 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): 3059X00050

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 818-920-3212

AKG C 414 XLS 9-Pattern Condenser Mic

AKG's legendary C414 needs no introduction - it is a tool found in most recording studios and has been used on thousands of hit records; it's been on stage with artists of every musical genre and is also used by leading broadcast facilities the world over.

For over 60 years, leading musicians and engineers have used legendary AKG microphones to capture their sound so their audience hears every nuance. The C414 family has been one of the world's most widely-used and respected studio and stage microphones in audio history. AKG has continually set benchmarks for useful features, improved technical specifications and ease of use to answer requests from ever-demanding recording studios, broadcast stations and audio engineers.

The models C414 XLS and C414 XL II offer nine pickup patterns which enable to choose the perfect setting for every application. For live-sound applications and permanent installations all controls can be disabled easily for trouble-free use. A Peak Hold LED displays even shortest overload peaks.

The C414 XLS maintains the sonic character of the legendary C414 B-ULS, the longest-lived C414 model. Engineered for highest linearity and neutral sound, it is the most universal and versatile large-diaphragm microphone for decades. Widely used for accurate, beautifully detailed pickup of any acoustic instrument the C414 XLS combines proven reference quality, leading-edge technology and state-of-the-art components.

The C414 comes complete with carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and spider-type shock mount.

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (3 ratings)
Submitted June 9, 2018 by cool man

"microphone for vocals"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Great microphone!!. I used this to record vocals for my album. In the manual, its recommended to use for back up vocals, however I used it for lead vocals. I just used the recommended settings. Anyway, Its little more linear than 414 XLII version. I was looking for a good mic that was very linear and works great with pre amp/compressors. The AKG 414 XLS is one of the few mics on the market that is close to a linear frequency response for a reasonable price. Comes with a case, pop filter and shock mount. No external power needed as well. Its high quality and works excellent for booth recording. The main characteristic of this mic is that it has a sensitive proximity effect. A vocalist or engineer might have to do a couple of takes to become one with the mic, especially perfectionist. A vocalist or lyricist would have to know how to control there vocals, wind and pronunciations. Once you get the hang of it, its very controllable and cool to use. I would recommend using a compressor and EQ console with this mic before you send it into your DAW. Comes out smooth and rich. Isolates very well in studio booths. So glad zZounds offers payment options with free overnight shipping. Can't beat that!!

Musical Background:

vocalist, composer, engineer

Musical Style:

Hip hop, RnB
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