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.

$1,319.00

  • 18 x  
  • 12 x  
    $109.92
  • 8 x  
    $164.88
Overall User Ratings (based on 3 ratings)
  • Overall:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Sound:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Features:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Ease of Use:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Quality:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Value:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Manufacturer Support:
    5 out of 5 stars
  • The Wow Factor:
    5 out of 5 stars
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(3) (see rating details)
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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Submitted December 16, 2023 by David H in San Diego, CA

"C414XLS, the studio workhorse"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
A supremely useful studio legend and all-around recording workhouse.
Sound
The C414XLS has a mostly flat frequency response for most of its polar patterns. Proper mic placement and room treatment will be paramount to getting the most out of it. It’s not over-bright, as I find its golden brother to be, and is endlessly useable for a wide variety of studio work. If you can afford a matched pair these are unrivaled drum overhead/room mics. These handle individual instruments and ensemble recording exceptionally well.It’s not advertised as a vocal mic but I prefer it to the XLII (and a few German mics) for this purpose.
Features
It has 9 selectable polar patterns, three pads, and a three stage hpf. A studio Swiss Army knife.
Ease of Use
Set your preferred polar pattern, set your desired pad and hpf, be critical about distance to source and spot in the room and hit record. In a properly treated room with precise placement you will get excellent results.
Quality
It is a vintage design that has gone through many useful upgrades. I also own previous versions and this design seems to have the flattest character of them all. Feels expensive in the hand.
Value
This is irreplaceable in my studio. The nine polar patterns and detailed, flat pickup makes it supremely useful. If I could only have one microphone, it would be this one.
Manufacturer Support
I have never had to contact AKG because I’ve never had an issue with any of their products. I think I own six AKG microphones and a few headphones, so 8/8 on qc.
The Wow Factor
It’s a legend for a reason. I have many years with these so the feeling I have is that I trust them. I know when I hit record it will give me what I need.

Musical Background:

Frontman, guitarist, singer/songwriter/producer/engineer gear geek and all-around musical nerd

Musical Style:

I write and produce music in all styles for myself and others
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