AKG
C414 XLII Matched Pair
Best professional grade microphones for versatile studio recording applications.
Experience professional-grade audio with the AKG C414 XLII Matched Pair, a set of condenser microphones designed for studio excellence. These microphones offer nine selectable polar patterns, providing exceptional versatility for any recording scenario. Inspired by the legendary AKG C12, they deliver a subtle presence boost and remarkable spatial reproduction, perfect for capturing intricate audio details. The matched pair ensures precise stereo imaging, making them an ideal choice for high-fidelity vocal and instrument recordings.
$1299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+156%
Above average
Frequency response
2020
/ Hz - kHz
Who it's for
- Professional engineers and musicians needing adaptable, high-fidelity sound capture.
- Audio professionals requiring precise, phase-accurate stereo capture for instruments or ambiance.
- Studio owners and touring professionals seeking reliable, feature-rich, long-term microphone investments.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious home studio users or aspiring engineers with limited funds.
- Home recordists without acoustically treated rooms or quiet recording environments.
- Beginners using basic interfaces or portable recorders lacking phantom power capabilities.
Performance breakdown
Stereo Imaging
Factory-matched capsules provide near-perfect phase coherence for immersive stereo soundscapes.
Versatility
Nine selectable polar patterns adapt effortlessly to any studio recording scenario.
High SPL Handling
Captures loud sources like drums and brass without unwanted signal distortion.
Self-Noise Floor
Extremely quiet circuitry ensures pristine recordings even during delicate, low-volume passages.
Sonic Character
The C12-inspired capsule adds a signature presence boost to vocal tracks.
Build Integrity
Rugged construction stands up to the demands of professional daily use.
Key Specs
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity
23 mV/Pa
Maximum SPL
158 dB SPL
Output Impedance
200 Ohms
Power Requirements
44 to 52 V Phantom Power
Polar Patterns
Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Hypercardioid
Connectivity
3-Pin XLR Male
Dimensions
2 x 1.5 x 6.3"
Features
- Nine selectable polar patterns for versatile sound capture
- C12-inspired capsule for enhanced presence and spatial reproduction
- Matched pair for consistent stereo imaging
- High SPL capability for loud sound sources
- Wide dynamic range for detailed audio
- Low self-noise for clean recordings
- Transformerless design for interference immunity
- Includes shock mount, case, pop filter, and windscreen
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the C414 XLII Matched Pair for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable versatility. Reviewers frequently highlight its pristine audio capture, noting its ability to deliver detailed and accurate recordings across various instruments and vocals. The microphone's robust build and consistent performance are also strong points, reinforcing its reputation as a professional studio workhorse. Users appreciate its adaptability, making it a go to choice for diverse recording scenarios, from delicate acoustic instruments to powerful drums. This pair is celebrated for its reliable, high fidelity output.
Know before you buy
The XLII is specifically designed with a slight presence boost in the upper frequencies, modeled after the classic AKG C12. This makes it a preferred choice for lead vocals and solo instruments that need to cut through a dense mix.
A matched pair ensures that both microphones have identical sensitivity and frequency response characteristics. This is essential for professional stereo recording techniques, such as X/Y or ORTF, where balanced imaging is critical.
Yes, the C414 XLII can handle sound pressure levels up to 158dB SPL. Combined with the switchable pads, these microphones are more than capable of capturing high-volume sources without distortion.
The filters at 40Hz, 80Hz, and 160Hz allow you to eliminate low-end rumble, proximity effect, or mechanical noise at the source. This helps keep your tracks clean and prevents the need for heavy EQ during the mixing stage.
The transformerless output stage is designed to minimize electromagnetic interference and distortion. It results in a very clean, transparent signal path that accurately reproduces the nuances of the source audio.
The set comes with two shock mounts, two windscreens, and two pop filters, all housed in a durable road case. It provides everything necessary to protect and mount the microphones for immediate studio use.
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$1299