AKG C414 XLII Review
Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
- For Voice, Instruments, Drums & Cabs
- Nine Selectable Polar Patterns
- Voicing Similar to Legendary C12 Mic
- Completely Immune to EMI and ESI
- Highly Reliable in Humid Conditions
- Switchable Pad at -6, -12, or -18 dB
- Low-Cut Filter at 40, 80, or 160 Hz
- Shockmount Inhibits Vibration Noise
- Windscreen, Pop Filter, and Metal Case
- Operates on 48V Phantom Power
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 18,109 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the AKG C414 XLII. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the AKG C414 XLII. For example, 92% of 3,590 users who have commented on the Value for money of the AKG C414 XLII have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 55 Reviews
Industry Workhorse Earns its Reputation Honestly
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Timothy Taylor on Guitar Center
I bough this mic about a year ago, and can say with all honesty, it has been a standout performer for anything I have put it use on. For acoustic guitar it's clarity, and definition are amazing. You can hear every detail, and yet it is not harsh in any way. The numerous polar patterns allow you to taler the function to suit your needs with no loss of quality or spaciousness. With a good preamp it has a wonderful airy sound much like a u87 or Manley, and it is simply excellent for vocals. Male or female vocals really pop though this, but it DOES require your performance to be spot on. If you are slightly off it will pick it up! It is useful for just about anything in the studio you can think of, including picking up cymbals from overhead. It is one of the best Microphones I own, and I would put it up against the Neumann TLM103 or the Sterling Audio Ocean Way Signature Series mic, as well as the Neumann KMS104. It blows RODE, Sputnik, or lower level Sterlings out of the water. I own or have used in my studio all these mics, so can speak to it with absolute authority. It is durable, rugged, and has launched the careers of many a fabled performer, and for my money is one of the best values going. DO get a top quality heavy stand for use with this Mic. It does pick up whatever is going on in the environment, and mic stand noise can be maddening. I use the ultimate support boom, which retails for $199, and has a solid base, super thick pole and overhead boom. ... More
It Ain't Gold For Nuthin'
AKG C414 XLII Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
This microphone is a godsend. As someone with very specific requirements, this mic delivers..big time. Now, bear in mind that I picked this mic the proper way-by going into B&H's mic room with a tech and testing out a bunch to find the one that suited me. This particular one fit like a glove because of where my voice sits. I have a very broad range, but am not a deep person necessarily. Rather, my middle was what I sought to bring out, and this microphone was THE one out of alllll the various ones tested, ..... There are other functions I haven't even tried yet, since I am a techno idiot and just want a reliable device that works. And this one does.... ... More
Sill harsh in the high end
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Doug on Guitar Center
There are good things and bad things about the original 414's. The good things are this: they have a very even signal response; and you can place them far away from the source and *still* get that even signal response. That even response is a pretty amazing feat for any microphone. 414's are great when set way back like in a mid/side pair for room mic's, for example. The bad thing though is that, in spite of the even response, there is a harshness in the high end, which gets in the way of capturing a more dynamic, ensemble performance. (Like, these aren't the best general room mic's.) I was hoping that, because AKG says these are more like if the 414 had a baby with a C12 -- one of the cleanest mic's ever made -- that they'd lose that harshness. But they sound almost exactly the same as the old 414! They just look fancier. ... More
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Larry S. on Reverb
I own the vintage model of this microphone, the TLII. I've used this mic to record many vocalists. The mic can be the perfect fit. I love it on female vocals, some male voices usually shine on this mic, others do not. Rappers who have detail in their voice can work nicely, acoustic guitar, it's a fantastic room mic for drums. I like it on a 4x12 cab, however, not directly on a speaker cone, I'd have to demonstrate the placement. On the right source it's magic, The capsule is a little different on the XLII...I would not trade my TLII for a brand new XLII but, it's definitely in the same wheelhouse. Definitely not a mic for asinger who has sibilance issues. The mic has a rise around 4K so it's "bright" however, it's not brittle at all. When it works, it's magic. 1073 preamp is my favorite with this mic when recording vocals, room mic, guitar cabinet. Sometimes, I like the UA M-610 preamp when, recording acoustic guitar with the TLII. If, I'm going for that bright, strummed type of guitar sound, the 610 preamp is my choice, otherwise, stick with a 1073. I enjoy the tone I get using omni pattern on acoustic guitar, with the mic placed beneath the soundhole, mic hanging upside down, aiming upwards at an angle, there is no proximity effect going on so, the tone is more natural. If, all you do is record vocals, this may be the a great mic for you but, it may also not be the mic for you. Most females will love this microphone however, if the voice is already a bit too "bright" this mic is not for you. It's no workhorse however, it can be a great room mic, and believe it or not, I like it for metal guitar, the brightness this mic adds can be, the perfect presence control to accompany lo-mid heavy guitar tracks. $500 is a fantastic price, you cannot go wrong. ... More
Versatile Pro Mic
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Seth L. on Reverb
I went to school for music and recording and enjoyed access to some exceptional gear in those days. But in the years since my interactions with high-end gear have been dramatically reduced. Most of the microphones I've touched in the last decade have been workhorse dynamics or budget condensers. For a good while my best mic was a SE Electronics Z3300a multipattern condenser, and I found it useful enough although I became ultimately unsatisfied with a harsh top-end. Such is the tradeoff with budget-friendly gear. I took a new job recently, one that came with a budget for a new mic. Enter the AKG C414 XLII. This only cost a couple Benjamins more than the Z3300, but here is a truly professional microphone. Build quality, feature selection, and bundled accessories all attest to this, but it's the sound that really matters in the end, right? My ear finds the C414 XLII to be bright but smooth and infinitely useable. I might compare it to the experience of eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant over a reputable chain. The food is good at both joints, but there's more subtlety, more finesse available from the upscale establishement. I'm very pleased to have this mic in my cabinet because it truly is a versatile, professional piece of gear. It may not sound like a U87 or another classic mic, but it's definitely got a character that holds its own. ... More
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Impressive
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Edwin L. on Reverb
I often heard this mic being described as a workhorse and didn't quite understand why until I purchased one. I had several mics primarily for vocals. One was too dark then l purchased another mic with a smoother top end but made my voice sibilant. The AKG C414 XLII was recommended for my voice and I'm glad I purchased it. First of all it comes fully bundled with shock mount, pop filter and carrying case. The mic itself is very easy to use. I've e used it for male and female vocals from pop, hip hop r&b, ballads rock, you name it. It can be used for many applications. It's not the best mic for any of the areas I mentioned but it's still damn good especially for the price. I have a mic worth 3x as much but I can't use for my voice. The C414 is definitely a smart buy. Through out the years I've bought many mics. I started at lower price points and worked my way up. I would advise anyone to skip the other price points and just go straight to the c414. It's a must have mic that is used in many pro studios and rivals mics at higher price points. ... More
Real Precision
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Jason Groucott on Guitar Center
I have been a professional recording engineer for over fifteen years and in every world class studio that I have utilized, undoubtably the AKG 414 series mic has been readily available to me. Able to capture real sound quality with amazing clarity, I can't think of anything I could not use this mic for. Vocals, instruments, percussions, field sound, etc. The AKG C 414 XL II follows suit. In tradition with setting new standards for excellence, the C 414 XL II will not let you down.
AKG C414 XL II
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Bubba M. on Reverb
One of the better all round mics around, I have Neumann as well and actually prefer the C414, get the gold grill one however, the XL II, they just sound great, if you shop around you can find one under 600$ with all the original packaging, for the money, hard to beat, great on acoustic guitar, vocals, overhead, anywhere...
Incredible and Flexible
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Brendon I. on Reverb
This thing really does it all, I'm in love! This purchase upped my game in my home studio for sure. I didn't realize how much it brings to the table with the different polar pattern options. I've recorded vocals, acoustic guitar, violin, and sax with it which has all been incredible, but I've mostly been using them as drum overheads. In omni they pick up a huge roomy boomy sound, cardioid sounds really clean and even, figure 8 brings a high and tight sound with a strong high freq. I might eventually sell one of my 2 and get an C414 XLS matched pair, which would be slightly more appropriate for drum overheads. ... More
Great Mics
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by John Steskal on Guitar Center
The AKG C414 is famous beyond words, AKGs new version is just as silky smooth as the original with wonderful well defined richness in the lows. Everyone should have a AKG C414 XL II in their home recording studio as a goto mic. Save your money, mow peoples lawns, help people move, get a 2nd job... I don't care how you get one, just get one. They are just that amazing!
Great for lead vocals
AKG C414 XLII Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Steve on B&H Photo Video
I am a male vocalist. I record pop vocals (tenor range) going through the Apollo MKII. I am loving this mic. It gives me all the detail i need and retains the grit in my voice while getting rid of the annoying 1.5-2KHZ nasal sound. I highly recommend this mic to any vocalist who is willing to drop a few more bucks to get a pro level mic sound. I personally recommend it over the Neumann TLM series. As a subjective note: The shape of the mic offers a comfort level when singing at close range. Steve C.
AKG C414 XLII
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by waydetheblade on Guitar Center
I'll keep this brief: I've read, overall, many good to great things about this microphone, and I agree with most of what I heard about it. I was very impressed by the clear sound it had. This will be my go to mic for most things I record, but especially vocals. Many features to use and get used to, so it's well worth the money and effort to learn and experiment with.
Great bass response
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Alvin Zamudio on Guitar Center
Any good engineer familiar with the 414 will tell you that along with being crystal clear and crisp, it also has great bass response. If bass is what you need to hear in what you are recording, this is the mic to consider. And as it is superb for vocals as well as instruments, that makes it very versatile, which saves you money if your studio can't afford many mics. Just make sure to remember the pop filter! ;)
C414 Xlii for the win!!
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Gear - o - R. on Reverb
Fantastic mic so far. I started off using a Shure KSM44 for vocals and wasn't satisfied as it kind of gut buried in the mix and sounded boxy. Then I tried a Neumann TLM 103, and it had kind of a harsh, weird color on the high and altered the vocals a good bit. Then I picked up one of these, and the results have been fantastic. In my opinion, a far better sound than the Neumann. It's clear, warm, and true to the source. It's a little high-heavy, but with a little EQ and a touch of de-esser, the results are great! This is a quality mic! ... More
WOW...Bright...
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by BLiTZ on Guitar Center
Well, first of all Im not the guy to write reviews...first of all... so with that Im telling you I ve worked with several major producers and artists in major studios they have this mic and the U-87, if u dont have 3 G's for a mic this will defenetly do if you dont have this much for a mic then get the MXL and be unsatisfied...
My first mic at this price point
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Brian M. on Reverb
I had been recording voiceover with mics for a couple of years that were around the $400-500 level, and it was time for a step up. The high pass filter (I live above a subway line) was essential. The clarity and lack of distortion on the high end was immediately noticeable. It took me a moment to adjust to the sensitivity of this mic, but when I found my comfort zone it worked. Definitely worth the money. The Austrian Audio OC818 should also be considered. Similar specs. TTFN
Just a great workhorse microphone !!!
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Brad A. on Reverb
Love this mic. There's a reason so many records have featured this microphone. Very even, not over colored, and workable when post editing. Top end isnt sharp or harsh on VX. If you own this mic and it doesnt get you a great vocal then look elsewhere in your chain for the problem. Its not the mic. Thats reviewed with my bluesy male VX. Could be a little bright with female or male singers with thin shrill VX. Just EQ it if needed. :)
all around perfection
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by snaker wilsonical on Guitar Center
i have used a pair of these mainly to record drums(overheads) which is my favorite thing to record with these. but, they have proved to be absolutely great on many other sources, like acgtr, elgtr, percussion, piano, upright bass, and probably everything else too. get one or two if you want pro sound.
Good package
AKG C414 XLII Multi-Pattern Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Tim on B&H Photo Video
Good for small scale recording. I just use the pre-amp aspect of Apollo, but you're buying alot more, which I didn't need. Next time would get just a re-amp. Apollo is not easy to dial in really, has a few idiosyncracies. But once you egt it set it's decent enough for low budget recording. The mike is good for voice. See the B&H video - that was helpful. I actually liked the sound of this mike better than the others.
Wonderful on vocals
AKG C414 XLII Reference Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Reviewed by Jared on Guitar Center
This microphone is fantastic for recording vocals. It picks up everything in the room clearly including the air conditioner. This is no problem as the mic has a built in filter that can get rid of the noise from the air conditioner. The included manual has a description for all of the different pickup patterns and their uses. The manual also says the C414 XLII is recommended for vocals, whereas the C414 XLS is recommended for overheads.
