Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $1,019
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$100
$401+
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic is a true powerhouse that offers a blend of fine-tuned precision and rugged durability. An updated version of the iconic AKG C414, this mic has been gracing studios and stages for over 50 years, and it's easy to see why. With its unparalleled versatility, this mic delivers reference-level performance and detailed nuance, capturing every acoustic source with stunning realism.
One of the standout features is the nine switchable polar patterns, allowing you to effortlessly switch between cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-eight, hypercardioid, and four intermediate stages for the perfect sound capture. Whether you're recording a choir or an acoustic ensemble, this mic has you covered.
But it's not just about versatility. The AKG C 414 B-XLS also boasts an ultra-wide dynamic range of 152 dB, ensuring accurate reproduction of both subtle details and signal peaks. The 1" dual-diaphragm capsule and transformerless output stage provide a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, while the three bass cut filters and pre-attenuation levels offer precise tonal shaping.
This mic is built to last, with a double-mesh grille protecting the capsule from moisture and dust. It even includes a peak hold LED to alert you to overload peaks for optimal gain staging. And for those live performances or installations, the Lock Mode disables all controls to prevent any accidental changes.
Key Features:
- Nine switchable polar patterns including cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-eight, hypercardioid, and four intermediate stages
- Ultra-wide dynamic range of 152 dB
- Frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- 1" dual-diaphragm capsule and transformerless output stage
- Three bass cut filters and pre-attenuation levels
- Lock Mode disables all controls for live-sound applications and permanent installations
- Peak hold LED alerts users to overload peaks
- Double-mesh grille protects the capsule from moisture, dust and plosives
- Includes spider-type shockmount and thick-walled carrying case for transport and storage
Owner's manual
AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic User ManualProduct specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, Figure-8 |
| Diaphragm Size | 1" (25.4mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 140dB (158dB w/18dB Pad) |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 23 mV/Pa |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 88dB (A weighted) |
| Dynamic Range | 134dB min |
| Self Noise | 6dB (A weighted) |
| Low Cut Filter | 40Hz, 80Hz (-12dB/octave), 160Hz (-6dB/octave) |
| Pads | -6dB, -12dB, -18dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Dimensions | 6.29" x 1.96" |
| Weight | 0.66 lbs. |
| Included Accessories | Stand Mount, Shock Mount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case |
FAQs
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What polar patterns are available on the AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic?
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The AKG C 414 B-XLS offers nine polar patterns, including Omni, Wide Cardioid, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, and Figure-8, allowing for versatile recording options in various environments.
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Is the AKG C 414 B-XLS suitable for recording vocals?
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Yes, the AKG C 414 B-XLS is highly regarded for vocal recordings due to its clear sound reproduction and multiple polar pattern options, making it a staple in professional studios.
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Does the AKG C 414 B-XLS require phantom power?
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Yes, the AKG C 414 B-XLS requires 48-volt phantom power to operate, which is standard for most condenser microphones.
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What is the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) the AKG C 414 B-XLS can handle?
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The AKG C 414 B-XLS can handle a maximum SPL of 140dB, or 158dB with the 18dB pad engaged, making it suitable for loud sound sources.
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What accessories are included with the AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic?
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The AKG C 414 B-XLS comes with a stand mount, shock mount, pop screen, windscreen, and a carry case for convenient storage and transport.
Videos
Podcastage
AKG C414 XLII Microphone Review / Test (Compared to C414XLS, TLM103, U87 Ai, NT1)
AKG C414 XLII Microphone Review / Test (Compared to C414XLS, TLM103, U87 Ai, NT1)
Podcastage
AKG C414 XLII vs XLS (RAP VOCAL DEMO)
CLEAN MUD VIDEOS
AKG C414 BXLS vs XLII vs BULS vs TLII comparison mic shootout
Tom Szy Music
Guitar Recording - Mic Comparison - Shure SM27-LC vs. AKG C414 B-XLS, Neumann TLM103 & Neumann KM184
Peter Schilmöller
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional sound quality for both vocals and instruments
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Versatile, with settings for different recording needs
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Handles high volume singing without distortion
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Ideal for recording orchestras with super low noise
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Provides smooth texture to vocals without needing plugins
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Durable design, with an easy fix for common wiring issue
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Supplied factory frequency response graphs ensure consistency
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Can replace multiple microphones for studio versatility
CONS
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Wiring from capsule to body may break over time
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Price may be prohibitive for some users
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Polar patterns not as uniform as some competitors
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic.
Comparisons
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The AKG C414 XLS is noted for precision, while the U87 is preferred for its character and vocal applications.
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The Austrian Audio OC818, created by ex-AKG engineers, is recommended as a contemporary alternative to the C414 XLS.
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The XLS model is noted for its smoother high-frequency response and 'beefy' low frequencies, making it comparable to the revered EB models, ideal for capturing classic tones.
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The XLII version is described as having more presence and high-frequency response, making it suitable for modern pop vocal recordings but less reminiscent of the classic 414 sound.
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The B-ULS version is favored for its darker, thicker sound, while newer models are leaner and cleaner due to being transformerless.
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The TL-II, similar to B-ULS but brighter, is excellent for vocals and drums, while the XLS is recommended for tracking instruments.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The C414 XLS is described as a workhorse suitable for diverse recording needs across various sources.
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The XLS is preferred for its flatter frequency response, which is favored for instrument recording and as an all-purpose microphone.
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The B-ULS is praised for its round tone, especially effective on toms, with a subtle high-end roll-off.
Source
User experience
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Owners of the C414 XLII specifically appreciate its performance, suggesting it may be favored over the XLS model.
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An owner reported that the XLS model closely matched the smoothness of the EB's high-frequency response, suggesting its suitability for users seeking a vintage sound profile.
Source
Value and pricing
Features and functionality
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
This video is an interview of Stanley Soares, studio and front of house audio engineer for Sepultura. As of 0:22, he talks about the AKG C 414 which he used for the recording of the albums Dante XXI and A-Lex. He says, "In both of the albums I used C 414 a lot, especially for the drums, like a room microphone and for guitar as well and percussion.(Sic)". A picture of the mic, as it was used in the studio, can be seen at 0:23.
on this website, the article presents some of the equipment used by Elton John on his magnificent live performances.
On page 2, the 7th paragraph states that a pair of AKG 414s is used on his live performances.
Sinéad O'Connor used the AKG C 414 B-XLS condenser microphone during the recording of "Nothing Compares 2 U," as noted in VoiceCouncil Magazine's article on famous studio mics.
You can see Lil Skies Preforming 'Magic' in a Genius Video. The mic that is singing infront of him is a Akg C 414 but a C 414 XLII Has a gold color infront of it but the mic he is singing into is silver so it must be the C 414 B-XLS or the C 414 XLS or the C 414 B-ULS.
Gwenifer Raymond uses the AKG C414 XLS microphone, as confirmed by Pete Prown in Vintage Guitar magazine. Also in this video: https://youtu.be/1zyE5pkTfo8?t=4 - you can see it
Album Usage
The AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use AKG C 414 B-XLS Condenser Mic, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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