AKG C414 XL II

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$759.05 to $1,299.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (44)

4 Critic Reviews

7 Reviews

All time low price

Find out who is using AKG C414 XL II

4 community setups

69 wishlisted

181 saved

Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 7, 2026.

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5.0 (49)

$1,249.00

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4.5 (18)

$1,247.00 $1,235.00 $12.00 · All time low

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Used

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5.0 (26)

$759.05 31 available New

$621.00 22 available Used

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5.0 (8)

$1,249.00 $1,235.00 $14.00 · All time low

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4.7 (17)

$1,299.00

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4.9 (178)

$885.00 $879.00 $6.00 · All time low

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£815.00

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5.0 (2)

$1,299.00

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Average Price: $1,092

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, AKG C414 XL II is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "AKG C414 XL II". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The AKG C414 XL II condenser microphone is a versatile musical instrument that offers nine switchable polar patterns, making it suitable for a broad range of applications. With its rich heritage from the legendary AKG C12, the C414 XL II is designed to provide a slight presence boost and the spatial reproduction capability that makes vocals and solo instruments stand out in a dense mix.

Not only does it offer a wide frequency range, but it also includes three bass cut filters and four pre-attenuation levels, allowing you to fine-tune the microphone to your needs. This microphone also features an impressive 134dB dynamic range, capturing every nuance from subtle sounds to loud peaks.

The C414 XL II comes with a peak hold LED that detects and displays overload peaks instantly, ensuring that you maintain optimal gain structure for clean, transparent results. Handcrafted in Austria with AKG's legendary standards of quality, this microphone pairs a robust metal body with premium electronic components for years of flawless performance.

Key Features:

Nine switchable polar patterns for versatile application
Lock mode disables all controls for live and installation use
Dynamic range of 152dB
Three bass cut filters and pre-attenuation levels
Peak hold LED for instant overload detection
Includes carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and spider-type shock mount
Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
Pre-attenuation pad: 0dB, -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, switchable
Bass cut filter slope: 12dB/octave at 40Hz and 80Hz; 6dB/octave at 160Hz
Requires 48-volt phantom power

Owner's manual

AKG C414 XL II User Manual

Product 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 SPL (158dB w/18dB Pad)
Output Impedance	200 ohms
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
Power Source	48V phantom power
Weight	0.66 lbs.
Included Accessories	Stand Mount, Shock Mount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case

FAQs

What are the primary applications for the AKG C414 XLII microphone?: The AKG C414 XLII is highly versatile, ideal for studio recording, broadcasts, and live performances. Its multiple polar patterns and open, high-resolution sound make it particularly well-suited for vocals and solo instruments.
Does the AKG C414 XLII require phantom power?: Yes, the AKG C414 XLII is a condenser microphone and requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is typically supplied by a preamp, mixing desk, or audio interface.
What polar patterns are available on the AKG C414 XLII?: The AKG C414 XLII offers five selectable polar patterns: omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure-8, allowing for flexibility in capturing sound from different environments and applications.
How does the AKG C414 XLII handle high sound pressure levels?: The AKG C414 XLII can handle a maximum sound pressure level of 140dB, or up to 158dB with the 18dB pad engaged, making it suitable for recording loud sound sources without distortion.
What accessories are included with the AKG C414 XLII microphone?: The AKG C414 XLII comes with a stand mount, shock mount, pop screen, windscreen, and a carry case, providing essential tools for optimal recording and protection.

Videos

Add video

Podcastage

AKG C414 XLII Microphone Review / Test (Compared to C414XLS, TLM103, U87 Ai, NT1)

Podcastage

Neumann U87 vs AKG C414 XLII | Female Vocal Comparison

Novro Studios

Getting the Most Out of Your AKG C414 Condenser Microphone

Sweetwater

AKG C414 XLII vs XLS (RAP VOCAL DEMO)

CLEAN MUD VIDEOS

AKG C 414 XL II Condenser Microphone

Musician's Friend

AKG C414 XL II - An Overview Plus Stereo Recording

Dan Baker

AKG C414 XLII - Review / Vocal Sound Test

ZPJ Studio

AKG C414 XLII Reference Microphone: How It's Made

AKG Acoustics

Jovana - How Deep Is Your Love COVER

Jovana Music

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional versatility across applications (vocals, drums, guitars)
Selectable polar patterns offer tailored recording experiences
Superior frequency response and accuracy for clear tracks
Durable build quality ensures longevity
Offers great value compared to more expensive mics
Simplifies editing, mixing, and mastering processes
Includes a robust accessory package (shock mount, pop filter)
Enhanced upper frequency boost for airy and clear vocals
Excels in recording precision for instruments and vocals alike
Highly recommended for both home and professional studios

CONS

Can be extremely fragile, requiring careful handling
May produce thin-sounding male vocals without post-processing
Sibilance ("s" sounds) may need attention during recording

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG C414 XL II.

Features and functionality

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The AKG C414 XL II is frequently used in cardioid mode to focus capture on vocals, minimizing background noise in untreated rooms.
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Engaging the 80 Hz high pass filter can help reduce boominess in vocals, providing a cleaner recording in less-than-ideal acoustic environments.
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Older C414 models, like the TLII, include a transformer, which can contribute to a livelier sound, whereas the XLII lacks this feature.
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The absence of a transformer in the C414 XLII may necessitate a quality preamp to enhance sound depth, with Neve preamps often recommended for their saturated transformers.
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Setup and maintenance

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Implementing a pop filter and reflexion filter is recommended if a dedicated vocal booth is unavailable, ensuring cleaner vocal recordings.
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Use cases and applications

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The microphone's effectiveness can be enhanced with a Neve 1073 preamp, which is popular for rap and hip-hop vocal recording.
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Positioning the mic 6"-12" from the vocalist is suggested for optimal sound capture, balancing proximity effect and vocal clarity.
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The C414 XLII is praised for its ability to capture articulate and raspy vocal characteristics, similar to recordings of Freddie Mercury.
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Comparisons

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The AKG C414 TLII is noted for having a smoother, more robust sound with deeper lows compared to the C414 XLII, which can sound grainy in the high end.
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The C414 TLII has a sound profile that aligns more closely with vintage models like the C414 EB, known for their fuller and brighter sound.
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User experience

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Owners describe the C414 XLII as having high sensitivity, capable of picking up subtle noises in recordings, which can be advantageous in detailed studio work.
Source

Critic Reviews

AKG C414 XLII review: She is beauty, she is grace

higherhz.com

The AKG C414 XLII is a versatile studio gem, famed for its crisp clarity and adaptability across various recording scenarios. Its robust build and detailed sound capture make it a staple for vocals and acoustic instruments alike. However, its steep price tag might deter budget-conscious musicians. Despite this, its performance justifies the investment, making it a worthy addition to any serious studio setup.

positive

Full Review

AKG: C414 XLII Multi-Pattern Condenser Mic | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The AKG C414 XLII excels as a versatile studio workhorse, impressing with its quality build and sound. This multi-pattern condenser mic offers nine polar patterns and a wide frequency response, capturing vocals with a rich, airy presence. While the proprietary shock mount feels a bit lightweight, the mic's overall performance shines, particularly on vocals and acoustic instruments. Ideal for those seeking a reliable, do-it-all microphone, the C414 XLII proves to be a solid investment despite minor qualms with certain accessories.

positive

Full Review

AKG C414B XLS & XLII

soundonsound.com

AKG's C414 XLII microphone successfully marries classic sound with modern upgrades, offering improved technical specs and diverse accessories. Its enhanced dynamic range and low noise make it a strong contender for professional recording. However, the bright LEDs might hinder discreet TV applications. Overall, it upholds the C414's renowned reputation while introducing practical innovations.

positive

Full Review

The Definitive AKG C414 XLII Review | 2025 edition

soundref.com

Full Review

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 44 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

robin_buckingham

325

almost 9 years ago

My "Go To Mic".

I must have no less than 10 of these. I even use it on snare with a beta 56 (tighter patters w-1k more added on the freq response). That is all I ever need, but you can add a snare bottom of that is your thing. I have never had a drummer hit one. I have even used 120 mic, an entire kit. It came out sweet. Loved it.

But aside from the obvious. My technique is for a guitar cab is: a 57 on the speaker, a 414 a few inches off (another 414 on the back if it is open back cab, and a royer ribbin (one of those $400 ribbons is cool too) a couple of feet off. My trick, is a kick mic, usually a D112 used exactly as the 57 is. I bring the 57 & D112 (type) to unison, sun them, then sum the two room based mics on a second track. I have never needed "more than this". If I have needed more, I knew before hand and used a different mic-ing approach.

This technique works very well with 2 cans facing 180 degrees apart, mic then the same way.
Guitarists are used to stereo tones at home, but want their "unicorn tone" in the studio. I have found this is the shortest distance between two points.

monotonne_band

105

almost 4 years ago

Very good

A true "workhorse" among 1000-1500$ microphones. Both vocals and instruments sound great in it

Roles:

Music Producer Audio Engineer

Genres:

Electronic Pop Hip Hop

gabriel_c_media

183

over 10 years ago

The best mic ever!

It took me a long time to save up for this mic, but it was well worth it! listening to all sorts of tests and shootouts...it just wasn't worth it for me to go with anything else when I KNOW I would have gotten a professional sound out of this thing. Months later, and an awesome $700 deal on Amazon, I finally got it...and I love it! I've only used it on vocals at the moment, but I've gotten nothing but praise from everyone. It's full, transparent and just sounds fantastic!

You really can't do better than this! I know it's super-pricey, but it's well-worth the price tag!

dj_luigi_premium

173

over 8 years ago

This is something special

For house music production I personally prefer a bit darker and crispy sound. AKG 414 XL ll give me decently what I want. Clear, darker and with brutally quality sound. I recommend it for lead vocals, saxopfone and violin

ron_tyili

275

almost 10 years ago

All in ONE

This is every studio's best friend, records it all.. strings, vocal, brass, acoustic guitar ...i can go on for ever... all rounder! all perfect! excellent investment for this condenser mic!

Roles:

Bassist Drummer Composer

Genres:

Rock Hip Hop Reggae

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago almost 10 years ago

its the swiss army knife that every newb expects the 57 will be

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago almost 10 years ago

although I prefer the version with the transformer or for transformerless the AT4050... but its apples and apples

ron_tyili

275

10 years ago almost 10 years ago

@Jimmarchi1 what ever makes you happy mate! but this mic is a perfect Swiss army knife..i have been MacGyver in the studio with this AKGC414 TLII.

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago almost 10 years ago

its apples and apples, but side by side I always felt the 4050 had more open sounding circuitry whereas the classic transformer equipped 414 is just way better at being up front than either... they are all great mics... if you've never tried an at4050 though, give her a whirl next time you're in a studio that has one or two, very underrated multi-pattern

jovana

about 7 years ago

Very professional microphone!

Very clear and brutally quality sound. I recommend it for lead & backup vocals! The best mic ever!!!

jimmarchi1

41029

7 years ago about 7 years ago

best mic? dunno… a swiss army knife of condensers? sure

jovana

7 years ago about 7 years ago

I wrote my experience. It gives very clear sound (catch everything nice, lows-mids-highs), so you can mix vocals in way you want. I don't know about recording instruments, but for vocal recording is top.