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Average Price: $1,263
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$401+
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Based on price data from 5 merchants for "AKG C414 B-XL II". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The AKG C414 B-XL II is a versatile powerhouse that brings a blend of sonic excellence and adaptability to your studio sessions. Building on the legacy of its predecessors, this condenser microphone is celebrated for its ability to capture the finest audio details across a wide range of applications. Whether you're recording vocals, orchestras, or intimate acoustic sessions, the C414 B-XL II has you covered with its nine switchable polar patterns. This feature alone offers unparalleled control in shaping your sound, making it an indispensable tool for both live performances and studio recordings.
With a remarkable 134dB dynamic range, this microphone ensures that every nuance of your performance is captured with clarity and precision. The C414 B-XL II’s frequency response spans from 20Hz to 20kHz, perfectly catering to the full audible spectrum. It also boasts three bass cut filters and four pre-attenuation levels to tailor the mic's response to your environment. The built-in peak hold LED is a lifesaver, providing instant feedback on overloads to maintain pristine audio integrity.
Crafted with premium components, the AKG C414 B-XL II is not just about performance but also reliability. Its robust construction and thoughtful design echo the iconic AKG C12, ensuring that this microphone is not only a tool but a legacy in the making.
Key Features:
- Nine switchable polar patterns for versatile recording
- Dynamic range of 134dB for capturing subtle nuances
- Frequency range: 20Hz-20kHz
- Three bass cut filters: 12dB/octave at 40Hz & 80Hz; 6dB/octave at 160Hz
- Four pre-attenuation levels: 0dB, -6dB, -12dB, -18dB
- Peak hold LED for overload detection
- Includes carrying case, pop filter, windscreen, and shockmount
- Requires 48-volt phantom power
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, Shockmount, Pop Screen, Windscreen, Carry Case |
FAQs
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What polar patterns does the AKG C414 B-XL II offer?
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The AKG C414 B-XL II provides nine selectable polar patterns, including omni, wide cardioid, cardioid, hypercardioid, and figure-8, allowing for versatile recording applications.
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Is the AKG C414 B-XL II suitable for recording vocals?
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Yes, the AKG C414 B-XL II is ideal for recording vocals, offering a bright and detailed sound reminiscent of the classic AKG C12, making it a popular choice in professional studios.
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Does the AKG C414 B-XL II require phantom power?
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Yes, the AKG C414 B-XL II requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for condenser microphones.
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What accessories are included with the AKG C414 B-XL II?
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The AKG C414 B-XL II comes with a stand mount, shockmount, pop screen, windscreen, and a carry case for convenient transport and setup.
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How does the AKG C414 B-XL II handle high sound pressure levels?
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The AKG C414 B-XL II can handle a maximum SPL of 140dB, or up to 158dB with the 18dB pad, making it suitable for loud sound sources.
Videos
AKG Acoustics
AKG C 414 B-XLII - Promotion video
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AKG C414 B-XL II.
Comparisons
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The TLII offers a smoother, more robust sound compared to the XLII, which has a grainier high end and weaker bass reproduction.
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The older C414 models, such as the TLII, include transformers, contributing to a deeper, livelier low end; the newer XLII lacks this feature.
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It's noted that the C414 B-ULS model sounds darker and has a transformer, providing a thicker sound compared to newer models.
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The B-ULS model is preferred by some for its warm sound, with a transformer that colors the audio differently from the XLII and newer models.
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Vintage mics, including older C414s, may vary in sound due to inconsistent factory tolerances, leading to unpredictable performance compared to newer models.
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Build quality
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The TLII capsule is designed to be less susceptible to aging, unlike older models like the EB, C12, and 251, which can suffer from tension loss over time.
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Features and functionality
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The XLII is praised for its high sensitivity and versatile pickup patterns, making it capable of capturing subtle noises in studio environments.
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The non-B versions of the C414 have more polar pattern options, including intermediate settings between standard patterns, though their practical use is debated among users.
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New C414 models offer nine polar patterns with pattern recall, low self-noise at 6dBA, more pads, and additional filter options.
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Use cases and applications
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The C414 has been historically favored for capturing articulate, accurate vocal performances, highlighted by its use with iconic vocalists like Freddie Mercury.
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Extra polar patterns on newer C414 models can be useful for ambient applications like room miking for drums, blending direct and reflected sound.
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The TLII version is favored for guitar amps and male vocals due to its mid-range emphasis, enhancing presence in these applications.
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Setup and maintenance
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New C414s use SMT construction, requiring full board replacement for repairs, unlike older TLII models with repairable through-hole construction.
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Artist usage
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Chris Martin used the AKG C414 B-XL II condenser microphone to record the official song "Clocks" by Coldplay, as shown in the YouTube video titled "UNSEEN FOOTAGE OF CHRIS MARTIN FROM COLDPLAY CREATING CLOCKS IN THE STUDIO," uploaded by Richard Goldfinch.
Bora Karaca uses the AKG C414 B-XL II, as listed on his LA studio's website, The Laboratory Audio.
"According to drum tech Jeff Linsenmaier, Ben Wysocki's kit is miked with Sennheiser e 602 and Yamaha SubKick (bass), Beyer M201TG (snare top), Sennheiser e 604 (snare bottom), AKG C 430 (hi-hat), Shure SM57 (tambourine), Sennheiser e 604s (rack/floor toms), AKG 460 (ride cymbal) and AKG C 414 B-XL II (underhead stage-right/left)."
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 C414 B-XL II, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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