AKG C414 EB

$1,750.00 Price Tier: High-end

1 Critic Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jun 09, 2026

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5.0 (9)

$1,750.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $1,750

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

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

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High-end

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Description

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The AKG C414 EB is a legendary piece in the realm of studio recording gear, cherished by professionals for its remarkable versatility and rich tonal character. This iconic condenser microphone, a standout in the AKG C414 series, is revered for its authentic reproduction of sound, making it an essential tool in any recording studio. With its roots tracing back to some of the most prestigious microphones in history, the C414 EB features the coveted "Brass" CK12 capsule, celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship and unparalleled sound clarity.

Designed for adaptability, the AKG C414 EB offers a variety of polar patterns, allowing you to capture the nuances of any performance with precision. Whether you're recording vocals or instruments, its ability to handle high-pressure sound levels without distortion makes it a reliable choice for capturing the essence of your sound. The addition of a second pad position and multiple high-pass filter options further enhances its versatility, providing you with the control needed to tailor the microphone's response to your specific recording environment.

Key Features:

Equipped with the renowned "Brass" CK12 capsule for superior sound clarity
Multiple polar patterns for versatile recording applications
Second pad position (-20dB) for managing high sound pressure levels
Three high-pass filter options for enhanced control over low-frequency response
Ideal for capturing a wide range of sound sources, from vocals to orchestral instruments

Product specs

Brand	AKG
Model	C414 EB with Brass CK12 Capsule
Finish	Silver
Year	1970s
Made In	Austria
Categories	Microphones
Electronics	Analog, Solid State
Microphone Type	Large-Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern	Multipattern
Wired/Wireless	Wired

FAQs

What is the polar pattern of the AKG C414 EB microphone?: The AKG C414 EB features a multipattern polar pattern, allowing users to select from various options such as cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8, making it versatile for different recording applications.
Does the AKG C414 EB require phantom power?: Yes, the AKG C414 EB requires 48-volt phantom power to operate, which is commonly supplied by most professional audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
What makes the AKG C414 EB suitable for vocal recording?: The AKG C414 EB is renowned for its natural sound and ability to smooth out harsh vocal tones, thanks to its brass CK12 capsule, making it a popular choice for vocal recording.
Is the AKG C414 EB a good choice for recording instruments?: Yes, the AKG C414 EB is highly versatile and can be used to capture a wide range of instruments with clarity and detail, including strings, brass, and percussion.
What is the main construction material of the AKG C414 EB capsule?: The AKG C414 EB features a brass CK12 capsule, which contributes to its distinctive sound quality and durability, making it a sought-after microphone for professional recordings.

Videos

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Sound On Sound magazine

AKG C414 The Ultimate Comparison: XLS vs XLII vs B-ULS vs EB

Sound On Sound magazine

Test 27 AKG 414 EB the CK12 Capsule Found in the C12 Tube Microphone Guitarist Patrick Caldwell

Modern Mics

Neumann U 87 Ai vs AKG C 414 EB

Ján Rau

Original Vs. Reskinned Condenser Microphone Capsules

Cole Picks Vintage

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional sound quality with a rich, tube-like low end
Brass capsule delivers a delicate and balanced tonal range
Handles high-mid frequencies with a bright and natural saturation
Velvety brilliance in treble, suitable for both male and female vocals
Stands tall against other high-end microphones, including the revered 251
Exceeds expectations with smooth, silky sound characteristics
Provides a more powerful and detailed sound in guitar tracking
Balances well without bulging mid frequencies like some historic models

CONS

Some units require servicing due to component deterioration
Limited availability, making it a rare find

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

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The AKG C414 EB with the brass capsule is frequently praised for its versatility and ability to handle multiple recording scenarios effectively.
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The EB-P48 variant of the C414 accepts standard 48V phantom power and has a slightly darker tone than the CK12 EB.
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Comparisons

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The C414 XLII's presence boost makes it less of a "reference" mic compared to the XLS, which maintains a flatter, more natural sound across all polar patterns.
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The TL-II is brighter than the B-ULS but remains transformerless, making it a good choice for vocals and drums.
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The new XLS model is essentially the modern equivalent of the B-ULS, while the XLII is voiced brighter like the TL-II.
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The newer C414 models emphasize the upper midrange more and have less emphasis in the lower mids compared to the EB model.
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User experience

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Owners note the C414 B-ULS is darker than newer models, and some prefer its sound over the brighter XLS and XLII models.
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Owners note that the B-ULS offers a round tone with an upper-end roll-off, making it great for toms.
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Owners stress the importance of having a local service center for repairs, especially for expensive mics like the C414, to address potential future issues.
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Use cases and applications

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The C414 EB is considered a reliable choice for various applications, including overheads, room mics, and acoustic guitars, due to its well-rounded performance.
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The B-ULS is praised for tracking instruments, while the TL-II is recommended for vocal applications due to its bright character.
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The C414 is recommended for recording both acoustic guitar and vocals, making it a versatile choice for composers focusing on these elements.
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Build quality

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Older C414 models, particularly the EB with a brass capsule, are harder to find in good condition and tend to be more expensive.
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Value and pricing

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Vintage 'brass ring' C414 models are very expensive and difficult to find in good condition, making new models an attractive alternative.
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Used C414s are often priced similarly to new ones, making it challenging to decide without a direct comparison.
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In India, the C414 is considered more cost-effective than the OC818, despite similar pricing in the US market.
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Critic Reviews

AKG C414 The Ultimate Comparison: XLS vs XLII vs B-ULS vs EB

soundonsound.com

The AKG C414 EB shines as a versatile studio staple, celebrated for its classic sound and reliability. This comparison highlights its distinctive character, particularly on vocals and acoustic instruments, thanks to the revered CK-12 capsule. While newer models like the XLII offer a modern twist with enhanced high-end clarity, the EB remains a favorite for its warm, rich tones. However, some might find its vintage charm less suited for ultra-clean recordings compared to the XLS. Overall, the review paints a positive picture of the C414 EB, emphasizing its enduring appeal for those seeking a touch of analog warmth in their recordings.

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