Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $272
Budget/Beginner
$499
$1500+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Avantone CR-14". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Avantone CR-14, a retro-inspired ribbon microphone that blends classic aesthetic allure with modern engineering finesse. This microphone is a testament to Avantone's commitment to crafting high-quality studio gear without the hefty price tag. The CR-14 is engineered with dual low-mass ribbon elements, delivering a smooth and warm sound that captures the nuances of vocals, guitar amps, and a diverse array of acoustic instruments. Its figure-8 polar pattern offers extended sweet spots, making it an excellent choice for both studio and live applications.
With a robust build featuring a polished nickel trim and a Cabernet Wine-Red finish, the CR-14 not only sounds great but also looks stunning. It handles high sound pressure levels up to 145dB, ensuring clarity without distortion even in loud environments. The lack of internal active electronics means no need for a power supply, reducing the risk of distortion and maintaining signal integrity. The package comes complete with a custom retro shockmount, a wooden box, and a metal case, ensuring your microphone is both protected and elegantly displayed.
Key Features:
- Dual low-mass ribbon elements for smooth sound
- High SPL handling up to 145dB
- Figure-8 pickup pattern with extended sweet spots
- No power supply required; no internal active electronics
- Frequency Response: 30Hz-15kHz +/-3dB
- Output Impedance: ≤600 ohms
- Sensitivity: -52 dBv +/- 2dB Re.
- Included accessories: Wooden box, shockmount, metal case
- Stylish design with polished nickel trim and metallic wine red finish
Product specs
| Microphone Type | Ribbon |
| Ribbon Type | 2-micron Aluminum (Dual Ribbon) (5mm x 35mm) |
| Mono/Stereo | Mono |
| Polar Pattern | Figure-8 |
| Frequency Response | 30Hz-15kHz |
| Max SPL | 145dB |
| Output Impedance | 600 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 72dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 1 lb. |
| Included Accessories | Shock Mount, Wood Box, Aluminum Flight Case |
FAQs
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What is the polar pattern of the Avantone CR-14 and how does it affect recording?
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The Avantone CR-14 features a figure-8 polar pattern, which captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides. This makes it ideal for recording in environments where you want to capture room ambiance or multiple sources.
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Is the Avantone CR-14 suitable for high sound pressure levels?
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Yes, the Avantone CR-14 can handle a maximum sound pressure level of 145dB, making it suitable for recording loud sources such as drums or guitar amplifiers without distortion.
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What are the key sound characteristics of the Avantone CR-14 ribbon microphone?
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The Avantone CR-14 provides a smooth, warm sound typical of ribbon microphones, with a frequency response from 30Hz to 15kHz. This makes it excellent for capturing vocals and instruments with a natural, vintage tone.
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Does the Avantone CR-14 require phantom power?
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No, the Avantone CR-14 does not require phantom power. In fact, applying phantom power can damage ribbon microphones, so it should be avoided.
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What accessories are included with the Avantone CR-14?
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The Avantone CR-14 comes with a shock mount, a wood box for storage, and an aluminum flight case for transport, providing protection and convenience for studio or on-the-go use.
Videos
Easy Music Center
Avantone CR-14 reviewed for EMC
Reviews
PROS
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Delivers a rich, warm sound with good low-end reproduction
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Excellent build quality with a solid feel
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Includes quality accessories like shockmount and case
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Versatile across multiple sources (vocals, guitar cabinets, upright bass)
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Minimal to no self noise; handles high SPLs well
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Provides a vintage tone, especially effective on drums and guitar cabinets
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Good value for the price; considered a solid workhorse
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Figure 8 pattern captures room sounds well, offering natural reverb
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Works well in stereo setups for room miking
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Suitable for both soft and loud vocals, with a smooth sound for baritone voices
CONS
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Figure 8 pattern limits its use in isolating sound sources
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Soft singing might not be as well captured as louder vocals
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Requires careful handling due to sensitivity
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Suspension system can be difficult to operate; may feel overly heavy-duty
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Might need additional gear (like a cloud lifter) for optimal performance
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Avantone CR-14.
Use cases and applications
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The CR-14 excels at taming harsh high mids, making it particularly effective for recording brass instruments like horns.
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The microphone may not suit users seeking a brighter guitar cab sound, as its natural tone leans toward the darker side.
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While ribbon mics can be used on acoustic guitars, large diaphragm condensers are generally recommended for highlighting the instrument's sound, especially for fingerpicking styles.
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User experience
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Owners appreciate the CR-14 for its smooth, warm tone, especially when used in recording environments with a naturally pleasing acoustical quality.
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Features and functionality
Comparisons
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It's suggested that the Beyerdynamic M160 can offer a tonal quality similar to the Royer 121, making it worth considering for versatile applications.
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Mods and upgrades
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The Apex 205 can be enhanced with a Lundahl transformer for improved sound quality, costing around $165 total for the mic and mod.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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