The AKG C414 XLII is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone of the reference class. It initially offers five polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, wide cardioid, hypercardioid and figure-of-eight. Additionally, 4 intermediate stages can be selected. The current setting is indicated by an LED. In addition, there are three pad circuits and three high-pass filters. With this great flexibility, the microphone can be perfectly adapted to different recording situations. Its sound is open and high-resolution with a slight presence boost. This makes the AKG C414 XLII ideal for recording voices and solo instruments. The recordings already stand out well in the mix, even without intervention. Quiet passages are recorded with transparency and nuance thanks to the extremely low self-noise. The high limiting sound pressure level also allows drum recordings. Especially the use as an overhead microphone or for snare and hi-hat is very useful. The AKG C414 XLII is also suitable for demanding live applications. A lock mode prevents unintentional adjustment of the settings by a key lock. The Peak Hold LED reliably indicates overdrive of the electronics, even with the shortest signal peaks. The microphone is supplied in a metal case with an elastic mount, pop screen, windscreen and dust protection bag. The AKG C414 XLII is also available as a specially matched stereo set.
The AKG C414 XLII is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone of the reference class. It initially offers five polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, wide cardioid, hypercardioid and figure-of-eight. Additionally, 4 intermediate stages can be selected. The current setting is indicated by an LED. In addition, there are three pad circuits and three high-pass filters. With this great flexibility, the microphone can be perfectly adapted to different recording situations. Its sound is open and high-resolution with a slight presence boost. This makes the AKG C414 XLII ideal for recording voices and solo instruments. The recordings already stand out well in the mix, even without intervention. Quiet passages are recorded with transparency and nuance thanks to the extremely low self-noise. The high limiting sound pressure level also allows drum recordings. Especially the use as an overhead microphone or for snare and hi-hat is very useful. The AKG C414 XLII is also suitable for demanding live applications. A lock mode prevents unintentional adjustment of the settings by a key lock. The Peak Hold LED reliably indicates overdrive of the electronics, even with the shortest signal peaks. The microphone is supplied in a metal case with an elastic mount, pop screen, windscreen and dust protection bag. The AKG C414 XLII is also available as a specially matched stereo set.
in 2 offers
last seen 1 Oct 2026
The lowest price we last saw for AKG C414 XL II Large-Diaphragm Reference Mic was $2,000.00 at Reverb, compared across 2 retailers (last seen 1 Oct 2026). Prices may have changed since.
AKG C414 XL II Large-Diaphragm Reference Mic
The AKG C414 XLII is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone of the reference class. It initially offers five polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, wide cardioid, hypercardioid and figure-of-eight. Additionally, 4 intermediate stages can be selected. The current setting is indicated by an LED. In addition, there are three pad circuits and three high-pass filters. With this great flexibility, the microphone can be perfectly adapted to different recording situations. Its sound is open and high-resolution with a slight presence boost. This makes the AKG C414 XLII ideal for recording voices and solo instruments. The recordings already stand out well in the mix, even without intervention. Quiet passages are recorded with transparency and nuance thanks to the extremely low self-noise. The high limiting sound pressure level also allows drum recordings. Especially the use as an overhead microphone or for snare and hi-hat is very useful. The AKG C414 XLII is also suitable for demanding live applications. A lock mode prevents unintentional adjustment of the settings by a key lock. The Peak Hold LED reliably indicates overdrive of the electronics, even with the shortest signal peaks. The microphone is supplied in a metal case with an elastic mount, pop screen, windscreen and dust protection bag. The AKG C414 XLII is also available as a specially matched stereo set.
The AKG C414 XLII is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone of the reference class. It initially offers five polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, wide cardioid, hypercardioid and figure-of-eight. Additionally, 4 intermediate stages can be selected. The current setting is indicated by an LED. In addition, there are three pad circuits and three high-pass filters. With this great flexibility, the microphone can be perfectly adapted to different recording situations. Its sound is open and high-resolution with a slight presence boost. This makes the AKG C414 XLII ideal for recording voices and solo instruments. The recordings already stand out well in the mix, even without intervention. Quiet passages are recorded with transparency and nuance thanks to the extremely low self-noise. The high limiting sound pressure level also allows drum recordings. Especially the use as an overhead microphone or for snare and hi-hat is very useful. The AKG C414 XLII is also suitable for demanding live applications. A lock mode prevents unintentional adjustment of the settings by a key lock. The Peak Hold LED reliably indicates overdrive of the electronics, even with the shortest signal peaks. The microphone is supplied in a metal case with an elastic mount, pop screen, windscreen and dust protection bag. The AKG C414 XLII is also available as a specially matched stereo set.
The all-time low we recorded was $923.80 on 24 July 2025.
Prices last updated 1 Oct 2026.
Last updated at 01/10/2026 20:08:16
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Free delivery
AKG C414 XLII
Free delivery between 6–13 Oct
originally posted on sweetwater.com
I purchased the 414 pair from Sweetwater, a serious investment but it is worth it. There are many mics out there, but when it was time for me to pick something good and something that would last for a long time, I went with the 414s - a classic, and one of the expensive options out there. Over the last few years, I frequently borrowed a pair of these mics for recording grand piano and other acoustic instruments, and got to like the wonderful sound of these mics. If one has experience using top studio mics, they could easily recognize the sound and the quality of 414s. I am glad that I purchased them from Sweetwater because this company stands behind the products they sell. After 2 months from my purchase, I had an issue with one of the mics (the volume of one of the ... MoreI purchased the 414 pair from Sweetwater, a serious investment but it is worth it. There are many mics out there, but when it was time for me to pick something good and something that would last for a long time, I went with the 414s - a classic, and one of the expensive options out there. Over the last few years, I frequently borrowed a pair of these mics for recording grand piano and other acoustic instruments, and got to like the wonderful sound of these mics. If one has experience using top studio mics, they could easily recognize the sound and the quality of 414s. I am glad that I purchased them from Sweetwater because this company stands behind the products they sell. After 2 months from my purchase, I had an issue with one of the mics (the volume of one of the mics seemed to be lower than the other mic), called Sweetwater customer service and they took care of the problem in less than 5 minutes by sending me a return label and sending me a new pair of these mics which arrived two days later. I highly recommend these mics and recommend buying from a company, like Sweetwater, you can rely on for the long term.
originally posted on zzounds.com
Overall:AKG C414 XL2 is a very transparent mic that is like the "Swiss Army Knife" of condenser microphones. I have a male baritone voice and sing a lot of 90's style grunge music. This mic is amazing for Rock Vocals. The presence of the mids and highs are neutral and sit in the mix perfectly. The noise level is very low! There are 9 different patterns to dial in what you need for your own voice. Go listen to all the reviews of this mic for acoustic guitars and guitar amps. I am sure you won't be disappointed but I am not a guitarist. I have to dock this mic for one reason. The AKG H85 Shock mount that comes with it is PLASTIC and has a plastic thread screw on piece!!! They wants 150 dollars for a new shock mount!!! It is complete garbage and it got completely ... MoreOverall:AKG C414 XL2 is a very transparent mic that is like the "Swiss Army Knife" of condenser microphones. I have a male baritone voice and sing a lot of 90's style grunge music. This mic is amazing for Rock Vocals. The presence of the mids and highs are neutral and sit in the mix perfectly. The noise level is very low! There are 9 different patterns to dial in what you need for your own voice. Go listen to all the reviews of this mic for acoustic guitars and guitar amps. I am sure you won't be disappointed but I am not a guitarist. I have to dock this mic for one reason. The AKG H85 Shock mount that comes with it is PLASTIC and has a plastic thread screw on piece!!! They wants 150 dollars for a new shock mount!!! It is complete garbage and it got completely stuck to my metal extension arm of my mic boom arm. I had to order a new extension metal piece for my Gator works boom arm. I then purchased a "Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-SM1855 Deluxe Universal Shockmount For Mics - 18-55mm" Do yourself a favor and order this mount along with the Microphone and dont even mess with the AKG - H85 shock mount. I couldn't even give a review of the Manufacturer support because they are in Austria and they dont even have any other aftermarket shock mounts to consider. Shock mount aside I would give the mic itself a 9/10 and is a must to have in your mic locker. The only mic I like slightly better is my Nuemann TLM - 103
originally posted on guitarcenter.com
Not sure I even received the right mic. The box was not for this product. No owners manual or any mfg.'s materials included and the box was for a different mic. Overall mic condition was good at best!
| Product dimensions | 28.7 x 24.38 x 13.97 cm; 45.36 Grams |
| Connector | XLR Connector |
| Proficiency Level | Intermediate |
| Hardware Platform | CONSUMER_ELECTRONICS |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
AKG C414 XLII Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Free delivery
AKG C414 XLII
Free delivery between 6–13 Oct
I purchased the 414 pair from Sweetwater, a serious investment but it is worth it. There are many mics out there, but when it was time for me to pick something good and something that would last for a long time, I went with the 414s - a classic, and one of the expensive options out there. Over the last few years, I frequently borrowed a pair of these mics for recording grand piano and other acoustic instruments, and got to like the wonderful sound of these mics. If one has experience using top studio mics, they could easily recognize the sound and the quality of 414s. I am glad that I purchased them from Sweetwater because this company stands behind the products they sell. After 2 months from my purchase, I had an issue with one of the mics (the volume of one of the ... MoreI purchased the 414 pair from Sweetwater, a serious investment but it is worth it. There are many mics out there, but when it was time for me to pick something good and something that would last for a long time, I went with the 414s - a classic, and one of the expensive options out there. Over the last few years, I frequently borrowed a pair of these mics for recording grand piano and other acoustic instruments, and got to like the wonderful sound of these mics. If one has experience using top studio mics, they could easily recognize the sound and the quality of 414s. I am glad that I purchased them from Sweetwater because this company stands behind the products they sell. After 2 months from my purchase, I had an issue with one of the mics (the volume of one of the mics seemed to be lower than the other mic), called Sweetwater customer service and they took care of the problem in less than 5 minutes by sending me a return label and sending me a new pair of these mics which arrived two days later. I highly recommend these mics and recommend buying from a company, like Sweetwater, you can rely on for the long term.
Overall:AKG C414 XL2 is a very transparent mic that is like the "Swiss Army Knife" of condenser microphones. I have a male baritone voice and sing a lot of 90's style grunge music. This mic is amazing for Rock Vocals. The presence of the mids and highs are neutral and sit in the mix perfectly. The noise level is very low! There are 9 different patterns to dial in what you need for your own voice. Go listen to all the reviews of this mic for acoustic guitars and guitar amps. I am sure you won't be disappointed but I am not a guitarist. I have to dock this mic for one reason. The AKG H85 Shock mount that comes with it is PLASTIC and has a plastic thread screw on piece!!! They wants 150 dollars for a new shock mount!!! It is complete garbage and it got completely ... MoreOverall:AKG C414 XL2 is a very transparent mic that is like the "Swiss Army Knife" of condenser microphones. I have a male baritone voice and sing a lot of 90's style grunge music. This mic is amazing for Rock Vocals. The presence of the mids and highs are neutral and sit in the mix perfectly. The noise level is very low! There are 9 different patterns to dial in what you need for your own voice. Go listen to all the reviews of this mic for acoustic guitars and guitar amps. I am sure you won't be disappointed but I am not a guitarist. I have to dock this mic for one reason. The AKG H85 Shock mount that comes with it is PLASTIC and has a plastic thread screw on piece!!! They wants 150 dollars for a new shock mount!!! It is complete garbage and it got completely stuck to my metal extension arm of my mic boom arm. I had to order a new extension metal piece for my Gator works boom arm. I then purchased a "Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-SM1855 Deluxe Universal Shockmount For Mics - 18-55mm" Do yourself a favor and order this mount along with the Microphone and dont even mess with the AKG - H85 shock mount. I couldn't even give a review of the Manufacturer support because they are in Austria and they dont even have any other aftermarket shock mounts to consider. Shock mount aside I would give the mic itself a 9/10 and is a must to have in your mic locker. The only mic I like slightly better is my Nuemann TLM - 103
Not sure I even received the right mic. The box was not for this product. No owners manual or any mfg.'s materials included and the box was for a different mic. Overall mic condition was good at best!
This microphone sounds great and the varying polar patterns and attenuation levels make it so versatile. It looks very professional and everyone agrees it is a must-have mic.
I am a male vocalist. I record pop vocals (tenor range) going through the Apollo MKII. I am loving this mic. It gives me all the detail i need and retains the grit in my voice while getting rid of the annoying 1.5-2KHZ nasal sound. I highly recommend this mic to any vocalist who is willing to drop a few more bucks to get a pro level mic sound. I personally recommend it over the Neumann TLM series. As a subjective note: The shape of the mic offers a comfort level when singing at close range. Steve C.
I bough this mic about a year ago, and can say with all honesty, it has been a standout performer for anything I have put it use on. For acoustic guitar it's clarity, and definition are amazing. You can hear every detail, and yet it is not harsh in any way. The numerous polar patterns allow you to taler the function to suit your needs with no loss of quality or spaciousness. With a good preamp it has a wonderful airy sound much like a u87 or Manley, and it is simply excellent for vocals. Male or female vocals really pop though this, but it DOES require your performance to be spot on. If you are slightly off it will pick it up! It is useful for just about anything in the studio you can think of, including picking up cymbals from overhead. It is one of the best ... MoreI bough this mic about a year ago, and can say with all honesty, it has been a standout performer for anything I have put it use on. For acoustic guitar it's clarity, and definition are amazing. You can hear every detail, and yet it is not harsh in any way. The numerous polar patterns allow you to taler the function to suit your needs with no loss of quality or spaciousness. With a good preamp it has a wonderful airy sound much like a u87 or Manley, and it is simply excellent for vocals. Male or female vocals really pop though this, but it DOES require your performance to be spot on. If you are slightly off it will pick it up! It is useful for just about anything in the studio you can think of, including picking up cymbals from overhead. It is one of the best Microphones I own, and I would put it up against the Neumann TLM103 or the Sterling Audio Ocean Way Signature Series mic, as well as the Neumann KMS104. It blows RODE, Sputnik, or lower level Sterlings out of the water. I own or have used in my studio all these mics, so can speak to it with absolute authority. It is durable, rugged, and has launched the careers of many a fabled performer, and for my money is one of the best values going. DO get a top quality heavy stand for use with this Mic. It does pick up whatever is going on in the environment, and mic stand noise can be maddening. I use the ultimate support boom, which retails for $199, and has a solid base, super thick pole and overhead boom.
I have a nice home studio (Primacoustic London 12 kit with Stratus Clouds, rear diffusers, Reason 9 DAW, JBL LR308 monitors, DBX 676 channel strip and Focusrite Forte interface). I was using an MXL V67G which don't get me wrong, sounded good to the ear. Had a hard time getting the VOX to sit in the mix right. I would spend a ton of time equalizing and gently compressing, only to have to bend the rest of the mix around them. There was something going on around 5k that I could not get to settle down. The AKG C414XLII changed all of that. The first thing my singer said was the microphone sounded "muffled" to her. What was actually happening was the MXL was so "hyped" on the high end it added a lot to the initial tracking. Tone wise the AKG tracks are extremely accurate ... MoreI have a nice home studio (Primacoustic London 12 kit with Stratus Clouds, rear diffusers, Reason 9 DAW, JBL LR308 monitors, DBX 676 channel strip and Focusrite Forte interface). I was using an MXL V67G which don't get me wrong, sounded good to the ear. Had a hard time getting the VOX to sit in the mix right. I would spend a ton of time equalizing and gently compressing, only to have to bend the rest of the mix around them. There was something going on around 5k that I could not get to settle down. The AKG C414XLII changed all of that. The first thing my singer said was the microphone sounded "muffled" to her. What was actually happening was the MXL was so "hyped" on the high end it added a lot to the initial tracking. Tone wise the AKG tracks are extremely accurate and respond well to minor EQ and compression changes. Getting them to sit in the mix is a snap. On a spectral analyzer the tracks look beautiful. I will never go back to using one of those "great" affordable microphones. The difference was massive. I will leave you with this, if you have to choose between an expensive microphone or room treatments, spend the money on the room first. The mic will only give you what you give it. If your room is harsh, with bad reverberations, you will not get the full effect and benefit.
The microphone sounds absolutely delicious. It surpassed my expectations. I sound so very good on it as not in real life. LOL. My voice is bassy and it did not enhance it although it mellowed it out. The high end was also spectacular -- sharp but not harsh.I use it for voice-overs and radio commercials.Buy one if you can afford it!~Bill
There is a reason this is one of the industry standard microphones you will find in studios across the globe...It is just that good. I also own a Neumann TLM102 and an AKG C214. I have recorded with both separately and side by side. Both microphones are flawless for vocal capture and so smooth. While the AKG C214 is a good bit brighter than my Neumann, the AKG C414 is an only slightly brighter and takes eq so easily. Then the other settings on the C414 truly set it apart. You would be hard pressed to find another microphone so capable, no, not capable...so exceptional at so many things. I love my Neumann but this microphone is just superior by design, function, and overall capability. So freaking proud to own and use this microphone. I am so grateful.
This microphone is fantastic for recording vocals. It picks up everything in the room clearly including the air conditioner. This is no problem as the mic has a built in filter that can get rid of the noise from the air conditioner. The included manual has a description for all of the different pickup patterns and their uses.The manual also says the C414 XLII is recommended for vocals, whereas the C414 XLS is recommended for overheads.
| Product dimensions | 28.7 x 24.38 x 13.97 cm; 45.36 Grams |
| Connector | XLR Connector |
| Proficiency Level | Intermediate |
| Hardware Platform | CONSUMER_ELECTRONICS |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
