JA
I bought my C414 XLS about a year ago, I love everything about it!
The pros:
Marvelous build quality;
Pristine sound;
The ability to choose a middle term between polar patterns;
The included hard case is very sturdy.
The cons:
I can think of one con and it comes from a pro. As the C414 has a very detailed sound and is very sensible, if you have any noise getting in the room, or if the room doesn't sound good you can very clearly hear it on your recordings.
The elastic mount that comes with the XLS isn't all that great either. Wouldn't trust it too much.
Conclusion:
This microphone is a great tool to have, you can throw anything at it whether it's an instrument, vocals, folley and so on, and it'll get the job done just right.
The pros:
Marvelous build quality;
Pristine sound;
The ability to choose a middle term between polar patterns;
The included hard case is very sturdy.
The cons:
I can think of one con and it comes from a pro. As the C414 has a very detailed sound and is very sensible, if you have any noise getting in the room, or if the room doesn't sound good you can very clearly hear it on your recordings.
The elastic mount that comes with the XLS isn't all that great either. Wouldn't trust it too much.
Conclusion:
This microphone is a great tool to have, you can throw anything at it whether it's an instrument, vocals, folley and so on, and it'll get the job done just right.
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R
Industry Standard, enough said
I spoke with an experienced producer who recommended this mic. He said he uses it for every production in one capacity or another. With nine polar patterns, bass cut and attenuation options, it's extremely versatile. And it has low self noise. It came with a very nice shock mount, pop screen and in a good quality case for transport. So far I used it for recording vocals and acoustic guitar and I'm pleased with the results. Worth the $.
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FP
I’ve used it on vocals mostly
Very good quality and balanced .
Bought this one instead of the XLII because it’s more versatile. If you are going to record vocals you may want to go for the XLII but in my opinion both are just fine.
Bought this one instead of the XLII because it’s more versatile. If you are going to record vocals you may want to go for the XLII but in my opinion both are just fine.
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A
Simply the best
It’s a 414, what else can I say!
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SS
Perfect honest and detailed sound
The silver 414 always works. Especially on acoustic guitar and background vocals. If your room acoustics are well dialled (as they should be), this mic will really shine in bringing a natural and believable render of the source. Prices and service at Thomann are second to none.
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GA
AKG C414, the legendary mic
excellent sound for large diaphragm all around mic in a reasonable price and with many options like polar patterns, pad and filters.
If you use the case it comes with it is not very balanced and the case can fall back when it is wide open
If you use the case it comes with it is not very balanced and the case can fall back when it is wide open
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j
A great classic
Love it. Much better than my previous (budget) AKG. Lots of polar patterns to play with although I use regular cardiod pattern for most of the time. No hi frequency bump that can plague the more budget oriented condensers.
A bit on the expensive side (for me) but worth it every cent.
A bit on the expensive side (for me) but worth it every cent.
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S
Great
The AKG C414 XLS is a great and versatile microphone. Detailed and transparent, this is why I’ve chosen it.
For vocals, however, the C414 XLS often requires more post-production compared to some microphones that already have a polished or flattering character. Its neutral nature captures everything, which is great for flexibility, but you may need additional EQ, compression, and de-essing to achieve a finished vocal sound.
Overall, it’s a fantastic all-around microphone and a great studio investment, especially if you record a variety of sources. Just be prepared to spend a bit more time shaping vocal tracks in the mix.
For vocals, however, the C414 XLS often requires more post-production compared to some microphones that already have a polished or flattering character. Its neutral nature captures everything, which is great for flexibility, but you may need additional EQ, compression, and de-essing to achieve a finished vocal sound.
Overall, it’s a fantastic all-around microphone and a great studio investment, especially if you record a variety of sources. Just be prepared to spend a bit more time shaping vocal tracks in the mix.
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A
Just beautiful!
Love this microphone, simply.
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M
Legendary Microphone
My favourite choice for multiple tasks in the studio. Warm and crisp sound on vocals, overheads, acoustic instruments, guitar amps, percussion. Especially in combination with a good preamplifier the results are flawless
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