AKG

AKG C214 Pro Audio Studio Condenser Microphone

4.6 (1203 reviews)
Condenser

The AKG C214 delivers the legendary C414 sound in a rugged large-diaphragm condenser built for serious studio recording.

$398.18*
In Stock on Amazon.com
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The AKG C214 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that brings the celebrated sonic character of AKG's flagship C414 XLII into a more accessible, single-capsule design. Built around a one-inch edge-terminated diaphragm in a fixed cardioid pattern, the C214 excels at capturing the nuance and detail of lead vocals, acoustic guitars, piano, and other solo instruments. With a frequency response spanning 20 Hz to 20 kHz, an impressive 143dB dynamic range, and an 81dB signal-to-noise ratio, this microphone delivers clean, articulate recordings even in demanding studio environments.

Practical touches make the C214 well-suited for real-world session work. A switchable 20dB attenuation pad lets the microphone handle sources up to 156dB SPL, making it capable of close-miking guitar cabinets, snare drums, and brass without distortion. The bass-cut filter reduces proximity effect when recording at close range, keeping low-end buildup under control. An integrated suspension system inside the body dampens mechanical vibrations, and the included aluminum carrying case protects the microphone between sessions. The all-metal construction and standard XLR connector ensure reliable, professional performance that will serve a studio for years.

Key Features

Sonic Character Of The C414 Xlii For Beautifully Detailed Recording Of Lead Vocals And Solo Instruments

Outstanding Dynamic Range And Ultralow Noise For Close-Up Recording Of High-Output Sources Of Up To 156Db Spl

Switchable 20Db Attenuator And Bass-Cut Filter For Close-Up Recording And Reduction Of Proximity Effect

Integrated Suspension To Reduce Mechanical Noise And Vibration From Stage

Specifications

Microphone Type
Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser
Diaphragm Size
1 inch
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz
Dynamic Range
143 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
81 dB
Maximum SPL
156 dB (with 20dB pad engaged)
Attenuation Pad
Switchable 20 dB
Bass-Cut Filter
Switchable
Connector
XLR
Material
Aluminum
Included Accessories
Aluminum carrying case

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Large-diaphragm capsule derived from the flagship C414 XLII delivers detailed, professional-quality recordings
  • 143dB dynamic range with ultralow noise floor handles everything from whispered vocals to loud instrument sources
  • Switchable 20dB pad and bass-cut filter provide flexibility for close-miking high-SPL sources
  • Integrated suspension system reduces handling noise without requiring a separate shock mount
  • Ships with a durable aluminum carrying case for safe storage and transport

👎 Cons

  • Fixed cardioid pattern offers no polar pattern switching for varied recording scenarios
  • Single-diaphragm design means it lacks the dual-diaphragm versatility of its C414 sibling
  • Requires 48V phantom power, limiting use with portable or battery-powered setups
  • Relatively heavy aluminum body may cause sag on lighter boom stands without proper counterbalancing

Frequently Asked Questions

The C214 uses a single large-diaphragm capsule derived from the C414 XLII, offering a similar sonic character in a fixed cardioid pattern at a lower price point. The C414 adds multiple polar patterns and additional controls.
Yes, the C214 is a condenser microphone that requires 48V phantom power, which is supplied by most audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
The switchable 20dB pad reduces the microphone's sensitivity, allowing it to handle extremely loud sources up to 156dB SPL without distortion—useful for close-miking guitar amps, drums, and brass instruments.
The C214 features an integrated suspension system to reduce mechanical noise and vibration. It also ships with a rugged aluminum carrying case for transport and storage.
The C214 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern, which captures sound primarily from the front while rejecting off-axis noise—ideal for isolating vocals and solo instruments in a studio setting.