
AKG
AKG C214 Pro Audio Studio Condenser Microphone
★★★★★
Condenser
The AKG C214 delivers the legendary C414 sound in a rugged large-diaphragm condenser built for serious studio recording.
$398.18*
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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
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
What is the difference between the AKG C214 and the C414?
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.
Does the AKG C214 require phantom power?
Yes, the C214 is a condenser microphone that requires 48V phantom power, which is supplied by most audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
What does the 20dB attenuation pad do on the C214?
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.
Does the C214 come with a shock mount?
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.
What polar pattern does the C214 use?
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.