We look into the history of this classic studio microphone and investigate AKG C414 Alternatives to get similar recording results today.
The C414 descended from the legendary C12 and C12A tube mics from the 1960s. Here, the C412 followed soon after, to become the first FET design in this series. Moreover, this late-60s solid-state mic brought the pad and polar pattern switches from the PSU to the mic for more immediacy.
In 1971, the first version of the C414 was launched, adding a hypercardioid pickup pattern to the existing cardioid, omni, and figure-8 patterns from the C412.
AKG C414 Alternatives
One of the defining aspects that became a constant thread throughout the AKG C series microphones was the famous CK12 capsule. As the design evolved, the manufacturer replaced the brass capsule with a nylon 2072-Z-0005 diaphragm that gave the captured signal a darker quality.
In addition, the C414 series was a transformer-based microphone which also added to the mic’s unique sound. If like me, you are lucky enough to own a C414B-ULS or a model prior to it, you’ll know about the difference that the transformer makes in the design.
Buying and using vintage mics comes with both risks and responsibilities that simply aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. However, because it’s such a classic design, there are many modern options that can achieve similar results to one or more mics in the historic C414 series.
Audio-Technica AT4050
When you want a versatile studio workhorse condenser without the price tag of many vintage mic recreations, the Audio-Technica AT4050 is a sure bet.
The AT4050 offers a sound that is both clean and detailed. Furthermore, with its low impedance rating of 100 ohms, you’ll be able to achieve decent recordings running directly into the average audio interface.
It features a dual-diaphragm capsule design, with three selectable polar patterns, including cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8. What’s more, there’s an 80 Hz roll-off switch, to avoid any low-end rumble.
Shure KSM44A
The Shure KSM44A is another versatile option for use in both professional and home studios alike. Its high-frequency range is detailed without delivering a hyped sound sometimes associated with dual-diaphragm mics like this.
It offers excellent speech and vocal intelligibility, making it perfect for modern pop vocal recording. Equally, the KSM44A will also produce excellent results when capturing acoustic guitars.
Aside from its three polar patterns (cardioid, omni, and figure-8), the KSM44A also has two different high-pass filter slope settings. This makes it useable in many different recording applications and stereo miking configurations.
Austrian Audio OC818
A company formed by former AKG personnel, Austrian Audio is extremely passionate about preserving the integrity of designs like the C414.
With the OC818, Austrian Audio has created a multipattern studio condenser with a range of modern features. However, above all it’s equipped with their version of the famous brass CK12 capsule that started it all, the handmade CKR12 ceramic capsule.
In addition, the OC818 features polar pattern customization with Bluetooth control as well as many app-based feature expansions, and dual outputs that allow the two diaphragms to be separately recorded.
AKG C414 XLS and XL II
Do you mean to say that there are two different C414 models still currently available? Well, yes, and we’ll discuss their differences. As the character of the original C414 became darker with the incorporation of the nylon CK12 element, so too can we differentiate the modern C414 iterations.
In accordance with this, the XLS will produce a slightly darker overall tone. Meanwhile, the XL II is characteristically brighter, as it aims to emulate the sound of the original brass CK12 capsule.
Both models are available in stereo sets and offer the same choice of nine polar patterns for a vast range of applications. Remember though, if you only require a cardioid microphone, the C214 is a perfectly suitable option here.
Microtech Geffell UMT 70S
If you’re looking for a top-quality workhorse multipattern FET mic, the Microtech Geffell UMT 70S is a great choice that will easily compete with mics above the $2000 price range.
Although it has a very transparent sound with an ultra-low noise floor, the UMT 70S still maintains a certain vintage character that you simply won’t find in many modern mics in the C414 ballpark.
Give it a go on vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, and just about anything else, and it’s equally good in stereo configurations. Every detail and nuance of the performance is captured cleanly, allowing you to incorporate the UMT 70S in any recording chain or modern post-production workflow.
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Image Sources:
- AKG C414 EB: Recording Hacks
- AKG C414B-ULS: AKG
- Austrian Audio OC818: Thomann
- AKG C414 XLII: AKG
