AKG C214 Review
AKG C214 - Overview
AKG C214 - Specifications
- Microphone Type: Condenser
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid
- Diaphragm Size: 1" (25.4mm)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
- Max SPL: 136dB (156dB w/Pad)
- Output Impedance: 200 ohms
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 81dB (A weighted)
- Self Noise: 13dB (A weighted)
- Low Cut Filter: 160Hz (-6dB/octave)
- Pads: -20dB
- Color:Matte Grey Blue
- Connector: XLR
- Weight: 0.62 lbs
- Manufacturer Part Number: 3185X00010
What's in the box?
- H 85 Shockmount
- W 214 Windscreen
- Metal Carrying Case
AKG C214 - PROS
- true 1" high-quality capsule
- capsule internally shock-mounted
- great noise isolation with dual shock absorption
- the flat design makes it easy to capture sources very close
- very high SPL 136db
- available as matched pair
AKG C214 - CONS
- proprietary shock mount
- slightly boosted in the high ends makes it harsh on some voices
- can color the sound
- proprietary shock mount needed
Detailed Review
Frequency Response
The AKG C214's frequency response is relatively flat, rolls off the low-end nicely, and naturally from around 60Hz, or preferably with the 160Hz low-pass filter engaged.
With the low pass engaged, you still get a very natural response, as the attenuation has been implemented rather gently.
There, however, is a noticeable high-frequency enhancement around 15kHz, which can be great to have voices cut through a mix and make them sound more lively. This enhancement definitely will leave you with a more colored sound which you either like or dislike.
AKG C214 Polar Pattern
The AKG C214 has a very well defined and smooth cardioid polar pattern. Its response is very linear while providing greate coverage in front of the microphone.
These characteristics make it easy for your voice talent, and they can feel comfortable moving around in front of the microphone without fear of messing up the recording while being in the zone.
Microphone & Shock Mount Profile
With its flat casing and low profile construction, the AKG C214 lends itself not only to recording voice but also to much up instruments or cabinets from a very close range. No space is wasted due to its flat profile. As a bonus, the shock mount is very low-profile too, which offers excellent flexibility with no compromises.
C214 Capsule
A unique feature of the AKG C214 is its capsule design, or better, its mounting mechanism.
While most microphone designs for studio applications rely solely on an external shock mount, AKG has a patented mounting mechanism that decouples the capsule from the housing. The 4-point internal shock mount plus the external shock mount eliminate almost all unwanted sounds traveling into the sensitive microphone capsule during a recording session.
Best Use Case / Verdict
The AKG C214 is a great microphone that lends itself perfectly to high-quality vocal and instrument recordings.
We, however, think its strength lies mainly in vocal recordings for its colorization of sound. You may like it on instruments but it's not a blind call.
If you, however, depend on clean sessions without fuzz, it might be the perfect microphone for you, given you only need a cardioid microphone or a matched pair.
More Gear Recommendations
Here are some more recommendations for you to check out
Shure Beta27 VS AKG C214
