Item: AKG C 214, Studio Microphone
Price: £266 (UK), $349 (US)
Quick Singer Assessment:
With a reduced cost, the AKG C214 has a fairly neutral frequency that work well on most voices. But with only one polar pattern, it is less versatile than the AKG C414.
At a Glance
AKG’s C214 is a large diaphragm condenser microphone that is aimed at the home studio musician. It uses the same capsule as AKG’s C414B microphone – which is often considered a “must-have” mic in top studios – however the cost has been reduced by limiting the microphone to one polar pattern. The C 214 delivers a highly detailed, up-front sound and its cardioid polar pattern makes it a perfect choice for solo vocal and instrumental recordings.
High Notes
The C214 has very low noise and accurately picks up subtle nuances and transients in vocal recordings. It also produces great results on acoustic guitar, producing a bright and articulate sound. It has a low-cut switch that’s effective at removing any excessive bass frequencies. The microphone features a pad switch for recording louder sources and it requires phantom power from a desk or preamp. It comes packaged with a suspension mount and a foam windscreen; all neatly packaged in a metal carrying case.
Off Pitch
Its single polar pattern makes it less versatile than it’s more expensive sibling the C414. Also some singers may prefer a microphone with more obvious character that will enhance their particular vocal sound.
Audio-Savvy Reviewer Says…
The C214 has a largely neutral frequency response with two subtle high frequency boosts (at 3.5 and 12 kHz); this gives recordings a little extra punch. As a result, it works well on a wide range of different voices and instruments and, with a max SPL of 156dB, you could even use it to record drums. If you need an all purpose studio microphone that can also produce great sounding vocal recordings then the AKG C214 comes highly recommended. – Chris Kennedy
Manufacturer’s Website: http://www.akg.com
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Chris Kennedy is a songwriter, producer multi-instrumentalist and freelance journalist from the UK. He has performed extensively over Europe and written and produced over a dozen albums. Chris also has a passion for music technology and was the principal product reviewer and tech expert of the original Voice Council magazine.
