AKG C214 Review

AKG C214 Review

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Finding the right equipment is essential in creating the most desirable, high-quality vocal or instrumental output. Whether you’re a serious music enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys creating and experimenting with sound, investing in the best quality microphone is going to see you capturing incredibly detailed, crisp sound and this is where the AKG C214 comes into question.

For musical enthusiasts, the AKG C214 Microphone is highly unlikely to disappoint in satisfying your needs. Whether you’re looking to record vocals or the sounds of a range of instruments, the AKG C214 serves its purpose well as a popular all-round microphone. 

Produced by the popular brand AKG, who has built a reputation for the microphones that they produce, this latest model is praised for being a microphone that can handle pretty much anything. 

Below, we delve into the functioning of this microphone and how well it performs before pinpointing what we like and don’t like to give you the best overview if you are looking to make a purchase.

AKG C214 Review

AKG Pro Audio C214 Professional Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

AKG Pro Audio C214 Professional Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone, Grey

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Specifications

  • 1″ large-diaphragm condenser
  • Frequency range of 20 to 20,000 Hz
  • Cardioid Polar Pattern
  • Dynamic Range: 13db of self noise with a max SPL of 136 dB
  • XLR Connector
  • Integrated suspension
  • 20dB Switchable Attenuator
  • Matt Grey All Metal Design
  • 0.62 lbs in weight

Retailing within an affordable price range, this microphone is the ideal choice for music lovers who are looking for quality without having to break the bank.

As a condenser microphone with a 1″ large-diaphragm, it functions to capture beautifully detailed sounds whether this is vocals or instruments. 

Sharing pretty similar qualities to the C414 which is the previous model produced by AKG, the C214 works to deliver impeccably detailed recordings of lead vocals and solo instruments alike. 

With an impressive dynamic range coping well with 13dB of self-noise and 136 DB of maximum SPL, this microphone is perfect for capturing close up sounds and high output sources in particular. 

When in use, this microphone has a frequency response of 60Hz to 1kHz due to its flat curve design which delivers great accuracy in the output that is captured. If used to capture the sound of an electric guitar, this large frequency range is going to come in particularly handy. 

The frequency range dips between 1kHz and 2.5kHz which eliminates the high pitched sound that can often be heard when attempting to capture the sound of an electric guitar. 

Courtesy of its impressive frequency range, many praise the C214 for being one of the most versatile microphones available on the market, working effectively to capture a range of sounds. 

As a cardioid microphone, when in use the AKG C214 captures the sound in front of the microphone but rejects any sound that can be heard from the back or side of the microphone. Courtesy of its cardioid pickup pattern it is likely to be highly effective when used in a range of settings.

Additionally, this microphone works particularly well with phantom power which eliminates the requirement for bulky power supplies. While the C214 still needs a mixer or preamp to function, the combination of both work to produce excellent quality results. 

An issue for many when it comes to capturing sound via their microphone is the potential disruption caused by mechanical noise and for performers, in particular, this may be the vibration that is often felt on stage. However, thanks to the integrated suspension this issue needn’t be a concern.

Another feature we are particularly impressed with is the 20dB switchable attenuation pad which allows you to capture higher volumes of sound without any distortion or noticeable disruptions to the quality. 

Impressively, this microphone also features a bass roll-off switch which works to remove any background noise that poses any potential risk of spoiling your recording.

For many, the design of their equipment serves particular importance and this is another aspect of the microphone that is particularly favorable.

Sleekly designed with an all-metal die-cast body design, the C214 is robust enough to handle studio and stage settings, working to create high-quality sound output when used in both settings. 

Additionally, this microphone is both scratch and impact resistant too so it is durable enough to withstand the effects of extensive use in different environments. It is also likely to withstand frequent transportation without becoming easily damaged too.

Particularly lightweight at only 0.62 lbs, the C214 is easy to carry to different locations when necessary. 

What do we like about the AKG C214?

It’s affordable – the cost of investing in the best quality recording equipment can soon mount up to be a costly affair. However, the C214 provides a great option for those who are on tighter budgets.

Without compromising on its performance or abilities, the C214 is a versatile microphone that is praised for being a strong competitor on the market.

It’s produced by a reputable brand – AKG is a microphone brand that is praised for producing high quality, stable and durable accessories and microphones. With many popular brands, you often find yourself spending more due to the reputation that surrounds their name.

However, with AKG this isn’t the case, their products remain affordable while leaving you feeling assured that they don’t lack on quality. 

The C214 is durably constructed – For many, their microphone is likely to be subject to frequent use which poses a greater risk of damage occurring as a result.

However, AKG eliminates this concern by providing a microphone that has been robustly and durably constructed to withstand the harshness of extensive day to day use.

A condenser microphone with a high-frequency range – Ideal for studio settings in particular, as a condenser microphone, the C214 works efficiently to capture delicate, high quality sounds for the best results.

This also helps to capture the finer details in each recording. Aside from this, the C214 also has a large diaphragm which works to capture big and beautiful sounds.

It’s very versatile – You often find that particular pieces of equipment excel in one particular area more than others. For example, some microphones are favored for capturing vocals while others perform better at capturing instrumentals.

However, the C214 works well at doing both and is often credited for being a great all-round microphone. Aside from this, it is also suitable for use in both the studio and on stage so you are never limited in where your sound (and microphone) can take you. 

An effective cardioid microphone – As a cardioid microphone, the C214 functions by picking up the sound in the direction in which it is aimed while rejecting any sound that can be heard to the side and rear of the microphone.

For this reason, the C214 is popular for recording vocals in particular as it solely focuses on the noise in front without the distractions of any unwanted noise that surrounds the side and back of the microphone.

What do we dislike about the AKG C214?

The low-frequency response – While the C214 is great for capturing the sounds of acoustic and electric guitars, due to its lower frequency response, it doesn’t work so well when used with electric bass guitars as it can be difficult to actually hear the bass of the guitar. 

This microphone has a single polar pattern – Although this may not be a concern to every user, the C214 only has a singular polar pattern which may leave you a little limited in regards to the sounds that you can experiment with and create. 

The XLR cable isn’t included – Despite this microphone coming equipped with a storage case and universal shock mount, the XLR cable isn’t included and therefore requires an additional purchase.

While this may be an insignificant issue for some due to the inexpensive cost of the microphone itself, it is likely to be particularly inconvenient if you are unaware of this issue before making your purchase. 

Final Thoughts

There is no denying that the C214 has earned a reputation for its great versatility making it an excellent all-round microphone. Not only does it handle vocals particularly well, but it also works effectively in capturing instrumental recordings too and can be used on stage or in the studio. 

Thanks to its durable design, this microphone is an ideal pick for stage performers who often travel to different locations as you can be confident that your product is going to maintain its quality without deteriorating at an immediate pace.

This is further benefited by the addition of the storage case so you know where your microphone is at all times.

As a cardioid microphone, it places greater emphasis on the sound ahead which makes it an ideal choice for those who are looking to capture detailed vocals in particular. However, don’t be put off if you are looking to record instrumental sounds as it serves this purpose particularly well too. 

Despite retailing within a lower price range, this microphone certainly does not compromise on the quality and performance that it delivers working with ease to capture beautiful vocals and instrumental sounds. 

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