AKG C314 Professional Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
Description
AKG C314 Professional Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone
The AKG C314 is a compact yet sonically sophisticated condenser microphone engineered for studio versatility. Its 1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule and selectable polar patterns adapt to vocals, acoustic instruments, room ambience, and ensemble sources—allowing a single mic to cover multiple tracking scenarios. Built with professional-grade construction and powered by phantom voltage, this microphone captures detailed, fatigue-free recordings with excellent off-axis rejection for precise control during the mixing phase.
Design & Build
Weighing just 300 grams and measuring 160 mm in length, the C314 integrates seamlessly into compact home studio setups without sacrificing durability. The all-metal, transparent double-mesh grille protects the capsule while allowing uncolored sound capture, and the balanced XLR 3-pin output connects directly to any standard audio interface with impedance-matched signal delivery.
Recording Capabilities
This microphone delivers an 86 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio and exceptionally low 8 dB-A equivalent noise level, making it ideal for tracking in treated home studios and maintaining clarity on quiet sources. The –20 dB preattenuation pad and 100 Hz bass-cut filter (12 dB/octave) provide real-time control over proximity effect and room resonance during recording sessions, while the 20–20,000 Hz frequency bandwidth ensures accurate capture across the full spectrum for transparent mixing later.
Key Features
- Four selectable polar patterns: Cardioid, Supercardioid, Omnidirectional, and Figure of Eight
- 1-inch dual-diaphragm condenser capsule
- Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 20 mV/Pa
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 86 dB-A
- Equivalent Noise Level: 8 dB-A
- –20 dB preattenuation pad for handling loud sources
- 100 Hz bass-cut filter with 12 dB/octave slope
- Balanced XLR male 3-pin connector
- All-metal transparent double-mesh grille
- Electrical impedance: 200 Ohms
- Phantom power: 44–52 V at 3 mA
The C314 combines technical precision with session-friendly versatility, making it an essential workhorse for home studio owners tracking diverse sources and mobile recording rigs that demand transparent, studio-grade sound.
More Information
| Condition | New |
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Reviews
At a Glance
The AKG C314 delivers transparent, natural recordings with exceptional clarity and low noise (8 dB-A equivalent), making it a go-to choice for home studios tracking vocals, acoustics, and ensemble sources. Its four polar patterns and compact 300-gram design fit tight recording spaces while its –20 dB pad and 100 Hz high-pass filter handle proximity effect and room rumble on the fly. Pick this microphone when you need a single condenser that adapts to multiple recording tasks without sacrificing accuracy or adding fatigue to your mixes.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Studio Sessions
- ✓ Home Recording
- ✓ Vocal Recording
- ✓ Acoustic Instrument Recording
Not the best pick for
- – Live Performance
- – High-SPL Sources Without Pad
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What polar patterns does the C314 offer?
The C314 provides four selectable patterns: cardioid, supercardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight, allowing you to adapt rejection and pickup to different recording scenarios without changing microphones.
Is this microphone suitable for recording loud sources?
The C314 includes a –20 dB preattenuation pad that lets you handle louder sources without distortion, though it is designed primarily for controlled studio and home-recording environments rather than high-SPL live or harsh conditions.
What is included in the box?
The C314 comes with the microphone, all-metal double-mesh grille, and balanced XLR male 3-pin connector; you will need phantom power (44–52 V) from your interface or mixer to operate it.
How does the C314 compare to the AT2020 and Rode NT1-A?
The C314 offers four polar patterns versus the fixed cardioid of those models, plus a built-in pad and bass filter for more on-the-fly control; its 8 dB-A noise floor matches the NT1-A and is slightly lower than the AT2020, and its compact size suits tight studio setups.
What is the noise level, and is it quiet enough for detailed recording?
The C314 delivers an 8 dB-A equivalent noise level and 86 dB-A SNR, making it excellent for capturing quiet vocals, delicate acoustic instruments, and ambient textures in controlled recording spaces without audible hiss.
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