Jul 1, 2008 12:10 PM, By George Petersen

One of the highlights of the recent InfoComm show in Las Vegas was AKG's introduction of the C 214, a lower-cost (cardioid-only) version of its venerable classic C 414, a mic used on countless records over the decades. The new model is a single-capsule, single-diaphragm design that delivers the same sonic performance as its legendary multipattern, dual-diaphragm C 414B-XLS cousin, but at a $649 retail.

"The evolution of the C 414 has been accepted by recording studios, broadcast stations, and live sound engineers," explains AKG product manager Thomas Stubics. "Our new C 214 was designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the leading-edge C 414 family. Because the C 214 uses the same one-inch diaphragm as the C 414, the essence of that heralded C 414 sound has been captured in this newest model."

With its -20dB attenuation pad and ultra-low noise electronics (13 dBA to IEC 60268-4), the Austrian-built C 214 can be used in sound fields as high as 156dB SPL. The C 214 features an integrated capsule suspension to minimize chassis-borne noise and resonances. Also standard is a switchable 160Hz low-cut filter with a -6dB/octave slope. A double-mesh, dent-resistant all-metal grille protects the capsule and ensures high RF immunity without affecting acoustical performance. The C 214's die cast metal body provides road-tough construction quality with a scratch-resistant finish and a gold-plated XLR output. The C 214 is available now and ships with a spider-type shock-mount, windscreen and metal carrying case.

Visit www.akg.com for more information or click here to read/download a C 214 brochure.

For more new product news, go to the Briefing Room.

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