AKG C214 Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£290
  • Connection type: XLR
  • Transducer type: condenser
  • Max SPL: 136 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: N/A kHz
  • Output connector type: XLR

AKG C214 review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

6.7

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

5.8

Technical Score

25.0%

9.4

User score

Good
5.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

9.0

Audio Performance

20.0%

4.0

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

7.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

6.8

Design

3.0%

7.9

Accessories

Good
9.4

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(1281)
amazon
4.6
(19)
amazon
4.0
(11)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(1339)
Amazon_logo.png
3.3
(22)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(5)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    20.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    4.0

    RGB lighting

  • 6.9
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    ?

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    ?

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 10
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 3.6
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    4.0

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    4.0

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    4.0

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    4.0

    Mute function

    15.0%

    1.0

    Volume control levels

  • 9.2
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    ?

    Weight

    25.0%

    10

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    10

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    9.1

    Height

    10.0%

    9.1

    Width

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The AKG C214 is a professional large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone that utilizes a 1-inch edge-terminated capsule based on the legendary C414 family. Its technical specifications include a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz, a switchable 20dB attenuation pad, and a 160Hz low-cut filter with a 6dB/octave slope. It offers an impressive dynamic range of up to 143dB and can handle maximum sound pressure levels (SPL) of 156dB with the pad engaged, while maintaining a low self-noise floor of 13dBA. Main pros include its robust all-metal die-cast construction, clear and detailed high-end presence, and versatile performance on vocals and acoustic instruments. However, potential cons include its lack of multiple polar patterns compared to the C414 and a prominent top-end boost that some users find overly bright or sibilant on certain sound sources.

Technical Specifications of AKG C214

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

9.0

Audio Performance

20.0%

4.0

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

7.0

Controls & Features

10.0%

4.0

Power

7.0%

7.2

Compatibility

5.0%

5.2

Connectivity

3.0%

6.8

Design

3.0%

7.9

Accessories

5.8
AKG C214 has a technical score of 5.84 points, which is lower than 85.9% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.1

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(1281)
amazon
4.6
(19)
amazon
4.0
(11)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(1339)
Amazon_logo.png
3.3
(22)
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(5)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.4
AKG C214 has a user score of 9.4 points, which is higher than 82.9% of microphones.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
10
AKG C214 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 69.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.7

Overall score

40.0%

9.0

Price

7.4
AKG C214 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.4 points, which is lower than 79.4% of products in this category.
Microphone type
What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.
When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio
Transducer type
What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.
When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

condenser
Diaphragm size
What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.
When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

25.4 inch / mm
Capsule type
What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.
When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single
Sensitivity
What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.
When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-34 dBV/Pa
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Connection type
What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

XLR
Output connector type
What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

XLR
Headphone output
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not include a headphone output. 63.5% of microphones include this output.
3.5 mm audio jack
What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.
When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not include a 3.5 mm jack. 63.3% of microphones include this connector.
6.35 mm audio jack connector
What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.
When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
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Supported sample rates
What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Supported bit depths
What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.
When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Audio interface sample rate
What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.
When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Audio interface bit depth
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)
What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.
When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
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N. of polar patterns
What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.
When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by AKG C214 is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
Cardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.
When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG C214 supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
Omnidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.
When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG C214 does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Hypercardioid pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.
When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
Bidirectional pattern
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.
When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
Mute function
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG C214 does not include a mute function. 68.3% of microphones include this control.
Onboard gain control
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG C214 does not include onboard gain control. 51.5% of microphones include this control.
Volume control levels
What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.
When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

0
AKG C214 offers volume output of 0 which is lower than that of 65.1% of microphones and equal to that of 34.9% of microphones.
Flat DSP mode
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.
When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not support a flat DSP mode. 25.5% of microphones offer this processing option.
DSP presets
What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.
When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

0
AKG C214 offers 0 DSP presets, which is equal to 83.4% of microphones.
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Phantom power required
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
AKG C214 does not require phantom power. 9.1% of microphones also operate without phantom power.
Phantom power voltage
What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.
When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

12-52 V
USB bus-powered
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
AKG C214 does not support USB bus power. 86.4% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
Battery life
What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.
When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Height
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

160 mm
AKG C214 is 160 mm tall, which is shorter than 73.3% of microphones and equal in height to 3.6% of microphones.
Width
What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.
When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

56 mm
AKG C214 is 56 mm wide, which is narrower than 47.5% of microphones and equal in width to 4.1% of microphones.
Thickness
What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.
When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

55 mm
AKG C214 is 55 mm thick, which is thinner than 52.1% of microphones and equal in thickness to 3.7% of microphones.
Weight
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

?
Body material
What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.
When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal
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Included accessories
What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.
When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

shock mount; windscreen; carrying case
Shock mount included
What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG C214 includes a shock mount. 49.5% of microphones include this accessory.
Pop filter included
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 does not include a pop filter. 61.4% of microphones include this accessory.
Windscreen included, but no pop filter.
Windscreen included
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG C214 includes a windscreen. 31.3% of microphones include this accessory.
Cable length
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Android compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 is not compatible with Android. 66.3% of microphones are compatible with Android.
iOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 is not compatible with iOS. 61.8% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
Windows compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.
When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG C214 is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
Requires audio interface.
macOS compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.
When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

yes
AKG C214 is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
Requires audio interface.
Xbox compatibility
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.
When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

no
AKG C214 is not compatible with Xbox. 2.3% of microphones are compatible with Xbox.
Reported as not compatible with Xbox.
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AKG C214 vs the average microphone

  • Includes high-pass filter
    AKG C214 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
    When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • 14 dB SPL higher limit
    AKG C214 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (136 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
    With 20 dB pad: 156.
    What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
    When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (136 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.136 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • Includes pad switch
    AKG C214 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a pad switch for lowering input sensitivity.
    When it matters: When loud singers, drums, or guitar amps would otherwise overload the input stage.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • 26.5 dB wider dynamic range
    AKG C214 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (123 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    143 with -20 dB pad.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (123 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.123 dB vs 96.5 dB
  • Supports balanced output
    AKG C214 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
    When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • 3 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    AKG C214 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (81 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
    Derived from 13 dBA self-noise.
    What it is: The ratio between the useful audio signal and background noise produced by the microphone path.
    When it matters: When you record in untreated rooms and want the voice to stay cleaner than the background noise.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (81 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.81 dB vs 78 dB
  • Includes shock mount
    AKG C214 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.
    When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes windscreen
    AKG C214 includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
    When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
  • 14 dB SPL higher limit
    AKG C214 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (136 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • 26.5 dB wider dynamic range
    AKG C214 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (123 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • 3 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    AKG C214 has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (81 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
  • Supports balanced output
    AKG C214 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes high-pass filter
    AKG C214 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes pad switch
    AKG C214 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
  • 25 mm shorter body
    AKG C214 is shorter than the average microphone (160 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
  • Includes shock mount
    AKG C214 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes windscreen
    AKG C214 includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
  • No headphone output
    AKG C214 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
  • No 3.5 mm jack
    AKG C214 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    AKG C214 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    AKG C214 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    AKG C214 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    AKG C214 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    AKG C214 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • 12 older release date
    AKG C214 is older than the average microphone (2,008 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
    June 2008.
  • No pop filter
    AKG C214 does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
    Windscreen included, but no pop filter.
  • Not compatible with Android
    AKG C214 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    AKG C214 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • No zero-latency monitoring
    AKG C214 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
    When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
  • No gain control
    AKG C214 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
    When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
  • No mute function
    AKG C214 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
    When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
  • No USB bus power
    AKG C214 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
  • Requires phantom power
    AKG C214 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.
    When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AKG C214 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
  • Not compatible with iOS
    AKG C214 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.
    When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
  • Not compatible with Android
    AKG C214 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
    When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
  • No headphone output
    AKG C214 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.
    When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

    Importance: LOW

    AKG C214 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.

Graphic comparison of AKG C214 and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about AKG C214?

  • Clear, bright, and detailed sound signature with a sparkling high end
  • Excellent build quality featuring a rugged, all-metal die-cast body
  • Versatile for various applications including vocals, acoustic guitars, and drum overheads
  • Handles high sound pressure levels (up to 156dB with pad) for loud instruments
  • Includes essential accessories such as a hardshell carrying case, shock mount, and windscreen
  • More affordable alternative to the legendary AKG C414, sharing similar design traits
  • Useful onboard features like the -20dB attenuation pad and a 160Hz low-cut filter

What customers dislike about AKG C214?

  • Fixed cardioid polar pattern lacks the multi-pattern flexibility of the C414
  • High-end boost can sound overly bright, brittle, or harsh on certain voices and instruments
  • Low end can feel under-represented or thin for users seeking a warmer, bass-heavy sound
  • Some users find the high-frequency response leads to prominent sibilance (harsh 's' sounds)
  • Sensitive condenser nature picks up significant room and background noise in untreated spaces
  • The included H85 shock mount is sometimes noted as feeling less sturdy or fragile compared to the mic itself

Expert reviews

P
podcastage.com
19/03/2026

In his review for Podcastage, Bandrew Scott evaluates the AKG C214, a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed as an entry-level alternative within the famous C414 family. The microphone features a fixed cardioid polar pattern, a switchable 20dB attenuation pad, and a high-pass filter that rolls off at 160 Hz. On the positive side, Scott notes that the microphone is highly...Read more

S
soundref.com
15/06/2023

The AKG C214 is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed as a budget-friendly alternative to the famous C414 series, retailing for under $400. It features an impressive frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, utilizing a 1-inch dual-diaphragm electret capsule to deliver a classic "scooped" sound that brings out rich lows and a sparkling, detailed high end. Designed with a...Read more

G
gearspace.com
02/08/2015

The Gearspace review highlights the AKG C214 as a versatile, cost-effective large-diaphragm condenser mic praised for exceptional sound quality on sources like drums, vocals, and acoustic instruments. While debates exist regarding its capsule lineage, the review asserts its superior performance provides excellent value, regardless of its connection to the C414 series. Gearspace Key...Read more

M
musicradar.com
12/09/2008

The AKG C214 is a mid-priced, large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed and built in Vienna, Austria, operating as a highly capable studio all-rounder. Featuring a single cardioid pickup pattern and a 1-inch edge-terminated capsule, it delivers a highly detailed, up-front sound with an impressive 143dB dynamic range and a remarkably low self-noise of 13dB(A). The all-metal...Read more

A
audiotechnology.com
01/09/2008

The AKG C214 is a durable, fixed-cardioid, large-diaphragm condenser designed to offer the sonic character of the C414 family at a mid-tier price point. It excels at capturing high-pressure sound sources, such as electric guitars and drum overheads, due to its integrated capsule suspension and a switchable -20dB pad allowing for up to 156dB SPL. While providing a tight, flat low-end...Read more

B
bonedo.de
18/12/2009

The AKG C 214 is a professional large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed as a budget-friendly, cardioid-only version of the legendary C 414. Built with a highly durable, road-ready all-metal housing, it features a one-inch single-diaphragm capsule based on the classic C 414 design. The microphone includes practical features like a switchable -20 dB pre-attenuation pad for...Read more

D
delamar.de
11/08/2014

The AKG C214 is a cardioid large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed primarily for recording vocals and speech, serving as an affordable alternative to the legendary C414 standard. Built with a highly durable metal housing, a rigid double-mesh grille, and an internally shock-mounted capsule, it effectively reduces handling noise even before using the included plastic shock...Read more

F
fr.audiofanzine.com
19/06/2009

Here is a detailed summary of the review: Review Summary The AKG C 214 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed to offer the performance of the legendary C 414 B-XLS at roughly half the price by featuring a single capsule and a fixed cardioid polar pattern. The microphone shares the iconic design language of its predecessor with slightly smoother, rounded edges, and boasts...Read more

S
studio-microphone.com
[Non daté]

The AKG C214 is a highly versatile, large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed as an affordable alternative to the legendary C414, sharing the exact same capsule design. Built entirely from rugged die-cast metal with a scratch-resistant finish and a double-mesh grille, it handles a wide dynamic range of 143 dB and a maximum SPL of up to 156 dB when the pad is engaged....Read more

P
projethomestudio.fr
06/06/2025

In his review for Projet Home Studio, Adrien evaluates 14 studio microphones tailored for vocal and singing tracking. The selection targets home studio environments, consciously excluding prohibitively expensive gear in favour of cost-effective, "sure bet" alternatives. The reviewed microphones span dynamic and large-diaphragm condenser models. They are primarily evaluated based on...Read more

Z
ziggysono.com
22/06/2009

This live performance and home-studio review by user Ziggy highlights the AKG C214 as an excellent, budget-friendly workhorse microphone that delivers exceptional value for its price. The reviewer notes that while it is often compared to its high-end sibling, the AKG C414, it is not simply a fixed-cardioid version at half price. In live scenarios, the C214 stands out for its...Read more

Z
zikinf.com
10/01/2016

The forum review on Zikinf highlights that while the AKG C214 inherits a capsule from its legendary sibling, a side-by-side comparison reveals a clear sonic division between the two microphones. The flagship AKG C414 XL II stands out as a versatile, "all-terrain" studio powerhouse that excels at tracking acoustic instruments and orchestral setups. Its primary pros include...Read more

C
clarinette.net
10/01/2016

AKG C214 vs. AKG C414 XLII Review Summary The forum review offers a practical, real-world comparison between the AKG C414 XLII and its affordable sibling, the AKG C214, using identical takes of a steel-string acoustic guitar and a clarinet. The AKG C414 XLII stands out as a highly precise, "all-terrain" studio standard known for its multiple polar patterns and a distinct 3 kHz...Read more

F
fr.audiofanzine.com
15/01/2023

The AKG C214 is a highly popular large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed as an affordable, cardioid-only version of the legendary C414. User reviews highlight its excellent build quality, robust metal construction, and the inclusion of useful accessories like a protective carrying case, a windscreen, and a shock mount. It is widely praised for its exceptional versatility in...Read more

Video reviews

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