The 414 has had an interesting past. It began as a 4 polar pattern version of the AKG C12, with both models sharing the CK12 brass capsule. As demand for the microphone grew, a nylon capsule was used to allow for faster mass production.
Both brass and nylon versions of the AKG 414 EB exist, with the brass version regarded as having a more extended ‘airy’ top end. The nylon capsule lacked this upper frequency extension and is generally regarded as having a darker sound in comparison.
Advanced Audio has modelled their CM414 after the original sound of the brass K12 capsule.
In this video, you’ll hear 2 versions of the AKG 414
the AKG 414 XLS (2000s) and the AKG 414 ULS (1980s), go up against the CM 414 from Advanced Audio.
These microphones will be compared against a Advanced Audio CM414 which is modelled after the original AKG 414 EB
Founder of Advanced Audio, Dave Thomas shares his understanding of the 414’s legacy and why he modelled his version after the AKG 414 EB.
