Home Microphone Comparisons AKG C214 vs. AT4040 – Which Is More Neutral?

AKG C214 vs. AT4040 – Which Is More Neutral?

by Stuart Charles Black

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Hi friend and Welcome!

I have an informative post on the AKG C214 vs. AT4040 for you! Before we get started, grab a snack, sit back, and relax because…

You’ve come to the right place!!

What I will bring you in this review

of each microphone

  1. Ratings/Price
  2. Specifications
  3. Summary
  4. Pros
  5. Cons
  6. Who this mic benefits?
  7. What you will need?
  8. Consensus/Conclusion
  9. Similarities & Differences
  10. Final Word

Now without further ado, let’s get rolling!

AKG C214

Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check B&H! | Check eBay!

In The Box

AKG C214 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

AKG H 85 Universal Shockmount

W214 Foam Windscreen

Metal Carrying Case

Limited 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Specifications

  • Type: Condenser.
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid.
  • Impedance: 200 Ohms.
  • Switches: -20dB pad.
  • Microphone Connector: XLR. What is XLR?
  • Max SPL: 136dB (156dB w/Pad). What is SPL?
  • Signal-to-noise ratio: 81dB (A-weighted).
  • Self Noise: 13dB (A-weighted).
  • Low Cut Filter: 160Hz (-6dB/octave).
  • Pads: -20dB.
  • Color: Matte Grey Blue
  • Weight: 0.62 lbs.
  • Included Accessories: H85 Shockmount, Metal Carry Case
  • Manufacturer Part Number: 3185Z00010

Introduction

If you’re looking for a mic that’s a step up from some of the lower-end models, the C214 might be a good option

Keep in mind some have said that, coming from an MXL 990, they were expecting to be blown away and simply weren’t.

That said, the C214 performs extremely well for rap vocals as well as R&B.

Apparently, it uses the same cardioid capsule as the legendary AKG C414!

The value becomes apparent when people start asking you what professional studio you recorded that gangster rap song in.

While most mics have somewhat of a neutral, flat response, this one doesn’t. It has a touch of warmth to it and is meant to accentuate your vocals a bit.

In other words, it’s not entirely flat or neutral. Here’s a good graph illustrating the point:

Notice the small dip after 1kHz, the rise in the presence regions around 3, and the treble accentuation.

It’s very clear and bright, but not harsh. It is also great for people who don’t speak very clearly on the mic or mumble a little.

This will make some of the other cheaper-end models sound muddy and uncompromising.

A clear exception to this is my favorite budget condenser: The MXL 990.

Observe the differences:

Graph courtesy of Recording Hacks

Notice how the 990 has the treble rise but is mostly flat across the board.

C214

Even turned all the way up it performs exceptionally well. Up to 11 even. 😛

Crank it all the way up, then turn it down a smidgen (or two), and then stand about 8-10 inches away.

Now start rapping or singing, but make sure that the capsule is positioned between your nose and upper lip.

As for construction, this baby was built in Vienna, Austria, and truly performs well.

Its integrated capsule suspension reduces mechanical noise and resonances for even greater sonic accuracy.

It also sports a double mesh and an all-metal grille that protects the capsule and ensures high RF immunity without affecting the mic’s acoustical performance.

It features a modern scratch-resistant finish, a dent-resistant metal grille, and gold-plated XLR output.

Perfect for travel!

It’s also important to note why this is so good for both vocal and instrument applications.

The 20-dB switch allows you to record close up or far away. Close up it can record in very high sound fields;

Up to 156 DB SPL (sound pressure level). For female vocals, it’s also amazing.

The recording is so live that you may have to throw on a hi-pass filter.

Pros

  • Comes with a cradle, pop filter, and a nice carrying case.
  • Great for Rap/R&B vocals.
  • Huge difference in sound from lower-end models.
  • Bright but not exaggerated or harsh. Crisp, clear, thick, natural, and warm.
  • Great for a variety of uses.
  • Extremely durable.

Cons

  • There’s one 2-star review on Amazon (with poor English and grammar), that says it “wasn’t as good as the AT 3035”
  • 2 reviewers from Sweetwater Sound and 1 from Gearslutz said it doesn’t quite have the bass or fullness that they were hoping for.

 

 

Who this mic benefits?

It’s great for:

  • Rappers
  • Vocals
  • Instrumentalists
  • Acoustic guitar
  • Electric guitar
  • Drum overhead
  • Saxophones, etc.

If you’ve ever tried to mike a guitar amp with a Shure SM57 and had trouble finding that sweet spot, then this mic may be your solution.

  • Be aware that a lot of people don’t like it as much for vocals, being that it’s a bit bright.

What you will need?

XLR Cable(s).

48v phantom power via audio interface or preamp.

Like the AT4040, make sure you invest in a good audio interface for this guy.

I’ve heard it pairs well with the Focusrite 2i2 and the Steinberg UR22.

It has been said that the UR22 has better preamps than the 2i2, so it may actually be a better option for a mic of this caliber.

That said, I now own the Universal Audio Volt 2 and love it. It also won an award in 2023!

Some basic knowledge on how to treat a room.

Check out my post on Acoustic Sound Treatment!

More on the last point: This is a condenser mic and a super-sensitive one at that; it picks up everything.

This means that you will need to isolate as much sound from the mic and block out the rest.

Here are some ideas:

    1. Record in a small space, such as a closet.
    2. Turn off all Air conditioners, extraneous noise, as well as ambient noise. Do not record near a window!
    3. Consider using Acoustic Studio Foam, line the walls with old comforters, use a CAD audio acoustic shield, or even record underneath a blanket! It sounds crazy but it works. Check out the video below to see the point illustrated quite humorously.

Consensus/Conclusion

This is a crisp-sounding mic that will make all of your others pale in comparison.

It is also very versatile and does well with most applications.

Namely: Rap, R&B, acoustic guitar, saxophones, drum overheads, and female vocals.

It is bright but not harsh and records crisp and clear.

One of the biggest endorsements I came across was the fact that people will think you recorded in a professional studio setting.


Onto…

Audio Technica AT4040

Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check B&H! | Check eBay!

In The Box

Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Audio-Technica AT8449a Microphone Shockmount (Black)

Microphone Dust Cover

Protective Carrying Case

Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Specifications

  • Type: Condenser.
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid.
  • Output Impedance: 100 Ohms.
  • Switches: -10dB pad.
  • Microphone Connector: XLR.
  • Max SPL: 145dB (155dB w/10dB Pad).
  • Signal-to-noise ratio: 82dB.
  • Self Noise: 12dB.
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 0.79 lbs.
  • Included Accessories: Shock-mount, dust cover, carry case.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: AT4040.

Summary

This is a great all-around work-horse microphone that handles a variety of studio applications with ease.

Its sound is immaculate, and it is also very affordable! 

If you’re a beginner or intermediate, looking to upgrade to something a little better, this may be a good option.

It is mostly neutral, but there’s a peak around 6kHz and another smaller one at 10kHz.

So it won’t color your voice but does provide extra sparkle in the treble regions.

A very versatile mic, this will be an all-around great option for recording vocals, piano, sax, flutes, guitar amps, acoustic guitar, and more.

It has a really clean sound that is easy to work with. It isn’t colored in any way and remains neutral and honest.

As stated above, the sound is very clean, clear, and uncolored for the most part.

It is also very sensitive, picking up everything.

This is pretty standard for all cardioid condensers, so adequate room treatment must be considered.

Vocals

As for vocals, you will be able to hear details in the mix that were previously lost.

One Amazon reviewer said the sound is a close second to a mic that is 10x the cost. A bold statement indeed!

It is one of the few economically priced consumer-grade microphones that can be found in professional studios.

There is no proximity effect here. Get as close to the mic as you want and the clarity still comes through crystal clear.

One guy says it’s probably the best-sounding studio mic he’s used in 26 years of broadcasting.

Very natural sounding, and comparable to the AKG C414 but much more affordable.

As for the build, of course, it’s very rugged and durable.

This has become a staple of the Audio Technica line. Mics ranging from the AT2020, and AT2035, as well as this one, are all similar in aesthetic, and all remain very well crafted.

Pros

  • Silky smooth high end
  • Extremely versatile
  • Warm sounding yet remains flat and neutral
  • Durable and sexy looking
  • Comes with a good case and shock-mount
  • Great for male vocals
  • Longevity. This thing will last you for years given proper care.
  • Built-in hi-pass filter and -10db pad which can tame the low end if it becomes boomy on bass-heavy sources. However, a couple of people on Musicians’ friend said that the lows may be problematic because they have such a heavy impact.
  • Nice boost in the high end which gives it an enjoyable, airy quality.
  • Compares very favorably with a Neumann TLM 102 and 103. Saw quite a few people saying it really holds its own against a Neumann, as well as other higher-priced competitors.

 Cons

  • Recorded through an average preamp the mic sounds a bit harsh. Invest in a good one!
  • It may not like to be pushed too hard and could get distorted and thin in the upper registers.

Who this Mic Benefits?

Pretty much everyone. This is the standout feature of the Audio Technica AT4040. It is a great all-around mic that will handle almost anything you throw at it. I’ve seen it endorsed for all of the following:

  • Vocals
  • Piano
  • Saxophone
  • Acoustic Guitar
  • Amps
  • Flutes
  • Drum overheads
  • Lead vocals/backing vocals
  • Band, orchestra, and chorus concerts
  • Rap, Hip-Hop, and R&B
  • Strings
  • Voiceover/Dialog
  • Brass
  • Field Recording
  • Film/Video production
  • Woodwinds
  • Clarinets
  • Chamber ensembles
  • Gospel

*BUT .. don’t buy this mic expecting it to enhance your voice. It will present to you how it is. 😀 This was a constant in reviews. Expect the tone of it to be true to life.

Not the best for:

  • Rock or Pop vocals

Here’s a beautiful song highlighting the 4040!

What you will need?

This is an XLR condenser mic, so you will need:

  • 48v Phantom Power via an audio interface or some type of mic preamp as mentioned above with regard to the C214.
  • Also, check out my guide on Choosing a DAW! Make sure that your interface or preamp is of a higher quality than the average. This mic needs a little extra love 🙂 The options mentioned with the C214 will do just fine here as well.
  • XLR cable(s) What is the difference between a USB microphone and an XLR microphone?
  • Some sort of sequencing program. You can also use Audacity. It’s free and works like a charm! It’s great for starting out, but don’t rely on it forever. A good step up from it would be Reaper which I also use and love. 
  • Mic stand
  • Pop filter
  • Shock-mount (The AT4040 comes with a good one).

Room Treatment

Also, you will need to treat your room prior to using this, or the mic will probably sound bad.

It is very sensitive which is a good thing but benefits highly from proper sound treatment.

Some ideas:

  • Try to work in an enclosed space, away from windows, fans, A/C units, ambient noise, etc.
  • Use old comforters, or Acoustic Studio Foam to line the walls and absorb the sound.

Basically, anything to encase the sound in and make your voice sound lush and clear.

In other words,

the same video above also applies here!

Consensus/Conclusion

There’s not much else out there in this price range that competes with the likes of this bad boy. You can basically record anything with it, and do it well.

It looks great, the sound is top-notch, and people basically drool over this thing in reviews.

Talking in all caps, swooning over the sound, etc.

If you’re in the market for a mic of this stature, you may want to check it out.

It’s also a nice upgrade from the Audio Technica AT2035, as well as the AT2020.

Similarities & Differences

Similarities

  • They both do well with a wide variety of music.
  • They are both XLR condenser microphones that require 48v phantom power to function.
  • They’re both in a similar price range.
  • Both come with a shock mount and carry case.
  • Both mics have a low-cut filter.

Differences

  • It seems as though the AT4040 is a bit more versatile. I saw a lot more people endorsing it for a wider variety of applications. This could also be due to the fact that the C214 doesn’t have a whole lot written about it (at least in comparison).
  • The look and feel of both are radically different. The 214 has a squared-off retro look in comparison to the traditional design of the AT4040.
  • Both have a dB pad, but the 4040’s is a -10dB while the C214 is a -20.
  • The 4040 is a bit heavier.

Sound

I would say the main difference is that the C214 aims to accentuate your vocals/the presence region, while the AT4040 does not. Both do provide some sparkle up top, but I think the 4040 is a bit more neutral overall.

Here’s a good graph illustrating the point:

Outside of that, these mics are very similar, which leads me to my conclusion:

Closing Thoughts

It’s really hard to recommend one of these over the other, but if I had to choose, I would probably go with the AT4040. Why? It’s got a lot more reviews and information, and I was able to gather more consistent opinions because of that.

The C214 seems like a stellar option as well, but again, there are very limited reviews around the internet.

The people that have it give an almost perfect score.

I’m also recommending the 4040 because it’s so extremely versatile. I was super impressed with all the stuff people said they use to record with it.

The list is endless!

Moreover, it’s consistent. A lot of different people were endorsing it for the same things.

This leads me to believe that it is in fact an amazing all-purpose tool. Considering Audio Technica’s line of mics is extremely solid, I can recommend this entry with the utmost confidence.

 


Well, that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve come away with some valuable information on the AKG C214 vs. AT4040.

Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I leave something out or get something wrong? Contact me or leave a comment below!

Do you agree with my assessment? I would love to hear from you. Until then,

All the best and God bless…

 

 

-Stu

[Xtr@Ba$eHitZ]

Be sure to check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!

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8 comments

Chris August 1, 2016 - 2:46 pm

This seems dumb. Doesn’t sound like the reviewer actually bought and tried these mics firsthand, just read a bunch on the internet about. That isn’t really a review, its just using other peoples work

Reply
Stu August 4, 2016 - 10:57 pm

Hey Chris!

I have to research a product before I buy it just like anyone else. That means I have to read what other people are saying, and come to a consensus and a conclusion on whether or not I should purchase said item. I feel like I have enough information on both of these mics, as I’ve researched them thoroughly. There’s a difference between using other peoples work (plagiarizing), and compiling information for my own work and reference.

I do my absolute best to provide as much info as possible with as many variables as are necessary. I back up what I say with the majority consensus, many different sources, and would never recommend a product to someone that I myself wouldn’t buy. This website is about as transparent as it gets. I’ve had many people stop by (or contact me directly), thanking me for the work I’m doing. I put a lot of time and effort into making sure that what I’m saying isn’t biased towards a particular product. While others may sugar coat their reviews by trying to convince you it’s good by only mentioning the Pros, I lay out all of the information and let YOU decide. I’m like Bill O’Reilly if he was actually honest. Lol.

For instance, if there are 10 people saying that a mic stand for a particular mic is bad, then it’s safe to say that the mic stand is bad. Why do I need to purchase the product myself to find out that information when I can just do 5 seconds of research? Would I buy the product after finding that out? Probably not, because I already have what I need as the basis for my decision.

This example could be applied to anything, and in the case of my articles, is. Honestly, I don’t need to buy a mic to know if it’s good. I intuitively know which ones are worth buying and which aren’t, because of my due diligence. I’ve been researching a lot of these same mics for nearly 2 years. When I do decide to purchase another one, it will be backed up by solid information rather than a knee jerk reaction. That’s what the whole purpose of this website is, to prevent people from making rash decisions. People come to my site looking for information, and that’s what I provide. I’m essentially applying my own method of research for others. Now does that mean I’m never going to try out these mics for myself? Not at all. I’m always in the market for a new piece of gear, but the process of deciding has to be sound, not made on a whim.

You’re the very first person that’s come here with a negative word on how I review. But I thank you for stopping by anyhow. Feel free to Contact me at any time.

Blessings,

-Stu

Reply
Carlo February 24, 2018 - 12:51 pm

This review is very helpful, chris, what more do want from the guy?

Reply
Stuart Charles Black February 26, 2018 - 10:41 pm

He just wanted to try and get under my skin is all. It didn’t work. I’m confident in what I do here and so are 99% of my readers. The testimonials, emails, and comments speak for themselves. Thanks for stopping by!

Reply
Dan April 28, 2018 - 6:48 pm

Love the work man! I own a 4040 and love it.

I was actually reeeeeaaaaaally hoping you could do an at 4040 vs at 4050 review sometime (in fact I keep checking back here to see if you’ve done it lol). man that would be sweet!

Cheers,
Dan

Reply
Stuart Charles Black April 28, 2018 - 7:41 pm

Thanks much!

I will def write that down and keep it in mind. I’ll contact you once the article is live!

Blessings,
-Stu

Reply
Cooper-Moore January 5, 2020 - 8:57 pm

The 4040 that I own does have a low cut filter.

Reply
Stuart Charles Black January 8, 2020 - 5:24 pm

Thank you for the head up Cooper! I have edited the article to reflect that. How are you liking your 4040? I see you’re into Jazz?

Reply

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