AKG 414 Mic

[VH4_BigRig]

Hey guys, I was just wondering if anybody has used an AKG 414 to record a Diezel, and if so what your thoughts were? If you used one, where did you place it in front of the speaker? Thanks!

 

[nbarts]

Like with any condenser 6" to a few ft away from the speaker, off the center. The rest depends on what exactly you are trying to achieve. That said condenser wouldn't be my choice to mic a cabinet.

 

[synchu]

I wouldn't say so A lot of great sounding records have been issued with condensers' mic'ed cabs (Extreme's III sides to every story comes to mind with using Klaus Heine moded U87 Neumanns, most of the other Extreme records used condensers, as well).

However, AKG 414 is rather on the bright side and can sound a bit harsh. C412 is another story, but they not make'em any more

 

[Jakob]

I find it to be too harsh, too. Actually, it has no real character to it, it's just darn honest. It doesn't color, it just pictures what it gets.

It's great on vocals and acoustic guitar.

I used Royer 121 ribbons for our recordings, plus the trusty SM 57. Ribbon mikes are perfect for distorted guitars, look for a deal on eBay and you'll be surprised of the warmth and character.
Totally different from condensers.

 

[Audioholic]

414 is a great mic, a studio staple, I am sure you can make it work

 

[nbarts]

I wouldn't say so A lot of great sounding records have been issued with condensers' mic'ed cabs (Extreme's III sides to every story comes to mind with using Klaus Heine moded U87 Neumanns, most of the other Extreme records used condensers, as well).

However, AKG 414 is rather on the bright side and can sound a bit harsh. C412 is another story, but they not make'em any more

Yes, but it still wouldn't be my choice

 

[steppenwolf3080]

I like condenser mics on cabs, but as room mics a few feet away. That only works with a good sounding room of course. Try it a few feet away and position it with your headphones on. You'll find your sweet spot! I recently saw a concert on DVD, the three stacks of the guitarist were miced with U87s, awesome sound and they were close to the grill...
I don't like the SM57. It's ok to use the standard but and don't like its boxey sound...
Matter of taste, of course

 

[eddyrox]

Check out the Audix I5 - killer tones with the Herbert

 

[wolfeman28]

Check out the Audix I5 - killer tones with the Herbert

One of my favorite mics, next to the SM57.... They are pretty much twins, but the i5 is just a tad different.

The i5 sounds great as the top mic on a snare too, way better than a SM57(the 57 still works better on the bottom though)