Harman's AKG C 414 XLS and C 414 XL II Earn METAlliance Certification

Harman's AKG has been awarded two METAlliance certifications for both its C 414 XLS and C 414 XL II microphones. The C 414 XLS and C 414 XL II each offer nine pickup patterns, combined with its proven reference quality, leading-edge technology, and state-of-the-art components, to accurately detail acoustic instruments and vocals.

Alongside platforms for research and development, standardization and education, the METAlliance works closely with manufacturers to evaluate and certify products that offer the highest levels of quality in the recording chain. To date, only a handful of products have achieved this accolade. "Harman's AKG HSC and HSD headsets incorporate features that have been directly requested by professional users, and offer excellent comfort, optimum ambient noise reduction and outstanding audio quality," said Thomas Stubics, product marketing manager -- recording and broadcast, AKG. "We've designed the HSC and HSDs with comfort and usability in mind and each set will offer reliable service across the board."

The METAlliance, founded by Chuck Ainlay, Ed Cherney, Frank Filipetti, George Massenburg, Phil Ramone, Elliot Scheiner, and Al Schmitt, is comprised of a group of globally-recognized, award-winning audio engineers and producers who have been deeply involved in establishing techniques and technical standards, which are the foundation of modern music recording.

"AKG 414s have been a mainstay in my recording arsenal my entire career," commented Cherney. "The new 414s have upped the ante. Being able to choose and place a microphone and not have to reach for an equalizer is simply the best."

Scheiner remarked, "I recently tested the new AKG-414s on acoustic piano and as drum overheads. I found them to be beautiful and transparent. I'm positive they'll work in a multitude of situations."

"The new AKG C 414 mics are just great," stated Schmitt, a 24-time nominee and 11-time Grammy Award winner. "So far, I've found them to give me exceptional results with piano and guitar."