I went over to a friend's studio that is selling a lot of older microphones. Amongst them was a 1968 u87i, an AKG c414EB (silver), and a Sony c37a. I spent two hours trying these mics along with their Microtech Gefell um92 1.s. (which blew the socks off every microphone there in terms of detail, depth, and high-end openness and gentleness - even the Sony c37a).

Here is my quandry. I have an old AKG C414 EB that my father used on the radio in the 80s. He gave it to me and when I went to use it, it crackled like hell. I took it to the friendly pro audio electronics shop and the guy took a look and told me I had a little corrosion, he cleaned it, but still the crackling. He called AKG, they suggested it was the capsule. The capsule itself is $350.

I am currently renting an AKG 414 eb with the silver body. I love it, so much so that I have been looking to buy one. There are a few 414 eb's with the black body on ebay, but none with the silver body. Is there a difference between the two? Will I be disappointed with the black body 414 eb?

Thanks,
Jeremy

Last weekend, I had the privelege of recording Drums (a well-maintained 1967 Ludwig 4-piece with brand new Evans heads) in a large renovated barn, with AKG C414 EB's as overheads; All while my Fiance' was out tasting wedding cakes with my mother. What a nice weekend it was.

Anywho, The C414EB's were the silver model, a matched set, in mint condition.

I first started hearing about the 414EB on these forums, (especially how favorably they compared to the new 414's) so when I saw a chance to buy a used one cheap, I grabbed it.

Anyone have any correct info on the differences between current 414UBLS, TLII, and the 414EB. I understand some of the early EBs had C12 capsules? Sonically what's the difference?

thanks,

raregroove