I am a massive fan of the AKG 414, but as a student and freelance engineer this mic is out of my price range. The C214 is a cardioid only version of the 414, that is more affordable, sounds great, and is a versatile mic. I have two C214's and have used them as drum overheads, as vocal mic's, on guitar cabs, acoustic guitars, violins and melodicas. The C214 has a -20dB pad on the side which i've found useful when using them as overheads, and the low cut switch rolls off some of the lower frequencies, which is useful when close mic'ing amps. The C214 comes in a small AKG hardcase and it's spider shock mount is flexible for positioning and mic placement. If you're looking for a versatile and quality sounding cardioid condenser, which won't break the bank, I highly recommend the C214.