Audio-Technica: a selection of microphones

Microphones that are popular among podcasters, YouTube personalities, journalists, voiceover artists and more were in Audio-Technica’s luggage when the company went to NAB 2017. Discover here the collection of solutions. Maybe you’ll find the microphone you need!

Designed for DSLRs and other video cameras, taking your sound to a level of quality well above the quality the camera’s internal microphone can offer, the AT8024 is suited for video production, in-field interviews, product demos – wherever capturing high-quality audio for video is the task at hand. Selectable cardioid mono and internally matrixed mid-side stereo modes provide the flexibility to focus the recording on a single sound source or to widen the field for outstanding sonic realism, while selectable filters and pads extend its flexibility.

This camera-mount microphone also comes equipped with a three-position adjustable attenuator (-20 dB, -10 dB, 0 dB) to capture even soft and very loud sound passages without distortion. A switchable low-frequency roll-off reduces pickup of undesired ambient noise, room reverberation and mechanically coupled vibrations. The AT8024 microphone is powered by a single AA battery for optimal performance with high max SPL, and features an integral camera shoe mount that attaches quickly to DSLRs and shoe-equipped camcorders. Price? $249.

Also showed at NAB 2017, the cardioid condenser microphone AT2020USBi, which costs $199, is suited for tasks including podcasting, remote streaming into IOS devices and voiceover use. Modeled after the critically acclaimed AT2020, this digital output mic features an A/D converter with up to 24-bit/96 kHz sampling.  The microphone works with both USB and Lightning cables (included), so you can use it straight from the box to digitally capture audio on the device of your choice: PC, Mac or Lightning equipped iOS device. The integrated gain control adds to the convenience, allowing you to adjust the input level directly on the microphone.

From the same family, the AT2020USB+, priced at $149, is suited for podcasting, home studio recording, streaming and voiceover use. Equipped with a USB output, the AT2020USB+ adds a built-in headphone jack with volume control that allows direct, delay-free monitoring, with a mix control that blends microphone and pre-recorded audio. The cardioid mic supports 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz sampling rates.

While the two solutions above are for home and studio use, the System 10 Camera-mount Wireless system is designed for video production, electronic news gathering (ENG) and mobile applications, anything where you’ve to capture media on the go. Available in handheld, lavalier and body-pack configurations, each System 10 Camera-Mount wireless system includes a camera shoe mount in addition to the receiver and transmitter. The receiver features multiple mounting options to accommodate a variety of cameras and recording devices.

Like all of the products in the System 10 digital wireless family, the Camera Mount provides three levels of diversity assurance: frequency, time and space. Instantaneous channel selection, sync and setup make the Camera-Mount extremely easy to use, while its digital 24-bit/48 kHz wireless operation provides the ultimate in sound quality and dependable performance. Audio-Technica adds that, as the receiver operates in the 2.4 GHz range, it remains completely free from TV interference at all times.  Prices go from $379.95 to $449.95, depending on configuration.

Delivering clear and articulate reproduction, ideal for any broadcast application, claims Audio-Technica, the BP40 microphone offers a rich, natural, condenser-like sound from a large-diaphragm dynamic design. The large diaphragm features patented floating-edge construction that maximizes diaphragm surface area and optimizes overall diaphragm performance, while the humbucking voice coil prevents electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Suited for podcasting, streaming and broadcast, the microphone’s optimized capsule placement helps maintain a commanding vocal presence even at a distance, while the multistage windscreen provides superior internal pop filtering. The BP40 broadcast microphone also includes a switchable 100 Hz high-pass filter to provide even more pop protection. The BP40 costs $349.

A solution for those who need an all-purpose microphone is the AT2005USB, built on the heritage of Audio-Technica’s 20 Series line. The new model is designed to take you from the stage to the studio and beyond. Featuring both a USB output and an XLR analog output, the microphone is suited for voice-over-IP and podcasting, but connects with a sound system’s conventional microphone input for use in live performance.

Audio-Technica says that the AT2005USB, which costs only $79,  also offers a quality analog-to-digital converter for excellent fidelity, and a headphone output with level control for monitoring. Its cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear. In fact, it is, the company, adds, “the microphone is ideal for live performance, podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover use.”

“Audio-Technica is pleased to offer its products for content creators,” remarks Gary Boss, Audio-Technica U.S. Marketing Director, Professional Markets. “These products are cost effective and easy to use – even for users who might not have the experience of a seasoned audio professional.”