STOW, OH, November 4, 2008. Audio-Technica debuts three new shotgun microphones: the BP4071, BP4071L and BP4073 Line + Gradient Condenser models. Designed for critical extended-range pickup in broadcasting, film/TV production and theater sound reinforcement applications, these high-performance mics offer extremely focused pickup throughout the entire frequency range.
Based on extensive in-the-field research and user input, the BP4071, BP4071L and BP4073 microphones are ideal for capturing high-quality audio for documentaries and feature films, wildlife recording and theater sound reinforcement. These highly directional mics offer low self-noise and improved resistance to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI). Their direct-coupled, balanced output ensures a clean signal even in high-output conditions. All three mics require 48V DC phantom power, and feature a switchable 150 Hz high-pass filter and rugged housing made of lightweight structural-grade aluminum alloy.
BP4071 Line + Gradient Condenser
The 15.55″-long BP4071 has been specially created to meet the critical greater-distance pickup demands of broadcasting, film/TV sound, professional recording, wildlife recording and theatrical sound reinforcement. The BP4071 is particularly useful for miking dynamic action in film/TV audio, as well as in “spot” miking techniques in the music studio or theater. The mic provides a noise floor that is hardly measurable, much less audible. It performs consistently in distant miking applications and under the stringent demands of digital recording systems.
BP4071L Line + Gradient Condenser
At 21.22″ long, the new BP4071L is among the longest shotgun microphones on the market today. Originally developed at the request of broadcast professionals, this mic boasts an extremely narrow polar pattern and excellent rejection from the sides and rear of the microphone, along with crisp, intelligible audio reproduction for long-distance pickup. Because of its extremely narrow polar pattern, the BP4071L is particularly useful when capturing a sound source from a desired direction while minimizing unwanted background noise or interference.
BP4073 Line + Gradient Condenser
The BP4073 sets standards in small size and light weight. With an overall length of a mere 9.17″ and weight of only 3.5 oz, the mic adds virtually no heft to the end of a fish pole or the top of a minicam. Additionally, because the BP4073 is shorter than most typical shotgun microphones, it is particularly ideal for use in ENG and field production applications where a more compact camera may be employed.
All three of these mics offer a transformerless design for improved pickup of transients; an extended frequency response; a rugged, lightweight housing; and an integral 150 Hz high pass filter, providing easy switching from a flat frequency response to a low-end roll-off. The roll-off position reduces the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.), room reverberation and mechanically coupled vibrations. Output is via a balanced, low impedance (low-Z) 3-pin XLRM-type connector. The microphones are also fully RoHS-compliant (free from all substances specified in the EU directive on the Reduction of Hazardous Substances). Each mic comes equipped with a professional stand clamp and windscreen, along with a protective carrying case.
The Audio-Technica BP4071, BP4071L and BP4073 Line + Gradient Condenser shotgun microphones will be available January 2009 with U.S. MSRPs as follows:
BP4071 $1,169.00
BP4071L $1,299.00
BP4073 $999.00