Audio-Technica proclaims AT5045 to be the ‘ultimate studio condenser’

Described by Audio-Technica as the ‘ultimate studio condenser microphone’, the hand-built AT5045 forms the latest addition to its flagship 50 series of microphones. The manufacturer has also introduced a switchable mono/stereo camera mount microphone for use with DLSR cameras, camcorders and tablets named the AT8024, as well as ATH-MSR7 headphones that blend comfort with high-quality sound for long-listening applications.

The AT5045 condenser is a stick-design, large diaphragm electret instrument microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. Available separately or in pairs, the unit boasts fast transient response, low noise and the ability to handle high SPLs (up to 149dB). It also reportedly produces a very wide 141dB dynamic range making it most suited as an instrument mic for overheads, percussion, acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments in studio environments.

The unit employs a large, rectangular element to improve transient response and increase response bandwidth. The 2µm thick, vapour-deposited gold diaphragm has been artificially aged, which according to the manufacturer, will allow it to retain its sonic quality over ‘years of use’. Additionally, the microphone features an internal shock mount that decouples the capsule from the body, and for additional isolation, a clamp that also allows the mic body to be repositioned and mounted to ⅝-inch-27 thread compatible stands.

The AT8024 is a fixed-charge condenser microphone designed for a wide variety of video applications. The unit offers mono and mid-side stereo modes via the independent line-cardioid and figure-of-eight elements for different recording applications, in addition to two integral rubber shock mounts that isolate the body from vibrations and mechanical camera noise. The mic also comes with an integral shoe horn that is stated to fit nearly all cameras.

The camera mic is powered by a single 1.5V AA battery and features a red/green LED power indicator, a three-position input pad to alter the capsule sensitivity and an 80Hz high-pass filter with flat response or low frequency roll-off to reduce unwanted ambient sound. The unit comes with a permanently attached 1.8m cable with 3.5mm L-type stereo output connection.

Also new from the manufacturer are its ATH-MSR7 headphones, which include features such as memory foam ear-pads and housing designed to mirror the shape of the human ear. An additional swivel arm design is also incorporated as are A-T’s 45mm ‘True Motion’ audio drivers and dual-layer Air-Control Technology to reportedly extend mid-to-low frequencies. The exterior of the models – available in a number of colour options – is constructed from a layered mixture of aluminium and magnesium.

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Web: www.audio-technica.com