Audio Technica AT4050 Condenser Microphone

by Audio-Technica

Product Features

• Cardioid, omnidirectional, or figure-8 operation, switchable
• The 2-micron-thick, vapor-deposited gold diaphragms undergo a five-step aging process so that the optimum characteristics achieved remain constant.
• Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients
• Dual gold-plated, aged, large-diaphragm condenser elements
• 20Hz-20kHz response

Product Details

• Item Weight: 3.4 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 3.4 pounds
• ASIN: B0002EK70W
• Item model number: AT4050
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #24,675 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments)

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

The 40 Series is a premium line of condenser microphones specially engineered to meet the most critical acoustic requirements of professional recording, live sound and broadcast. Select a model number for detailed product information. The AT4050 features:

• Transparent uppers/mids balanced by rich low-end qualities combine with advanced acoustic engineering for extensive performance capabilities and highest quality
• Dual-diaphragm capsule design maintains precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range of the microphone
• The 2-micron-thick, vapor-deposited gold diaphragms undergo a five-step aging process so that the optimum characteristics achieved remain constant over years of use
• Three switchable polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-of-eight
• Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients
• State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics ensure compliance with A-T's stringent consistency and reliability standards
• Switchable 80 Hz hi-pass filter and 10 dB pad
• Includes AT8449 shock mount

Specifications:

• Element: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-of-eight
• Frequency Response: 20 - 18,000 Hz
• Open Circuit Sensitivity: -36 dB (15.8 mV), re 1V at 1 Pa
• Impedance: 100 ohms
• Maximum Input Sound Level: 149 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 77 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
• Dynamic Range (Typical): 132 dB, 1 kHz at Max. SPL
• Phantom Power Requirements: 48V (+/- 4V)
• Low Frequency Roll Off: 80 Hz, 12 dB per octave
• Switches: Polar pattern; 10 dB pad; roll-off
• Weight: 18 ounces
• Output Connector: XLRM-type
• Accessories Furnished: AT8449 shock mount; microphone dust cover; protective case

Product Description

The Audio Technica AT4050 multi-pattern condenser microphone is like getting three completely different microphones for the price of one! Meet the studio condenser that captures every nuance. With three switchable polar patterns, the large-diaphragm Audio-Technica AT4050 exhibits a remarkable combination of qualities: high-SPL capability with transparent and airy uppers/mids complemented by rich low-end qualities. Its dual large diaphragms are gold-vaporized and aged for consistent, outstanding performance. A precision-machined, nickel-plated brass acoustic element baffle provides rock-solid element stability and exceptional sensitivity. Ideal for studio use and live sound productions with vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitar amps, and more. Audio Technica AT4050 Features Transparent uppers/mids balanced by rich low-end qualities combine with advanced acoustic engineering for extensive performance capabilities and highest quality Dual-diaphragm capsule design maintains precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range of the microphone The 2-micron-thick, vapor-deposited gold diaphragms undergo a five-step aging process so that the optimum characteristics achieved remain constant over years of use Three switchable polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-of-eight Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics ensure compliance with A-T's stringent consistency and reliability standards Switchable 80 Hz hi-pass filter and 10 dB pad Custom shock mount provides superior isolation

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good, Versatile Microphone, February 22, 2010

By 

Gordon K (Pacific Northwest) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Audio Technica AT4050 Condenser Microphone

I've been using this microphone for years. I have two of them, actually. I didn't buy them as a matched pair, so one is a bit brighter sounding than the other. That can be an advantage, as I use the darker mic for overly bright sound sources, and vice-versa. I've used these mics with good results in my project studio, on vocals, guitars, and hand percussion, and actually earned a major film festival award for music I created in that studio. I think the mics sound particularly good on female voices (as a number of reviewers have noted). The figure-of-eight pattern offers the flattest response curve, and I almost always use that for vocals. (The cardioid and omni pattern give more treble/upper mids boost--useful for some applications, but a little harsh on my voice.)

Bottom line: This is a well-made, versatile microphone that will do pretty much anything you ask of it.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Mic, December 16, 2011

By 

TomVette "TomVette" (N. Texas) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Audio Technica AT4050 Condenser Microphone

This microphone has great resolving power and produces a wonderful neutral but detailed recording of almost anything it is pointed at. This model is also multi patterned and very versatile. It blends well with th AT4033a as well as the Shure SM81. Highly recommended if you are looking for a faithful recording that does not provide significant coloration. Construction is first rate with a black finished solid brass body and excellent electronics and workmanship throughout.