Tag Archives: Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica Microphones at Beijing’s Winter Sports Broadcast



Audio-Technica s delighted to once more be supporting the host broadcaster of China’s most significant live sporting event this winter with an exceptional number of microphones, headphones and associated accessories.

For some 26 years, Audio-Technica has been providing innovative audio acquisition solutions to the biennial global broadcasts that cover multiple sporting disciplines across many different and varied venues, played out over two weeks of intense physical action.

Camera positions are often set up with Audio-Technica’s shotgun microphones; at Beijing there are 700, with the majority being BP4027 & BP4029 stereo models in order to deliver an enhanced soundscape.

Microphone innovation can be found in multiple locations that call for competition on ice, such as speed skating, ice hockey and figure skating, where approximately 60 pieces of AT880b contact microphones are sunk into the ice fields before being frozen, to pick up the often subtle sound of competitors’ skates.

Bringing the tactics, action and excitement of curling to the home is handled by over 50 channels of ATW-5000 Series wireless belt-pack microphone systems, often working continuously for up to 13 hours per day in what can be a challenging competition environment, both in terms of temperatures and radio frequency planning.

A long-running signature of the sports broadcasts is the detail of a venue’s “ambient” sound, delivered in 5.1 surround, which relies on a combination of AT4050 mono and AT4050ST stereo large diaphragm microphones, often hung from high in venues, as well as the more recent introduction of a pair of stereo BP4025 microphones fitted to a custom windshield mount in a 4.0 setting. In total there are over 200 of these ambient microphones throughout the various competition sites.

U851R boundary microphones, in special “winter white” colors, BP899 & BP898 lapel microphones hidden discretely around the fields of play, and a healthy quantity of in-ear E-Series monitors and Mx-Series headphones help complete the extensive inventory delivered by Audio-Technica into the host city.

Finally, making a second appearance, after their inaugural success in Tokyo last summer, are 14 of Audio-Technica’s prototype 8.0 Microphones, each consisting of eight 12mm diameter microphone elements. The 8.0 microphones form part of the host broadcaster’s immersive audio program delivery package, mixed with real-time in this fast-paced live sports environment; they all contribute to delivering close-up action and encompassing audio experience of each sporting discipline.


Audio-Technica Partners with Hungry For Music



Japanese equipment manufacturer Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology for over 50 years, is celebrating one million sales of its iconic AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone by donating one million yen to Hungry for Music, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding opportunities in music for children. Since 1994, Hungry for Music has provided thousands of musical instruments to children in 32 countries who might otherwise have been unable to participate in music lessons and programs.

The donation by A-T is a fitting one, as the AT2020 cardioid condenser was the first side-address microphone affordably priced to provide professional-quality sound for all – greatly expanding access to the technology of sound creation and ushering in a golden age for the home studio. And in the two decades since, creators of all stripes – musicians, streamers, podcasters, et. al. – have depended on, and been smitten by, the clean articulation and intelligibility of the microphone’s sound, its rugged design, and reliable performance as it brought so many artistic visions into life.

“For nearly 20 years, the AT2020 has been a springboard for creators everywhere,” notes Audio-Technica U.S. President and CEO Manabu Aoki. “With our donation to Hungry for Music, we hope to provide a similar boost to the creative expression of disadvantaged youth. By eliminating the economic barriers to learning an instrument, Hungry for Music makes it possible for more children to share in the joy of music-making, and we’re proud to support the organization in those efforts.”

In addition to the donation, A-T is celebrating the success of the AT2020 by giving away one exclusive 24-karat gold-plated version of the microphone in each of its global sales areas. Residents of the U.S. and Canada 18 years of age and older are invited to register for the giveaway on the company’s website.


Audio-Technica to Exhibit Streaming/Podcasting Mic Packs at PAX West 2019



Audio-Technica announced that it will be exhibiting a wide range of gaming headsets, streaming/podcasting microphone packages, wireless and wired headphones, and other gaming-friendly products. It’ll all be showcased at PAX West 2019 at the Washington State Convention Center, Seattle, WA, Booth 7002, August 30 – September 2, 2019.

Highlights of the Audio-Technica products on exhibit at PAX West 2019 include:

Taking design inspiration from the company’s industry-standard ATH-M50x pro audio headphones, Audio-Technica’s ATH-G1WL wireless and ATH-G1 gaming headsets deliver powerful, spacious audio quality in crystal-clear in-game voice communication. Both headsets’ lightweight design allow gamers to enjoy even long playing sessions in total comfort.

The wired ATH-G1 (SRP: US $169.00) is compatible with computers, PlayStation 4, Xbox One and any platform with a 3.5 mm headset connector. It features specially tuned large-diameter 45mm drivers to bring studio-quality sound to game audio. Its highly directional boom mic delivers exceptional voice clarity while rejecting ambient noise and keyboard clicks.

The Wireless ATG-G1WL (SRP: US $249.00) adds stable, lag-free wireless connectivity, a long 15 hours of battery life and a virtual sound function for an even more immersive 3D audio gaming experience. Its wireless USB transceiver ensures compatibility with computers.

The BPHS1 Broadcast Stereo Headset (US $199.00) was developed for professional use, yet its natural, focused audio reproduction, noise-isolating closed back design, high-output gooseneck-mounted dynamic microphone and rugged design make it idea for gaming as well.

Now, anyone can convert their favorite headphones into a full-fledged gaming headset, thanks to Audio-Technica’s ATGM2 detachable book microphone (US $79.00), which easily attaches to any headphones and adjusts for optimal positioning.

Gaming and streaming go hand in hand and Audio-Technica will showcase a selection of streaming/podcasting packages that include a microphone, adjustable boom arm, headphones, cables and accessories – everything needed for content creators in a complete easy to use setup. Models include the AT2035PK with USB mic (US $199.00), AT2020USB+PK withXLR mic ($149.00) and the AT2005USBPK with USB/XLR connectivity (US $129.00).

Audio-Technica’s wireless headphones combine high-quality Bluetooth audio with cord-free convenience and superior value. The QuietPoint ATH-ANC500BT (SRP: US $99.00) features 40mm drivers for clear, detailed audio reproduction and ANC (active noise cancellation) circuitry to attenuate outside noise. The ATH-ANC500BT’s controls and mic are built into the earcup for convenient handling of volume adjustments and phone calls. It offers up to 20 hours of use on a full charge and can also be used in wired mode.


Audio-Technica Offers New Bundles for Content Creators



Audio-Technica is offering four new bundles catered to content creators, including podcasters, videographers, live-streamers, YouTubers and beyond. Developed in response to customer input, these highly cost-effective bundles provide turnkey microphone/headphone solutions for all aspects of content creation.

Two bundles feature USB outputs to directly connect with computers, while two feature XLR outputs for more flexibility to connect with professional mixers or digital interfaces.

All bundles feature a microphone with mount, ATH-M20x Professional Monitor Headphones, and a new custom boom arm with desk mount. The boom arms are pre-threaded with the appropriate USB or XLR microphone cable compatible with the included microphone for a sleek, clutter-free appearance.

The AT2005USBPK bundle includes an AT2005USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone with ATH-M20x headphones and custom boom arm.

The AT2020PK bundle includes an AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone, ATH-M20x headphones, and custom boom arm.

The AT2020USB+PK bundle includes an AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone, ATH-M20x headphones and custom boom arm.

The AT2035PK bundle includes an AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone, ATH-M20x headphones, custom boom arm and shock mount.

These four content creation bundles will be available fall 2018 with U.S. street pricing as follows:

AT2005USBPK bundle: $129
AT2020PK bundle: $149
AT2020USB+PK bundle: $199
AT2035PK bundle: $199


AT5047 is a Premier Studio Microphone



Audio-Technica released the AT5047 cardioid condenser microphone. It is equally at home with vocals and instruments.

Boasting an exceptionally wide dynamic range – the greatest among all Audio-Technica microphones – the AT5047 captures the full, expressive character of a sound source, no matter how loud or how soft. And since it is equipped with a transformer-coupled output, the microphone maintains a constant load output impedance, even when capturing sources at extreme SPL, resulting in a stable relationship between the mic and a mic preamp or console input.

In keeping with the 50 Series’ commitment to purity of sound, the AT5047 includes the four-part rectangular element originally developed for the AT5040. Four exquisitely matched ultra-thin diaphragms function together (with outputs proprietarily summed) as Audio-Technica’s largest-ever element, providing combined surface area twice that of a standard one-inch circular diaphragm.

Features include:

  • Exceptionally wide dynamic range captures the full, expressive character of instruments and voices – from the cress of drum brushes to powerful vocal performances
  • Four rectangular diaphragms (2 micron) function together to provide a combined surface area twice that of a standard one-inch circular diaphragm
  • Discrete components carefully selected and optimized for maximum performance and compatibility with standalone microphone preamps and console inputs
  • Transformer-coupled output provides smooth sonic character
  • Hand assembled and inspected for 100% quality control
  • Advanced internal shock mounting decouples the capsule from the microphone body
  • Elegant, durable housing of aluminum and brass
  • Included advanced-design custom AT8480 shock mount provides superior isolations
  • Custom hard-shell carrying case with die-cut foam compartments offers protection during storage and transport

The AT5047 cardioid condenser microphone is priced at US $3,499.00.


Audio-Technica and Audient Partner for Perfect Production Package



Audio-Technica has collaborated with Audient to deliver the AT2035-Studio “Essential Studio Kit”, a microphone/interface/headphone bundle ideal for budding producers and musicians in home studios or on the move.

Comprising Audio-Technica’s perennially popular AT2035 large diaphragm cardioid condenser mic and ATH-M40x studio monitor headphones, the Essential Studio Kit is completed by Audient’s outstanding iD4 Black USB audio interface.

The interface is the ideal partner for Audio-Technica’s versatile, natural-sounding AT2035, a cornerstone of the company’s studio-oriented 20 Series. It’s high SPL handling, 80Hz high-pass filter and 10dB pad make it well suited to a wide variety of instrument and vocal applications, while the supplied custom shock-mount provides superior isolation from knocks – critical in the studio and on location.

The ATH-M40x headphones deliver excellent performance in both tracking and mixing situations and share the same sonic signature as Audio-Technica’s legendary M50x and M70x flagship headphones.

Featuring a renowned Audient mic preamp, the 2-in/2-out iD4 Black boasts class-leading converter technology, JFET DI and the company’s ScrollControl virtual scroll wheel technology.

The Essential Studio Kit delivers a significant saving on the RRP of the individual components when bought separately – and also includes no less than £500 of Audient curated free plug-ins, production tools and training (available on registration of the iD4 Black on Audient’s ARC webpage), comprising Eventide’s Ultrachannel and Ultraverb plug-ins, Cubase LE and Cubasis LE2 (for iOS), ten free LANDR masters and two free courses and £20 voucher for online audio educators Producertech.

The AT2035-Studio is available in the UK, Germany, France, and Spain and has a recommended retail price of €389 / £335 inc VAT.