Audio-Technica AT4050ST Stereo Condenser Microphone

Capture a realistic sound field when you record in middle-side stereo with the Audio-Technica AT4050ST, or select a left/right stereo output.

Offering the realism of a live sound field, the AT4050ST is a side-address condenser with cardioid and figure-of-eight elements configured in a Mid-Side arrangement. This innovative stereo condenser allows sound recordists the choice of selecting a left-right stereo output or choosing discrete Mid-Side signals for later manipulation, a remarkable flexibility. The microphone's dual-diaphragm capsules maintain precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range. Its transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion.

Features:

- Innovative side-address Mid-Side stereo microphone engineered for professional recording, broadcast and sound reinforcement
- Independent cardioid and figure-of-eight condenser elements
- Switch selection of Mid-Side mode and two internally matrixed stereo modes
- Dual-diaphragm capsules maintain precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range of the microphone
- Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients
- The 2-micron-thick, vapor-deposited gold diaphragms undergo a five-step aging process so that the optimum characteristics remain constant over years of use
- Open acoustical environment of the symmetrical housing assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections
- Integral 80 Hz high-pass filter switch and 10 dB pad switch
- State-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques ensure compliance with A-T's read more stringent consistency and reliability standards
- Custom shock mount provides superior isolation
- Certified by the METAlliance (Music Engineering and Technology Alliance)

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Specifications
- ELEMENT: Externally-polarized (DC bias) condenser
- POLAR PATTERN: Cardioid and Figure-of-eight
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 20-18,000 Hz
- LOW FREQUENCY ROLL-OFF: 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave
- OPEN CIRCUIT SENSITIVITY: Stereo 90*: -42 dB (7.9 mV) dB re 1V at 1 Pa
- Stereo 127*: -41 dB (8.9 mV) dB re 1V at 1 Pa
- Mid: -36 dB (15.8 mV) dB re 1V at 1 Pa
- Side: -36 dB (15.8 mV) dB re 1V at 1 Pa
- IMPEDANCE: 50 ohms
- MAXIMUM INPUT SOUND LEVEL: Mid and Side: 149 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.;
159 dB SPL, with 10 dB pad (nominal)
- NOISE: Stereo 90*: 25 dB SPL
- Stereo 127*: 16 dB SPL
- Mid: 15 dB SPL
- Side: 17 dB SPL
- DYNAMIC RANGE (typical): Mid: 134 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
- Side: 132 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
- SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO: Stereo 90*: 69 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
- Stereo 127*: 78 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
- Mid: 79 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
- Side: 77 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
- PHANTOM POWER REQUIREMENTS: 48V DC, 6.4 mA typical (both channels total)

SWITCHES: 90*, 127*, M-S;
Flat, roll-off;
10 dB pad (nominal)

- WEIGHT: 517 g (18.2 oz)
- DIMENSIONS: 193.0 mm (7.60") long,
53.4 mm (2.10") maximum body diameter
- OUTPUT CONNECTOR: Integral 5-pin XLRM-type
- CABLE: 5.0 m (16.5') long, 8-conductor, shielded, vinyl-jacketed stereo cable with 5-pin XLRF-type connector at microphone end and two 3-pin XLRM-type connectors at output end
- ACCESSORIES FURNISHED: AT8449 shock mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; microphone dust cover; protective carrying case
- AUDIO-TECHNICA CASE STYLE: R1
Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Base Item
Shipping Weight: 4.23 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 4 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): AT4050ST
Blemished, USED
Shipping Weight: 4.23 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 4 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): AT4050ST

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 330-686-2600 x5000
Email: audio-solutions@atus.com

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (1 ratings)
Submitted February 24, 2011 by a customer from windstream.net

"An excellent microphone with features unavailable in this price range until now."

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
I own quite a few microphones, each desirable for certain purposes. There is nothing like this microphone, which means that I will probably keep it as long as I need professional recording gear.

Sound
I just bought this microphone a few days ago, and I have tested it playing solo violin, concert band, and vocal (spoken and sung). The microphone compares favorably with several very expensive (and well-known) mono microphones I have used in professional recording studios. This microphone records a sound very similar to live performance. I recorded throughout the four-octave range of my violin with great satisfaction. I also used it as a live microphone amplifying my violin and was very pleased with the result. I combined it with two AKG 1000 microphones for a concert band performance in a large auditorium. The final result is very natural, with excellent dynamic response throughout the pitch and tonal range of tubas, timpani, cymbals, xylophone, woodwinds, and brass. The tone is very clear, with undetectable distortion in every type of music ranging from very loud to almost inaudible. I am anxious to continue using this microphone, exploring its seemingly unlimited possibilities.

Features
This microphone includes a hard case, shock-mount, dust cover, and cable, all that is needed. Everything is attractive and utilitarian. I am somewhat dubious about the shock-mount, which seems barely up to the task of holding the read more microphone vertically but not in any other position. The microphone is rather heavy, making me uncomfortable when I need to place it on a boom and elevate it to a high position.

Ease of Use
This microphone is very easy for an experienced person to use. The switches on it are self-explanatory and sturdy. They are also recessed, which makes it unlikely to accidentally change settings in normal handling conditions. It is also a forgiving microphone, allowing considerable latitude in placement without severely damaging the recorded performance.

Quality
Having used this microphone for only a few days, my impression is that it is very well made, reliable, sturdy, and long-lasting. (I have already mentioned my doubts about the shock-mount.)

Value
I carefully researched all available microphones in my price range, and I believe this to be the best value.

Manufacturer Support
I have not had occasion to deal with company with any problems, so I am assuming that a "10" rating is appropriate.

The Wow Factor
It has a professional appearance which does not attract attention. I lusted for it after trying it out.

Musical Background:
Violinist, Orchestra Director, Teacher, Recording Studio Owner

Musical Style:
Many, but classical is my favorite.
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12 of 13 people (92%) people found this review helpful. Did you?
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