40 series
studio microphones
AT4050
Multi-pattern Condenser Side-Address Microphone
Features
• Specially engineered to meet the most critical acoustic
requirements of professional recording, broadcast and sound
reinforcement
• Three switchable polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid,
figure-of-eight
• 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
• 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
achieved remain constant over years of use
• Open acoustical environment of the symmetrical housing
assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections
• Custom shock mount provides superior isolation
• 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 stringent consistency and reliability
standards
Description
The AT4050 is a large-diaphragm side-address externally polarized
(DC bias) condenser microphone with three switchable polar patterns:
omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight. It is designed to meet the
most critical acoustic requirements of professional recording, broadcast
and sound reinforcement.
The microphone requires 48V phantom power for operation.
The omnidirectional polar pattern is sensitive to sound coming from
all directions. Select the omni pattern to pick up several voices or
instruments on the same microphone, to diminish proximity effect, and
to preserve the location’s ambient sound.
The cardioid polar pattern is more sensitive to sound originating directly
in front of the element, making it useful in controlling feedback, reducing
pickup of unwanted sounds and providing isolation between performers.
The figure-of-eight polar pattern is more sensitive to sound originating in
the front and back of the microphone, rejecting sounds from the sides.
It is often used in conjunction with advanced stereo miking techniques.
The output of the microphone is a 3-pin XLRM-type connector.
The microphone is equipped with a switchable 10 dB pad and a switch
that permits choice of flat response or low-frequency roll-off (via integral
80 Hz high-pass filter).
The microphone is enclosed in a rugged housing. The included AT8449
shock mount provides superior isolation and permits mounting on any
microphone stand with
5
/
8
"-27 threads. A dust cover and a protective
carrying case are also included.
Operation and Maintenance
The AT4050 requires 48V phantom power for operation.
Output is low impedance (Lo-Z) balanced. The signal appears across Pins
2 and 3; Pin 1 is ground (shield). Output phase is “Pin 2 hot”— positive
acoustic pressure produces positive voltage at Pin 2.
To avoid phase cancellation and poor sound, all mic cables must be wired
consistently: Pin 1-to-Pin 1, etc.
A raised Audio-Technica emblem and the pattern-selection switch are on
the front of the microphone. Position this side of the microphone toward
the sound source.
The pattern-selection switch provides user-selection of omnidirectional,
cardioid, and figure-of-eight polar patterns. To select the omnidirectional
polar pattern, slide the switch to the circular polar pattern image. To
select the cardioid polar pattern, slide the switch to the heart-shaped
polar pattern image. To select the figure-of-eight pattern, slide the switch
to the figure-eight shaped polar pattern image.
An integral 80 Hz high-pass filter provides easy switching from a flat
frequency response to a low-end roll-off. The roll-off position reduces the
microphone’s sensitivity to popping in close vocal use. It also reduces
the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling
systems, etc.), room reverberation and mechanically coupled vibrations.
To engage the high-pass filter, slide the switch toward the “bent” line.
The microphone is also equipped with a switchable 10 dB pad that lowers
the microphone's sensitivity, thus providing higher SPL capability for
flexible use with a wide range of users and system configurations. To
engage the 10 dB pad, slide the switch toward the -10 position.
In use, secure the cable to the mic stand or boom, leaving a slack loop at
the mic. This will ensure the most effective shock isolation and reduce
the possibility of accidentally pulling the microphone out of its mount.
Avoid leaving the microphone in the open sun or in areas where
temperatures exceed 110° F (43° C) for extended periods. Extremely high
humidity should also be avoided.
Architect’s and Engineer’s Specifications
The microphone shall be a large-diaphragm side-address externally
polarized (DC bias) condenser with user-switchable omnidirectional,
cardioid, and figure-of-eight polar patterns and a frequency response of
20 Hz to 18,000 Hz. The microphone shall operate from an external 48V
DC phantom power source. It shall be capable of handling sound input
levels up to 149 dB (159 dB with 10 dB pad) with a dynamic range of 132
dB. Nominal open-circuit output voltage shall be 15.8 mV at 1V, 1 Pascal.
Output shall be low impedance balanced (100 ohms).
