Audio-Technica Debuts Next Generation Live Performances Mics
 January 17, 2002
Audio-Technica U.S., Inc. has chosen the Winter NAMM Show to introduce their new Artist Elite Series of microphones. As part of their ongoing commitment to developing
state-of-the-art live performance microphones, Audio-Technica drew on their vast experience in the touring market, as well as conducted extensive research and field evaluation with artists, FOH/monitor engineers, leading touring companies and prominent audio consultants. The result is the new Artist Elite Series -- a series of four handheld microphones (two condenser, two dynamic) that bring premium sound quality to touring/live performance, club sound, broadcast, corporate facilities and worship venues.
The flagship in the Artist Elite Series is the AE5400 Cardioid Condenser Microphone, which features a true condenser, large-diaphragm element design that delivers pristine sound for the most discriminating vocalist. The AE5400 utilizes an aged, vapor-deposited gold diaphragm for a flat frequency response with improved dynamic range and has the ability to handle high SPL's without sacrificing high-frequency performance. Featuring a robust design to combat the rigors of the road, the AE5400 also has a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and a 10 dB pad. The AE5400 exhibits the ability to provide excellent natural vocals, with off-axis response that is linear and uniform across the entire frequency range of the microphone. To ensure optimum performance, the AE5400 features new anti-shock engineering for superior isolation from noise and vibration, a new multi-level windscreen design, and includes Audio-Technica's new AT8470 Quiet-Flex stand clamp.
The AE3300 Cardioid Condenser Microphone offers exceptional performance for venues ranging from the largest arenas to the most intimate club settings. Featuring a well-tempered cardioid polar pattern with outstanding rejection qualities, the AE3300 provides exacting detail, brilliant clarity and uncolored realism. Like the AE5400, the AE3300 has a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad, superior anti-shock engineering, multi-level windscreen and includes the new AT8470 stand clamp.
The Artist Elite Series also includes two handheld dynamic microphones. The AE6100 Hypercardioid Dynamic Microphone delivers clean articulation for great on-stage presence and excellent monitor cut. It features a polar pattern tailored for superior on-axis response and maximum feedback rejection. The AE4100 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone provides focused vocal pickup while offering superior gain-before-feedback. Audio-Technica engineers have tailored the performance of the AE4100 for a more aggressive sound quality that keeps the vocals up-front in the mix. Both dynamic models have superior anti-shock engineering for low handling noise and include the new AT8470 Quiet-Flex stand clamp.
"For the past 5 years, Audio-Technica has developed close working relationships with the
well-known national & regional touring companies, award show designers, FOH/monitor engineers, audio consultants and artists from all genres of music," stated Michael Edwards, product manager, wired microphones. "Working with these top professionals, we learned what they needed and what it takes to make high-quality, reliable and consistent products for the live sound market that will perform flawlessly night after night. The Artist Elite Series is a culmination of this effort."
The four handheld Artist Elite microphones will be available in Spring 2002 at the following manufacturer's suggested retail prices:
- AE5400 Cardioid Condenser Microphone -- $579.00
- AE3300 Cardioid Condenser Microphone -- $439.00
- AE6100 Hypercardioid Dynamic Microphone -- $289.00
- AE4100 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone -- $289.00
For more information, visit their web site at www.audio-technica.com. |
