Audio Technica AT4080 Quick Start Manual

AT4080
Bidirectional Active Ribbon Microphone

Features

• Smooth, warm and natural sound with precise, articulate detail to
meet the critical requirements of today's recording, broadcast and
sound reinforcement professionals
• Groundbreaking Audio-Technica ribbon design with 18 patents
pending
• Proprietary MicroLinear ™
and freedom from lateral flexing and distortion
• Innovative dual ribbon construction for increased sensitivity
• Extremely powerful N50 rare-earth neodymium magnets for high
output level
• Ultra-fine mesh helps protect against ribbon damage from wind
and plosives
• Classic bidirectional (figure-of-eight) polar pattern picks up
sounds equally from the front and back of the element
• High-SPL capability for exceptionally versatile performance
• Extended frequency response for natural audio reproduction
• Acoustic baffle system and extra large output transformer provide
natural low-frequency response and extended dynamic range
• Handmade production – including ribbon corrugation, imprint
and assembly
• Open acoustical environment of the housing assembly minimizes
unwanted internal reflections
• Phantom-powered active electronics provide stable impedance
and higher output for maximum compatibility with microphone
preamplifiers
• Custom shock mount provides superior isolation

Description

The AT4080 is a side-address active ribbon microphone with a
bidirectional polar pattern. Delivering the warmth and natural sound
of a classic ribbon microphone, the AT4080 offers a robust build for
long-lasting performance and high gain for easy use with microphone
preamplifiers.
With 18 patents pending, Audio-Technica's innovative ribbon transducer
advances the evolution of ribbon microphone technology, combining
remarkable durability and high-SPL capability with smooth, rich audio
quality. The microphone is recommended for vocals, horns, strings,
acoustic instruments, drum overheads, orchestras, ensembles and guitar
cabinets. It excels in recording studios as well as in live-sound settings.
A significant breakthrough in ribbon cartridge design, Audio-Technica's
patent-pending MicroLinear ™
for durable performance and accurate reproduction of the sound source.
While the application of phantom power was prohibited for old-
ribbon imprint for superior durability
ribbon imprint minimizes ribbon distortion
school ribbon microphones, Audio-Technica's AT4080 requires 48V
phantom power for operation. The phantom power is used—not for the
microphone's dynamic ribbon transducer—but for its active electronics,
which bring its output to near condenser microphone level. This high-
output and stable impedance make the microphone easy to integrate
with microphone preamplifiers.
The bidirectional polar pattern of the microphone makes it equally
sensitive to sounds originating in front and back of the element.
The output of the microphone is a 3-pin XLRM-type connector.
The microphone is enclosed in a rugged housing. The included AT8449/SV
shock mount provides superior isolation and permits mounting on any
microphone stand with / "-27 threads. A dust cover and a protective
5
8
carrying case are also included.
Operation & Maintenance
The AT4080 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 is on the front of the microphone.
Position this side of the microphone toward the sound source.
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.
Note: While Audio-Technica ribbon microphones are designed for superior
durability, we recommend the following precautions when dealing with
ribbon microphones: do not blow directly into the ribbon assembly; use a
popper-stopper style windscreen for up-close vocal use.
Take care to keep foreign particles from entering the windscreen.
An accumulation of foreign material in the ribbon structure and/or the
windscreen's mesh surface, can degrade performance. 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 side-address active ribbon microphone. It
shall have a bidirectional polar pattern 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 150 dB with a dynamic range of 128 dB. Nominal open-circuit
output voltage shall be 11.2 mV at 1V, 1 Pascal. Output shall be low
impedance balanced (100 ohms).
The output of the microphone shall be a 3-pin XLRM-type connector.
The microphone shall be 177.5 mm (6.99") long and have a maximum
body diameter of 53.4 mm (2.10"). Weight shall be 474 g (16.7 oz). The
microphone shall include a shock mount, a dust cover and a protective
carrying case.
The Audio-Technica AT4080 is specified.
40 series microphones