Audio-Technica gave the European launch of the Artist Elite Series of microphones at last month’s Pro Light & Sound exhibition in Frankfurt. The result of extensive research and field evaluation, the new Artist Elite Series consists of four handheld microphones (two condenser, two dynamic) bring premium sound quality to touring/live performance, club sound, broadcast, corporate facilities and worship venues, say the company.

The flagship in the Artist Elite Series is the AE5400 cardioid condenser microphone, which features a true condenser, large-diaphragm element design. The AE5400 has 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. It also features a switchable 80Hz high-pass filter and a 10dB pad. The AE5400 provides natural vocals, with off-axis response which is linear and uniform across the entire frequency range of the microphone.

The AE3300 cardioid condenser microphone has been designed for use in venues ranging from the largest arenas to the most intimate club settings. Featuring a well-tempered cardioid polar pattern with high-quality rejection qualities, the AE3300 provides clear and uncoloured reproduction. Like the AE5400, the AE3300 has a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad.

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.

All models in the Artist Elite range have improved anti-shock engineering for low handling noise and include the new AT8470 Quiet-Flex stand clamp. Audio-Technica say the range will be available from Spring 2002.

(Lee Baldock)


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