AES NY 2017: Audio-Technica Showcases Wireless Tech

Audio-Technica (Booth 422), a leading innovator in transducer technology for more than 50 years, is exhibiting a wide variety of microphones, headphones, and wireless systems at the 143rd AES Convention at New York City’s Javits Center. Here’s a look at several that are on display, and a trade-in rebate that helps wireless users prepare for loss of 600 MHz spectrum.

AT5047 microphone
The new AT5047 cardioid condenser microphone is now shipping. The most recent addition to A-T’s 50 Series (which also includes the AT5040 vocal microphone and AT5045 instrument mic), the premier studio microphone features the same capsule as the AT5040 but with a transformer-coupled output and optimized electronics. It is equally at home capturing instruments and vocals.

Audio-Technica AT5047 cardioid condenser microphone

Boasting an exceptionally wide dynamic range — the widest among all A-T mics — the AT5047 captures the full, expressive character of a sound source, no matter how loud or how soft. And since it is equipped with a transformer-coupled output, the microphone maintains a constant-load output impedance, even when capturing sources at extreme SPL, resulting in a stable relationship between the mic and a mic preamp or console input.

Four rectangular two-micron-thick diaphragms function together to provide a combined surface area twice that of a standard 1-in, circular diaphragm. Discrete components have been carefully selected and optimized for maximum performance and compatibility with a wide array of microphone preamps and console inputs. Advanced internal shock mounting decouples the capsule from the microphone body, and the included advanced-design AT8480 shock mount provides superior isolation.

With an elegant, durable housing of aluminum and brass, each AT5047 has been hand-assembled and inspected for 100% quality control. A custom hard-shell carrying case with die-cut foam compartments offers protection during storage and transport.

The AT5047 offers a frequency response of 20 to 20,000 Hz; a typical dynamic range of 142 dB, 1 kHz at max SPL; and a signal-to-noise ratio of 88 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa. It is available priced at $3,499.

ATH-M50xRD Red-and-Gold Monitor Headphones
Audio-Technica is unveiling the ATH-M50xRD professional monitor headphones, a limited-edition red-and-gold version of its popular ATH-M50x and part of its M-Series line of headphones.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50xRD Professional Monitor Headphones

From the 45-mm large-aperture drivers to its sound-isolating earcups and robust construction, the ATH-M50xRD headphones are intended for the most critical audio applications, including recording, live sound, broadcast, DJ, and personal listening. They incorporate technology drawn from Audio-Technica’s long history in high-performance professional audio, providing exceptional power handling, very high-SPL capability, and natural, accurate sound with impactful bass and high-frequency extension. With professional-grade earpad and headband material and a collapsible design, the headphones remain comfortable throughout long monitoring sessions and are easily transported.

The proprietary large-aperture drivers feature rare*earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils. Exceptional clarity is provided throughout an extended frequency range, with deep, accurate bass response. The circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments.

Available this month, the limited-edition ATH-M50xRD is priced at $169.

High-Density, Spectrum-Efficient 6000 Series Wireless System
Audio-Technica’s 6000 Series high-density wireless system allows users to pack 31 channels in 4 MHz of bandwidth. The 2016 FCC Incentive Auction has resulted in a repack of the broadcast spectrum, reducing the amount of spectrum available for wireless-microphone operations and driving the need for spectrum-efficient technology to operate a high number of simultaneous channels in today’s market. To address this issue, Audio-Technica developed the 6000 Series, whose channels are spaced at 125-KHz intervals and can all be used simultaneously. The system operates in the 944-952 MHz band, which is free of broadcast TV. The FCC has expanded license eligibility for this band beyond broadcasters and content creators to include sound companies and venues that routinely operate 50 or more wireless microphones.

The main components of the Audio-Technica 6000 Series Wireless System: the ATW-R6200 receiver (bottom) and two ATW-T6001 bodypack transmitters

The 6000 Series system comprises the following components: the ATW-R6200 receiver, the ATW-T6001 bodypack transmitter, an optional ATW-DA410 antenna distribution system, and a number of compatible Audio-Technica lavalier and head-worn microphones. Key features include high-performance filtering to remove external noise; clear, easy-to-read displays; transmitter-frequency setup from receiver via IR sync; network monitor and control; durable, compact bodypack transmitter design; and a highly reliable new miniature input connector.

The Audio-Technica 6000 Series wireless system is now available with the following components and pricing:

  • ATW-R6200 receiver: $2,999
  • ATW-T6001 bodypack transmitter: $1,299
  • ATW-DA410 antenna distribution system: $4,349
  • ATW-F948 pair of antenna filters: $189
  • AT898cH subminiature cardioid condenser lavalier microphone: $179
  • AT899cH subminiature omnidirectional condenser lavalier microphone: $179
  • BP892cH MicroSet subminiature omnidirectional condenser head-worn microphone: $309
  • BP893cH MicroEarset omnidirectional condenser head-worn microphone: $259
  • BP894cH MicroSet subminiature cardioid condenser head-worn microphone: $359

Trade-In Rebate for 600 MHz Wireless Systems
Preparing for the upcoming shift away from wireless systems operating in the 600 MHz band (614 to 698 MHz), A-T has announced a wide-ranging trade-in rebate program that will greatly assist wireless users in switching to a new system that accommodates the new guidelines, on their terms, through March 31, 2019.

“Plan Now. Trade In When Necessary”: The transition period will create an uncertain operating environment for users of 600 MHz wireless systems, who will be affected differently depending on their geographic location. Some may need to switch to new systems right away or fairly soon; others will be able to operate longer. A few may even be able to hold out until the FCC-mandated deadline of July 13, 2020.

Audio-Technica’s longer trade-in rebate program allows additional flexibility and options for this important switchover. Given the complexity of the reallocation and the number of parties involved, there is no way to accurately predict just how — or when — individual users will be affected by these changes. But there’s no need to panic. Unless your system is part of a mission-critical application, Audio-Technica recommends following a use-it-‘til-you-lose-it path: begin budgeting for a new system, get as much use as you can out of your current 600 MHz system (up to the FCC deadline), then make the switch once you encounter problems. This also may allow you to take advantage of any new wireless systems brought to market before you make your switch to a new wireless system.

For each 600 MHz wireless system traded in (regardless of manufacturer), the user will receive a rebate on an eligible Audio-Technica wireless system. To allow flexibility in budgeting and switching to a new system, this trade-in program extends from Aug. 15, 2017, through March 31, 2019 (significantly longer than current rebates from other manufacturers).

How to trade in your 600 MHz system:

  1. Verify that your trade-in system operates in the 600 MHz band. Your receiver and/or transmitter should include a sticker with the frequency range. If any part of the listed frequency range falls within the 614-698 MHz range, your system will eventually be prohibited from operating and is eligible for trade-in.
  2. Purchase an eligible Audio-Technica wireless system from an authorized Audio-Technica dealer in the U.S. and its territories by Aug. 31/2019 and receive the following rebate:
  • 2000 Series (single channel): $50
  • 3000 Series (single channel): $75
  • 4000 Series (single channel): $150
  • 5000 Series (dual channel): $450
  • System 10 Stack-Mount (single channel): $50
  • System 10 Stompbox (single channel): $50
  • System 10 Camera-Mount (single channel): $75
  • System 10 PRO Rack-Mount (single channel): $75
  • System 10 PRO Rack-Mount (dual channel): $150
  • M2 (single channel): $90
  • M3 (single channel): $120
  1. Register online at http://audio-technica.rebateaccess.com. Offer Promotion #78844
  2. Once registered, you will need to follow the instructions provided and mail the following documents and equipment:
  • Printed trade-in rebate form.
  • A copy of the sales receipt for your new A-T system with store name, date of purchase, model number, and price paid clearly legible.
  • The original (not a copy) UPC barcode cut from the product box (not from the shipping carton) of each new A-T system purchased.
  • Your old 600 MHz wireless system (receiver and transmitter). Note: To receive the full trade-in rebate on a dual-channel system, you must send in two channels (two single-channel receivers or one dual-channel receiver, plus two transmitters) from a 600 MHz system.

NOTE: All items above must be included with appropriate postage postmarked by April 30, 2019, for trade-in to be honored.

For complete terms and conditions, please visit www.audio-technica.com/600mhztradein. If you have any questions about this 600 MHz trade-in program, please contact A-T’s Audio Solutions Department at 800-516-7262 or [email protected]. If you have any questions about the 600 MHz transition, please visit A-T’s 600 MHz Wireless FAQ’s page.

 

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