Award-winning producers, engineers and musicians everywhere have come to rely on Audio-Technica’s 40 Series studio microphones for their superior, dependable performance. They turn to these mics again and again for a sonic consistency that’s hard to find elsewhere. Each of these microphones is individually tested and inspected for 100 percent quality assurance. If it doesn’t pass, we don’t sell it, simple as that. We’d like to talk about a couple of our 40 Series mics in detail to give you an inside look.

The A-T 40 Series Microphones

1. AT4050 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone This studio condenser captures all the little nuanced frequencies that fill out your sound. This is the difference that matters in your mix, whether it’s for vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitars, or whatever you might be recording. The precision-machined nickel-plated brass acoustic element baffle is the perfect balance between stability and sensitivity. Customer Reviews: “I had one of these on loan to me for a couple of months and when it was time to return it, I immediately ordered a new one for the studio. Clean, transparent, no nonsense. I've used it on everything from vocals to guitar amps. One of the most versatile mics in my cabinet.” –Phillipe, MA “I've owned a pair of 4050s for many years and they continue to be used on every session, both along side many more expensive microphones and many times instead of those other mics.” –Bleen, Seattle “I have other mics, some much more expensive. In the studio, I always feel obliged to try my other mics, but most often I wind up using a trusty AT4050. I've yet to find a situation where it doesn't perform at least as well as anything else in my locker, particularly for vocals, both male and female.” –Orsinio, San Francisco   2. AT4047MP Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone An excellent example of vintage sound, the AT4047MP has selectable omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight polar patterns. Its output and specially tuned element provide a sound reminiscent of early F.E.T. studio microphone designs. Use this versatile condenser mic on vocals, strings, acoustic guitars, ensembles, and small vocal groups for a classic sound. Customer Reviews: “What continually amazes me about this mic is it's ability to handle dynamics - all the while producing the silkiest high end. From very soft (with low mic noise) to very loud (with no distortion), this mic sounds wonderful!” –Drummaman, OH “The AT4047MP is a ‘desert island’ mic for sure. It does so many things so well. A truly versatile mic.” –Tuelles, DE   3. AT4033/CL Cardioid Condenser Microphone It’s the classic edition of the game-changing AT4033. A side-address mic, the AT4033/CL has low-noise, transformerless circuitry with clean output signals. It’s a studio classic, a darling of bluegrass recording, and the first microphone to break the $1000 barrier in its class.. This mic has a strong, up-front presence that is the essence of the 40 Series. Customer Reviews: “I've done a lot of recording with this mic, in my home studio, and it has always come through for me. I recommend it highly.” –Restless, TX “For primary vocals, it has a bit of a bump in the 4-5k range, so you get some ‘up front’ presence. Good for lead vocals.” –DJ Tempo, TX   4. AT4081 Phantom-Powered Bidirectional Ribbon Microphone This handcrafted ribbon microphone is robust and durable. It will be with you in the studio for many years to come. Its high output makes it compatible with most preamps, and its sleek, low-profile stick design makes it a natural fit for all kinds of instruments, including horns, strings, drum overheads, orchestras, and guitar amps in the studio and onstage. It’s A-T designed MicroLinear™ ribbon imprint protects the dual ribbons from damage. This is the next step in the evolution of ribbon microphones. Customers Reviews: “Probably the best sounding mic I own right now.” –Andy H. “Great ribbon sound…enough said.” –Mel, NY There are many other 40 Series microphones to choose from and each of them brings something unique to your studio. These hand-tested, handcrafted microphones are versatile and reliable. With so many 40 Series mics at your disposal, what sound are you looking for today? What is the 40 Series doing in YOUR studio? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below or on Facebook and Twitter.