PA Equipment News & Information
Audio-Technica's first ever ribbon microphones
Fri, 9 Apr 2010
Audio-Technica's first ever ribbon microphones, the AT4080 and AT4081. With 18 patents pending these handcrafted ribon transducers advance the evolution of ribbon microphone design, offering remarkable durability and phantom-powered active electronics
• Smooth, warm and natural high-fidelity sound
• Groundbreaking ribbon design with 18 patents pending
• Dual ribbon construction for increased sensitivity
• Powerful N50 neodymium magnets for high output level
• High SPL capability and extended frequency response
AT4080: Side addressed bidirectional active ribbon. Fig-of-eight pattern (Inc AT8449SV shock mount) $1,399 rrp.
AT4081: Pencil type bidirectional active ribbon. Fig-of-eight pattern (Inc AT8471 isolation clamp) $999 rrp.
Audio Technica AT4080 Bidirectional Active Ribbon Microphone Details
The Audio-Technica AT4080 Microphone achieves coveted ribbon microphone sound while solving the fragility and low output problems that have historically plagued ribbon mics. Delivering the warm, smooth sound of a classic ribbon microphone, the handcrafted bidirectional AT4080 offers a robust build for long-lasting, reliable performance, as well as higher output for maximum compatibility with microphone preamplifiers.

At home, recording studios or live-sound settings, the AT4080 microphone boasts Audio-Technica's innovative MicroLinear ribbon imprint, which protects the dual ribbons from lateral flexing and distortion.
The innovative AT ribbon transducer advances the evolution of ribbon microphone design. Other enhancements include powerful N50 neodymium magnets for high output level, ultra-fine mesh to protect the ribbon against damage, high-SPL capability, and extended frequency response. The bidirectional AT4080 ribbon mic's housing assembly is open acoustically to minimize unwanted internal audio reflections.
• Audio Technica AT4080 Bidirectional Active Ribbon Microphone Features
• Smooth, warm and natural high-fidelity sound for professional recording, broadcast, and sound reinforcement
• Groundbreaking Audio-Technica ribbon design with 18 patents pending
• Proprietary MicroLinear ribbon imprint for superior durability
• Innovative dual ribbon construction for increased sensitivity
• Extremely powerful N50 neodymium magnets for high output level
• Ultra-fine mesh helps protect against ribbon damage
• Classic bidirectional (figure-of-eight) polar pattern picks up sounds equally from the front and back of the element
• High-SPL capability and extended frequency response
• 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
• Certified by the METAlliance (Music Engineering and Technology Alliance)
• Accessories Furnished: AT8449/SV shock mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands, microphone dust cover, protective
R1-style carrying case
