Audio Technica AT3525 Manuals

Description The AT3525 is a wide-range fixed-charge condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. Featuring excellent performance specifications, this versatile microphone is designed to meet the needs of professional musicians in a wide range of applications, from project studio recording to high-quality sound reinforcement. It is also suitable for use in broadcasting and other situations which demand exceptional audio reproduc- tion coupled with enduring reliability. Audio-Technica design engineers have utilized the newest low-mass technology in the quest for superior performance. The back plate of the AT3525 element holds a fixed charge and has been aged to provide energy stabilization. The surface of the back plate has been precision-milled to ensure maximum charge linearity. The result is a reduction in both frequency response peaks and diaphragm break-up distortion. The Audio-Technica fixed-charge condenser element design allows significant diaphragm weight reduction. The low-mass diaphragm improves transient response, increases response bandwidth and reduces handling and mechanical noise transfer. The symmetrical housing assembly surround- ing the microphone capsule and its open acoustical environment allow the off-axis response to be ideally suited for studio work where natural reproduction of off-axis sound is of paramount importance. The AT3525 is intended for use in professional applications where remote power is available. It requires 48V phantom power, which may be provided by a mixer or console, or by a sepa- rate, in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-channel and CP8506 four- channel phantom power supplies. The cardioid (unidirectional) polar pattern of the AT3525 is more sensitive to sound origi- nating directly in front of the element than to sounds coming from the sides or rear. Unidirectional microphones are useful in controlling feedback, reducing pickup of unwanted sounds and providing isolation between performers during recording. They can also be used to allow greater microphone- to-performer distance with equal noise, compared to an omnidirectional microphone. The AT3525 handles very high sound pres- sure levels with ease, accepting as high as 146 dB SPL before producing 1% T.H.D. A switchable 10 dB (nominal) pad is built-in, increasing its capabilities to 156 dB SPL. An integral 80 Hz hi-pass filter provides easy switching from a flat frequency response to a low-end roll-off. The hi-pass position reduces the microphone’s sensitivity to popping in close vocal use. It also reduces the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.), room reverbera- tion and mechanically-coupled vibrations. The AT3525 is enclosed in a rugged housing with a low-reflectance finish. Output is via a 3- pin professional connector. The included multi- position shock mount permits mounting on any microphone stand or boom with 5/8"-27 threads. The mounting arm may be removed from the shock-mount ring and reattached for a “hang- ing” orientation, as shown in the photo. Operation and Maintenance Output is low impedance balanced. The output connector mates with XLRF-type cable connectors. The balanced signal appears across Pins 2 and 3 while the ground (shield) connection is Pin 1. Output is phased so that positive acoustic pressure produces positive voltage at Pin 2 in accordance with industry convention. For balanced low-impedance inputs, AT8314 cable (or equal) is recommended. An accom- panying drawing shows the wiring used at the equipment end of this cable. Note that other manufacturers may employ other color codes for cable conductors. Regardless of color code, it is important that both ends of each cable are wired consistently, with the shield always connected to Pin 1, Pin 2 connected to Pin 2, and Pin 3 to Pin 3. This will ensure that all microphones are electri- cally in phase and reduce problems of uneven response and sound cancellation when two microphones are used close to each other. 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 unit out of its mount. While a modern condenser microphone is not unduly sensitive to the environment, temper- ature extremes can be harmful. Exposure to high temperatures can result in gradual and permanent reduction of the output level. Avoid leaving the microphone in the open sun or in areas where temperatures exceed 110˚ F (43˚ C) for long periods of time. Extremely high humidity should also be avoided. AT3525 CARDIOID CONDENSER MICROPHONE Frequency Response 12" or more on axis 200 LEGEND 50 100 Frequency in Hertz 500 1k 2k 5k Response in dB 20k 10k 10 dB LEGEND Roll-off