Launched at Winter NAMM, the AT2010 handheld shares the large, 16 mm low mass diaphragm of the AT2020 side firing studio model. This continues Audio-Technica's tradition of developing winning live vocal microphones from its large diaphragm studio models, bringing the same studio signal quality to live performance.
The company says that the AT2010 handheld offers all of the sonic performance advantages of a high quality large studio condenser, but at a price point competitive with leading dynamic vocal microphones, and is ideal for use in live performance where phantom power is available (e.g. from the mixing desk). An extended flat frequency response (40-20,000 Hz) and superior transient response, provides a transparent sound.
The AT2010's fixed cardioid polar pattern provides isolation of the direct signal source from other on-stage sounds to the side and rear. The microphone is able to handle high SPLs (up to 136 dB) and has a wide dynamic range (113 dB); its multi-stage grille offers protection against plosives and sibilance without compromising clarity.
48V phantom power is required from either the mixing console or stage box, or from an in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-channel and CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies. Output from the AT2010 is via a low-impedance, 3-pin XLRM-type connector. The AT2010 measures 7.05" long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.00", weighs 8.2 oz, and comes with the AT8470 Quiet-Flex microphone stand clamp and a soft protective carrying pouch.
The AT2010 will be available in the UK from March 2007.
(Chris Henry)