Audio-Technica AE2500 Cardioid condenser and dynamic dual-element instrument microphone

Product Overview

The Audio-Technica AE2500 is a dual-element instrument microphone that places a cardioid condenser and a dynamic capsule in a single housing, giving engineers two coordinated outputs from one mic position. It is widely used on kick drum and other low-frequency sources where the dynamic element captures attack and the condenser captures body and shell tone. For broadcast studios, auditoriums, and houses of worship that reinforce live instruments, the AE2500 simplifies miking by removing phase issues between two separate microphones.

Product Description

Because both elements share one capsule axis, the two signals stay time-aligned, so blending the dynamic and condenser at the console is straightforward. The dynamic element delivers the aggressive attack of the beater, while the condenser captures the rounder tonalities of the shell.

The condenser side includes a switchable 10 dB pad and a switch for flat response or an 80 Hz low-frequency roll-off, which helps tailor low end in reinforced rooms. The 5 m shielded cable terminates in a 5-pin XLRF input and breaks out to two standard 3-pin XLRM outputs, so each element routes to its own console channel.

In commercial AV and live production, the AE2500 is a practical choice for kick drum, percussion, and other dynamic low-frequency instruments where a single, repeatable mic position is preferred. The condenser handles high SPL up to 148 dB, supporting close placement on loud sources.

Key Features

• Dual condenser and dynamic elements — Two coordinated capsules in one housing let engineers blend attack and body without phase problems between separate microphones.
• Time-aligned outputs — A shared capsule axis keeps the dynamic and condenser signals aligned, making console blending predictable and fast.
• Switchable 10 dB pad — The condenser element's pad allows close placement on high-SPL sources without overloading the input.
• Selectable low-frequency roll-off — An 80 Hz roll-off on the condenser helps control excess low end in reinforced rooms.
• Dual-output cable — The 5 m cable breaks out from a 5-pin XLRF to two 3-pin XLRM connectors so each element feeds its own channel.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio
• Auditorium
• House of worship
• Multi-purpose room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the AE2500 have two outputs?

It contains separate condenser and dynamic elements, each routed to its own XLR output so you can blend them at the console. The condenser appears on pins 2/3 and the dynamic on pins 4/5 of the 5-pin input.

Does the condenser element need phantom power?

Yes. The condenser element requires phantom power from your console or interface. The dynamic element does not, but phantom power on a combined input does not harm it on balanced lines.

Is the AE2500 only for kick drum?

Kick drum is its most common use, but it suits any loud low-frequency source where one repeatable position and a condenser/dynamic blend are useful, including percussion and cabinets.

Can I use just one element?

Yes. You can patch and use either the dynamic or condenser output alone, or blend both. Each output is an independent balanced channel.

How is it integrated in a live or broadcast system?

Both XLR outputs route to separate input channels on your mixer or DSP. The 10 dB pad and 80 Hz roll-off let you condition the condenser channel for high-SPL, reinforced environments.

What warranty applies?

Audio-Technica provides a limited warranty on the AE2500; refer to their current warranty terms for coverage. Creation Networks supports warranty and product questions on orders placed with us.