Audio-Technica AT4050 Side-address multi-pattern condenser microphone

Product Overview

The Audio-Technica AT4050 is a large-diaphragm, multi-pattern studio condenser microphone and a longtime studio standard. Three switchable polar patterns — cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight — make it a versatile multi-pattern condenser microphone for vocals, instruments, and room capture in broadcast studios and auditoriums. High SPL handling supports close placement on loud sources.

Product Description

The AT4050 combines two large diaphragms to deliver cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight patterns from one microphone, covering focused, natural, and stereo-technique capture. Its neutral, detailed voicing has made it a dependable choice across vocals, acoustic instruments, overheads, and room miking.

Frequency response runs 20–20,000 Hz with an open circuit sensitivity of –36 dB (15.8 mV), and the microphone handles up to 149 dB SPL (159 dB with the 10 dB pad). Switchable 10 dB pad and 80 Hz high-pass filter adapt it to loud sources and control rumble.

For single-point stereo, the AT4050ST uses the same capsule family, while the AT4047MP offers a warmer, vintage-voiced alternative. The AT4050 requires 48V phantom power.

Key Features

• Three switchable patterns — Cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight patterns let one microphone cover focused, natural, and stereo-technique capture.
• Neutral, detailed voicing — A balanced large-diaphragm sound makes the AT4050 a dependable studio standard across many sources.
• High SPL handling — Handling up to 149 dB SPL (159 dB with the pad) supports close placement on loud sources.
• Switchable pad and filter — A 10 dB pad and 80 Hz high-pass filter adapt the microphone to loud sources and control rumble.
• Dual large diaphragms — Two large diaphragms generate the multiple polar patterns with consistent quality.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three polar patterns for?

Cardioid focuses on the source; omnidirectional captures natural, open sound; figure-of-eight rejects the sides and supports stereo techniques like blumlein and mid-side.

Why is the AT4050 so widely used?

Its neutral, detailed voicing and pattern flexibility make it a dependable studio standard across vocals, instruments, overheads, and rooms.

Does it require phantom power?

Yes. It requires 48V phantom power from your console, interface, or DSP.

Can it handle loud instruments?

Yes. It handles up to 149 dB SPL, or 159 dB with the 10 dB pad engaged.

How does it integrate into our system?

It connects on standard 3-pin XLR to a phantom-powered channel on your mixer or DSP.

What warranty applies?

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