Audio-Technica AT4080 Bidirectional ribbon microphone

Product Overview

The Audio-Technica AT4080 is a bidirectional active ribbon microphone that delivers the warm, smooth character of a classic ribbon with the higher output of an active design. Its figure-of-eight pattern and natural high-frequency response suit horns, strings, guitar cabinets, and broadcast voice in studios and auditoriums. Active electronics bring the output up to near-condenser levels for easy preamp matching.

Product Description

The AT4080 pairs a handcrafted ribbon element with active electronics, so it provides the smooth, natural sound ribbons are known for without the very low output that makes traditional ribbons hard to drive. This makes it a practical active ribbon microphone for a wide range of preamps.

Its bidirectional (figure-of-eight) pattern captures equally from front and back while rejecting the sides, which is useful for blumlein and mid-side techniques and for taming room reflections on instruments. The microphone handles high SPL up to 150 dB at 1 kHz (1% THD) for close instrument work.

The AT4080 requires 48V phantom power for its active electronics. For a lower-profile stick-style ribbon, the AT4081 active ribbon microphone shares the same family.

Key Features

• Active ribbon design — Active electronics raise the output to near-condenser levels, making the warm ribbon sound easy to match with any preamp.
• Bidirectional pattern — The figure-of-eight pattern suits blumlein and mid-side techniques and helps control room reflections.
• Warm, natural sound — The handcrafted ribbon element delivers smooth highs and a natural midrange for horns, strings, and voice.
• High SPL handling — Handling up to 150 dB SPL at 1 kHz (1% THD) supports close placement on loud instruments.
• 48V phantom operation — Standard phantom powering integrates with professional consoles, interfaces, and DSP inputs.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

How is an active ribbon different from a passive ribbon?

Active ribbons add powered electronics that raise output to near-condenser levels, so they are far easier to drive with standard preamps than low-output passive ribbons.

Does the AT4080 need phantom power?

Yes. The AT4080 requires 48V phantom power to run its active electronics. Unlike passive ribbons, it should be powered to operate.

What is it good for?

Horns, strings, guitar cabinets, drum overheads, and broadcast voice, where a warm, smooth ribbon character and figure-of-eight pattern are desired.

Can it handle loud sources?

Yes. It handles up to 150 dB SPL at 1 kHz (1% THD), supporting close placement on loud instruments.

How does it integrate into our system?

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