Audio-Technica AT4900B-48 Condenser Microphone Body

Product Overview

The Audio-Technica AT4900b-48 is a modular microphone body that forms the powering and output stage for Audio-Technica's 40 Series interchangeable capsules. It pairs with AT4049b-EL (omnidirectional), AT4051b-EL (cardioid), and AT4053b-EL (hypercardioid) head capsules, which are sold separately, so a single body can serve multiple polar patterns. With direct-coupled, transformerless balanced output and 48V phantom operation, it suits broadcast studios, auditoriums, and houses of worship that need a flexible studio condenser platform.

Product Description

Buying the body and capsules separately lets a facility build exactly the microphones it needs and switch polar patterns by changing the head capsule rather than the whole microphone. This modular approach is efficient for studios and install racks that cover several applications.

The AT4900b-48 uses direct-coupled balanced outputs for clean signals in high-output conditions, free of the distortion associated with transformer-coupled designs. Its fast transient response supports open, transparent reproduction of difficult instruments and voices.

Note that the head capsule is required for operation and is not included with the body. For acoustic instruments, overheads, and spoken-word capture in broadcast and worship environments, choose the capsule that matches the pattern your application needs. The body requires 48V phantom power from your console, interface, or DSP front end.

Key Features

• Modular 40 Series body — One body works with AT4049b-EL, AT4051b-EL, and AT4053b-EL head capsules, letting you change polar pattern without replacing the microphone.
• Transformerless direct-coupled output — Direct-coupled balanced output delivers clean signals at high output without transformer-related distortion.
• Fast transient response — The body's response supports transparent reproduction of detailed acoustic sources.
• 48V phantom operation — Standard 48V phantom powering integrates with professional consoles, interfaces, and DSP inputs.
• Capsules sold separately — Specify the omnidirectional, cardioid, or hypercardioid capsule that matches each application.

Typical Applications

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

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the AT4900b-48 work on its own?

No. It is the body/electronics only and requires one of the 40 Series interchangeable head capsules (AT4049b-EL, AT4051b-EL, or AT4053b-EL) to function. Capsules are sold separately.

Why choose a modular body and capsules?

A modular system lets you change polar pattern by swapping the capsule, which is cost-effective for studios and installs that need several patterns from one inventory of bodies.

What phantom power does it need?

The AT4900b-48 requires 48V phantom power, available from professional consoles, audio interfaces, and many DSP inputs.

What is the benefit of the transformerless output?

Direct-coupled balanced output avoids transformer-related distortion at high output levels, supporting clean, transparent signal capture.

Which capsule should I select for our application?

Choose omnidirectional (AT4049b-EL) for natural room capture, cardioid (AT4051b-EL) for focused pickup with off-axis rejection, or hypercardioid (AT4053b-EL) for tighter directionality in louder rooms.

What warranty and support apply?

Audio-Technica provides a limited warranty; refer to their current terms for coverage. Creation Networks assists with warranty and capsule selection on orders placed with us.