As the latest incarnation of the well regarded AT4033 studio and bluegrass mic, the Audio-Technica AT4033a is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone designed for detailed, clean, low-noise reproduction of vocals and various instruments, making it a versatile tool in project studios and home setups as well as for commercial facilities. The vapor-deposited gold diaphragm is pre-aged to stay sonically consistent over time while the transformerless circuitry minimizes low-end breakup and contributes to enhanced transient response. Additionally, the precision-machined acoustic baffle yields increased stability.

The capsule assembly’s floating construction lessens vibration and a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter offers at-the-source reduction of rumble and low-frequency buildup. Thanks to the custom shockmount, the AT4033a is further isolated from vibration and stand-borne noise. Since it can take high SPLs without distorting—up to 155 dB with the -10 dB pad engaged—the mic is a great choice for loud instruments in addition to nuanced, intimate performances.

For Vocals and Instruments    Cardioid Pattern Reduces Room Noise    -10 dB Pad Switch    80 Hz High-Pass Filter Switch    Shockmount Isolates Mic from Vibrations    2-Micron, Vapor-Deposited Gold Diaphragm    Transformerless Circuitry    Floating-Construction Capsule Assembly    XLR Output Connector    48V Phantom Powered

The latest edition of the legendary AT4033 microphone, the side-address AT4033a offers low-noise, symmetrical, transformerless circuitry that results in exceptional transient response and clean output signals.

A studio classic and bluegrass favorite, the AT4033 cardioid studio condenser is the microphone that broke the $1000 barrier in its class. A strong up-front presence characterizes the sonic signature of this 40 Series pro audio classic.

The AT4033a's 80 Hz high-pass filter easily switches between flat frequency response and a low-cut filter that diminishes ambient noise and popping with closely miked vocals. The -10 dB pad allows distortion-free pickup of blaring instruments such as drums and guitar amps.

Thanks to the floating-construction capsule assembly and provided custom shockmount, the AT4033a provides effective isolation from noise and vibration.

• Cardioid polar pattern for directional focus and rejection of off-axis sounds
• High maximum SPL of 145 dB (155 dB SPL with -10 dB pad engaged)
• Transformerless circuitry minimizes low-frequency distortion and provides enhanced correlation of high-speed transients
• Precision-machined, nickel-plated brass acoustic baffle provides enhanced element stability and optimal sensitivity
• 2-micron, vapor-deposited gold diaphragm undergoes a five-step aging process so that the optimum characteristics achieved remain constant over years of use
• Floating-construction capsule assembly provides isolation from noise and vibration
• Open acoustical environment of the symmetrical housing assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections
• Surface-mount electronics ensure compliance with Audio-Technica's stringent consistency and reliability standards
• Custom shockmount provides superior isolation
• XLR 3-pin output connector
• Runs on 48V phantom power

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Where can I get a wind cover for this microphone?

A: Auray - Fuzzy Windbuster for Lavalier Microphones (Black) B&H# AUWLW

Q: 2. Does this microphone connect with laptops and mpcs

A: This large diaphragm microphone would require an audio interface with the ability to provide 48 volt phantom power in order to connect to a computer. A very good choice would be the Audient iD14 10x4 USB Audio Interface, B&H # AUID14.

Q: 3. Hello. I wonder how noisy it is? How does it work for recording low volume stuff?

A: The AT2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is designed for general instrument capturing, vocals, amplifier cabinets, and similar applications. It's signal to noise ratio is 75db and has a max SPL of 145db. It features a Cardioid polar pattern, reducing sound pickup from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source.

Q: 4. Can I connect this mic through a Rode AI-1 audio interface to my PC using the XLR connector from the included power module?

A: Yes, the Audio-Technica AT831b Cardioid Condenser Lavalier Microphone can be connected to an audio interface such as the Rode AI-1 using an XLR cable.

Q: 5. Does this microphone have GSM or cell phone interference? I have the AT803b, and I get interference from GSM cell phones near the microphone.

A: I haven't noticed cell interference, but it does have a ton of handling noise. Even the faintest fabric rustle is pretty noticeable.

Q: 6. Using for interviews.I'm getting a lot of noise from this microphone that I wouldn't expect. Very sensitive to any movement near the microphone like a jacket moving, heavy breaths causes overmodulation. I use the windscreen at all times and that helps some. It's pretty annoying. I've used dozens of mics over the years and have never had this much problems. Am I doing something wrong?Any suggestions? Would a unidirectional mic be better.

A: The Audio-Technica AT831B is a unidirectional microphone, suitable for professional video, broadcast and sound reinforcement applications. The fact that it is a condenser makes it more sensitive than your traditional dynamic hand-held interview mic. In video production, condensers are preferred because of their sensitivity- especially when pristine audio is demanded. In your case, I would try a couple of things before considering a mic change. 1. Engage the low-cut filter. The power switch has three positions: off , flat , and low-cut . The low-cut filter makes the microphone less sensitive to low frequencies found in wind, breath noise, and general ambiance. 2. Consider adding the Rycote Undercover (B&H#RYUC) lavalier wind cover and adhesive mount to your sound bag. The covers help reduce rustling noise caused by cable movement and friction between the mic element and clothing.

Q: 7. Is the end of the cable an XLR connector? I have phantom power on my field recorder and don't want to add any power modules.

A: The Audio-Technica AT831B terminates in a TA3 (miniXLR) connector, but the included power module has a regular XLR output.

Q: 8. Would this be a good mic for recording a rally if crossed and paired with the zoom h6?

A: Yes, it is an excellent little mike that could be used with just about any recorder with a powered input. The Zoom does have that. I bought two of them to augment the AT-2050 mikes that I already have, to record close-up sounds such as the singer or the piano in a band. Small and versatile.

Q: 9. Is there a good case to put this equipment in? I am looking to be able to pack it up and take it with me when necessary

A: I have not seen a compatible case for this reflection filter or one like it. I surmise that a case for something odd-shaped such as this reflection filter would be unreasonably large. I have a slightly larger reflection filter that I just bag up in a clear plastic bag, or I put it into a drum throne bag if I want it padded.

Q: 10. What is the weight of this mic with the appropriate suspension mount?

A: The weight of the Audio-Technica AT4047/SV is about 1 pound.