Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone
The Audio Technica AT899 is a sub-miniature condenser lavalier microphone designed to deliver high sonic performance in a low-profile, easily concealable package. Intended for interviews, documentary, film, theater, and stage applications, the AT899's omnidirectional pick-up pattern captures evenly around the perimeter of the capsule as well as directly in-line. The microphones 5mm size is ideal in applications requiring minimal visibility. The microphones 9.8' (3 meter) cable is terminated with a 3-pin TA3F output connector, suitable for use with the AT-8537 power module (included). The capsule features a smooth flat 20Hz to 20,000Hz frequency response, capturing a wide range of frequencies and making the microphone versatile.
- Sub-Miniature Design
- The AT899 measures only 5mm making it easily concealable for on-camera recording, theatrical and live sound applications.
- Omnidirectional Pattern
- The omnidirectional pick-up pattern captures audio with even sensitivity around the perimeter of the microphone.
- High Sonic Performance
- The element boasts an even, flat frequency response of 20Hz to 20,000Hz with a dynamic range of 108dB (Phantom Power).
- Phantom and Battery Powered
- Includes the AT8537 phantom power supply and XLR connector. The power supply will accept phantom power, or 1.5V AA battery power (included).
| Transducer | Fixed-charge plate, permanently polarized condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
| Frequency Response | 20-20,000Hz |
| Dynamic Range (Typical) |
Phantom: 108dB, 1kHz at Max SPL Battery: 86dB, 1kHz at Max SPL |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 64dB, 1kHz at 1Pa |
| Maximum Input Sound Level |
Phantom: 138dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% THD Battery: 116dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% THD |
| Power Requirements |
Phantom: 11-52V DC, 2mA typical
Battery: 1.5V AA/UM3 |
| Output Impedance |
Phantom: 200 ohms Battery: 250 ohms |
| Output Connectors |
Mic Cable: TA3F output Power Module: Balanced 3-pin XLR |
| Pad | No |
| Low Frequency Roll-Off | Low Frequency Roll-Off Switch - frequency curve not specified |
| Dimensions |
Microphone: 0.63 x 0.20" (16.0 x 5.0mm) (Length x Diameter) Power Module: 5.71 x 0.83" (145 x 21.0mm)(Length x Diameter) |
| Weight |
Microphone: 0.02oz (0.5g) Power Module: 3.6oz (102g) (less cable and accessories) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 40 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Lightweight (30)
- Good audio (26)
- Easy to use (24)
- Compact (20)
- Versatile (13)
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional recording (21)
- Amateur recording (12)
- Home studio (11)
- Outdoor events / games (9)
- Professional (9)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (18), Tech savvy (8), Novice (7), Professional musician (3)
- Primary use:
- Business (10)
Most Liked Positive Review
Good Clean Dialogue - Easy to use
I bought a few of the AT899 to record dialogue for a feature length film I am shooting. Not having a lot of experience, I wanted something easy to use that would just give ...Read complete review
I bought a few of the AT899 to record dialogue for a feature length film I am shooting. Not having a lot of experience, I wanted something easy to use that would just give me plain old clean clear dialogue. The AT899 delivers.
My setup is very straightforward. I connect the AT899 Mics to a Microtrack Recorder ($299 - uses compact flash cards) via a XLRF to 1/4 TRS cable which you can get for about $18 each. I then concealed the mics under the actors clothing (6 inches below the chin - under the shirt - using the clips that the AT899 comes with). The mic/wiring is concealed under the clothing and the recorder is attached to the back of the actor's pants via an easily made homemade clip to attach.
The results are great. First of all - no hiss or hum on these mics...just clear dialogue. Second, in quiet areas you only hear dialogue. In noisy areas, like restaurants or walking on a sidewalk with traffic going by...you get clear dialogue with the background noise sounding like proper low level background noise. Very natural. The dialogue is dominant...and the background noise is a nice low level natural background noise. Third, not doing any type of special taping/attaching of the mics...merely attached them to the actor's shirt (concealed) and resting against their chests...the mics still sounded clear as the actors walked around and talked while walking. (I eventually started doing a taping/attachment of the mic in such a way that the mic isn't touching the shirt interior or the actors chest. I did becuase when I tested the walking/talkiing...every 2 minutes I might hear 1 scratch/clothing rubbing noise.) Fourth, when the actors moved their heads up, left or right as talking...the dialogue all sounded the same...all good. (One thing to watch is when an actor drops their head/chin down and talks down...this is the only time the mic didn't perform well...and the sound was slightly distorted. But this is simple...merely instruct your actors to not drop their heads while talking and you're set.)
Another bonus with using concealed lav mics like this with a concealed recorder - you don't have to worry about composing shots that avoid a boom mic.
Bottom line - for indie film guys like me...this is THE MIC SETUP you want to use if you want simple/easy to use mics that just give you clean clear dialogue.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Wonderful, But power supply bulky/heavy.
This little microphone has phenomenal sensitivity and fidelity. But in many applications, the bulky power supply defeats the reason for "subminiature." The whole thing is too bulky and heavy to hide i...Read complete review
This little microphone has phenomenal sensitivity and fidelity. But in many applications, the bulky power supply defeats the reason for "subminiature." The whole thing is too bulky and heavy to hide in clothing.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 40 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Clear Sound
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- Not wireless
- Sound pick up little low
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
The microphone is definitely in a good prosumer category. The quality of sound is solid and the construction seems to be well built, though I haven't used it much yet. The levels are a little low which reguire a high gain adjustment which does bring up background hiss, but for the money you can't beat it. I suggest to tell the talent to speak a little loud and you will have great quality recordings.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
For the price, I think this was a great mic to buy. It gives a full sound, nice lows and crisp. I have experience with cheapo lavs and there is a big jump in quality. One thing I haven't been able to find is a clip to harness the power adapter onto my subjects' belt, but I'm probably not looking in the right places.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Limited Functions
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
This product gives pretty clear sound. It's uses are limited as it is not wireless. You get what you pay for with mic's and this one is good for it's price.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
I use these mics with my Marantz PMD661 digital recorder and love them! They plug directly into the Marantz and the sound quality is amazing!
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Performances
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
used to film instructional dvds
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Studio
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
it is small, it doesn't think that much room on a person visually. It also plugs straight into the camera or mixer, no need for xlr cable. And the sound quality is great.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
I use the mike for interviews, so far it has worked very well. I only bought it a couple of weeks ago, but very happy with it.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
Good quality and easy to use.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Video Production
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
Use for video.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
I use this microphone to record individuals in depositions.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
This mic works and sounds great. I have been a still photographer for many years and my partner and I have been integrating video into our projects more and more.
We use a Panasonic DVX100 camera and have always tried using the built in mics or a shotgun mic. I have shied away from wireless lavs due to costs and technical hassles.
We used this mic for our first interview/walkthru shoot last week and it worked flawlessly. Great sound, great pick-up, easy to hide. Everything just went perfectly.
I wish I'd bought it years ago.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
While I don't have much experience with wired lavaliers, I do have lots of experience with a wide range of other professional mics (MA2000, KM184, AT4050, etc.) Like the AT4050, I find that the AT 899 is a winner in the bang-for-your buck department and a thoroughly useable professional quality mic. It sounds excellent and its audio requires very little post-recording tweaking (a quality I highly prize in mics.) The wide variety of included mounting accessories make this package all the more attractive. In my opinion, the mic alone is worth the price. And, I didn't find a better price for the mic than B&H's price. I'm a happy customer and expect to buy another of these very soon.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
We've got a wireless lavaliere, but are always nervous about the batteries dying in the middle of recording, which has happened several times, so we bought this mic. We often record in facility behind a podium where a wired mic works just fine, so no worry about batteries. This little mic works fantastic.
Unlike our Sony wireless lavaliere which performed well on auto gain, this mic required manual and slightly higher setting, but once adjusted, fantastic sound.
Nice carry case with various attachments and accessories. Lapel clip is sturdier than most. The cable has a tendency to kink, rather than unfurling straight, which was annoying at first, took some light twisting of the cable to finally get it to lie straight out.
Another benefit to the power module is that if the talent needs to walk away from the camera for a moment (bathroom break, etc.) they simply unplug the power module and drop it in their pocket, rather than going through the motions of unclipping the mic, which is usually buried underneath clothes.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Easy To Use
- Versatile
Cons
- Bulky/Heavy
Best Uses
- Events
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
This little microphone has phenomenal sensitivity and fidelity. But in many applications, the bulky power supply defeats the reason for "subminiature." The whole thing is too bulky and heavy to hide in clothing.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
I have used this once for several short video shoots in an office setting. I am not a professional videographer but I did work as a TV reporter for 15 years and I have no issues with the quality. Plugged it into a Canon Vixia HD video camera using an XLR to mini jack converter. No detectable buzz or hum. Clip is good quality. One inconvenience is that the power switch on the mic is embedded too deep so you have to use the tip of a pen or a paperclip to turn the mic on and off. Not a big deal but could be improved. Also, the mic cable could be a couple feet longer. Combined with the XLR converter it's about 10 feet which is just enough to go between subject and camera underneath a desk.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Great accessory kit
- Great Build Quality
Cons
- A little too sibilant
Best Uses
- Events
- Home Studio
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
Note that the mic comes in a snap enclosure hard case with precut foam interior, and a full accessory kit with several different mic clips and windscreens (all the items of the separate $50 accessory pack).
My only hesitation on a 5* rating is that the mic is a bit too sibilant on the Tees and eSses. I was monitoring through a H4n and Sony 7506 phones, which are a bit bright anyways. Still, I much prefer excess articulation to muddy sound. Just be aware of placement off axis to minimize it and you're fine.
Overall a great mic set. Small and unobtrusive, and lots of ways to attach it - even a micro-magnet backed clip to go right through thin clothing.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
I am soo glad I bought two of these mics! They sound great at a great price!
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
This microphone records great sound. It does exactly what you expect it should do. You plug it in and record without worrying about the quality of the sound. I have used in a very large room with a lot of background and ambient noise. It recorded the on camera talent perfectly with very minimal pick up of the background or ambient noise. It is nice to have equipment that can deliver such quality and not break the bank. I would highly recommend this product.
Pros
- Clear Sound
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
I use this product for both interview style shoots and weddings (when wireless are being used). The mic is great quality though do be careful when you have the power module connected to camera xlr and moving because it's very easy to hit off and break pins... Something I do not like is the mic clips. They are bulky and stand out very easily. I'd buy separate clips if you can. Very easy to use.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Professional Recording
Comments about Audio-Technica AT899 - Condenser Lavalier Microphone:
Good value for the money. I'm happy with the results.
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Batteries & Power
- Price: $1.50
-
- Original: $13.99
- Save: $1.40
- Price: $12.59
Cables
-
- Original: $14.95
- Save: $1.49
- Price: $13.46
Accessory Packages
- Price: $45.95
Cases & Protection
- Price: $11.95
What's in the Box
- AT-8537 Power Module
- AA 1.5V Alkaline Battery
- AT8438 Microphone Clip
- Clothing Clip Base
- Viper Clip Base
- Magnet Clip Base
- Plate with Lanyard
- 3 x Single Mic Holders
- 2 x Element Covers
- 2 x Windscreens
- Carrying Case
- 1 Year Warranty
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