Audio-Technica AT2022 X/Y Stereo Microphone

Comments about Audio-Technica AT2022 X/Y Stereo Microphone:

I got the AT2022 primarily for stereo field sound capture in independent video productions. It has also proven useful for capturing stereo voice at close distances in controlled settings. The all-metal construction and finish is of the highest quality and the mic is rugged enough for extensive field use. The pivoting condenser capsules "float" on their own dense rubber collars, but are solidly attached and positively lock into 90- or 120-degree pickup and flat storage positions. The mic is surprisingly compact and has a comfortable heft to it that's not overbearing.

The mic's performance is outstanding, especially considering the price. Sound quality is clean and crisp, with excellent separation of channels. The switchable low-frequency roll-off feature functions beautifully. A-T includes a fuzzy windscreen that encloses both capsules. I was initially a bit skeptical about how effective the windscreen would be, but after some trial runs and real-world use in the field, I found the performance to be satisfactory. The only downside to this mic is that it operates on 1.5v AA battery power ONLY -- not a major shortcoming for my purposes.

Mic output is a 3-pin XLR male connector, and the supplied 0.5 meter cable terminates in a XLR female connector and a 3.5 mm TRS connector, so an XLR cable extension and/or a 1/8" - 1/4" adapter pin might be something to consider adding to the kit for this mic.

Comments about Audio-Technica AT2022 X/Y Stereo Microphone:

I toiled over getting this new AT2022 or the Rhode NT-4 but decided on this for the money. I figured the NT-4 would be too big and bulky. It also wouldn't sit inconspicuously in the back of the jazz club while I play on stage so in my books, this unit gets all the high marks for the black form-factor and then, it's just beautifully made. It feels like a "REAL mic" in your hands even though the picture makes-it look kind-of plastic-y.

In comparison with other mics in this range, I've personally never used (or listened to) the NT-4 but, all I can say is the fidelity on this AT2022 is just incredible, especially for the money. I mean, I recorded a drummer and myself on Tenor Sax playing in a warm, acoustically-foamed room with the two of us just standing next to each and the recording sounds like the kit had a 8-pc mic set-up in an decent recording studio. Then, it's also VERY versatile for all my cameras too.

Audio Technica has a real winner here on their hands IMO, waaaaaaay better than my old Sony ECM-MS908C and much better than the on-board mics on my Tascam DR-07 mkII. Finally, someone is making a real stereo mic for these mini-recording sessions I love doing. Just get this mic and a 16/24 bit recorder like Tascam's DR-07 mkII or similar(or just a camera) and you're set to start making some real quality recordings. While I certainly wouldn't rule-out getting or trying-out and comparing the NT-4 as well, I know that I'll always have this mic in my gear bag.