Audio-Technica ATM410 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

Audio-Technica ATM410 Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone

The Audio-Technica ATM410 is a handheld dynamic vocal microphone from the Artist Series, designed for close-up vocal use in professional live-sound applications. Its cardioid polar pattern, Hi-ENERGY neodymium magnet and multi-stage grille are all aimed at one job: reproducing a voice smoothly and naturally on stage while rejecting the sounds around it. The ATM410 is a passive wired microphone with an integral 3-pin XLRM output, so it connects directly to the microphone input of a mixer, PA system or audio interface with a standard balanced cable. Rugged all-metal construction is built for years of trouble-free use on the road.

Key features

• Dynamic element tailored for smooth, natural vocal reproduction
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup from the sides and rear
• Hi-ENERGY neodymium magnet for improved output and transient response
• Frequency response of 90 Hz to 16,000 Hz
• Multi-stage grille design controls plosives and sibilance
• Superior anti-shock engineering for low handling noise
• Gold-plated XLRM-type connector with corrosion-resistant contacts
• Rugged all-metal design and construction

Cardioid pickup for stage isolation

A cardioid microphone is most sensitive to sound arriving directly in front of the element and progressively less sensitive to sound from the sides and rear. On a live stage that behaviour is practical, not theoretical: it improves isolation of the desired voice from other performers and instruments, and the excellent off-axis rejection helps keep monitor loudspeakers from ringing into feedback. Singers can work the microphone close, which is how the ATM410 is designed to be used, and the tailored response keeps the vocal clear and present without harshness at normal working distances.

Grille, shock mounting and handling

The multi-stage grille design offers protection against plosives and sibilant sounds without compromising high-frequency clarity, so breath blasts on hard consonants are controlled before they reach the element. Inside, superior anti-shock engineering keeps handling noise low when the microphone is passed between speakers or adjusted on its stand. The supplied AT8470 Quiet-Flex stand clamp provides silent, flexible microphone positioning on 5/8 inch-27 threaded stands, and a 5/8 inch-27 to 3/8 inch-16 threaded adapter is included for stands with the smaller thread. A soft protective pouch is also furnished for transport.

Connection and powering

The output is a low-impedance balanced signal on an integral 3-pin XLRM-type connector; pin 2 is positive, pin 1 is shield and ground, and pin 3 carries the balanced return. As a passive dynamic microphone, the ATM410 needs no battery and no phantom power: plug it into any standard microphone input, set gain for the loudest expected passage, and it is ready. Open circuit sensitivity is rated at -55 dB (1.7 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa, with a 300 ohm impedance that suits the input stage of typical live mixers and interfaces.

At 233 g and 170.0 mm long with a 53.5 mm head diameter, the ATM410 has the balanced, substantial feel expected of a professional vocal microphone without being tiring to hold through a long set. It suits lead and backing vocalists, presenters, comperes and spoken-word performers who need a dependable wired microphone for live sound, rehearsal rooms and house-of-worship or event PA systems.