Audio-Technica AT897 Line + Gradient Condenser Microphone

Audio-Technica AT897 Shotgun Microphone

Audio-Technica AT897 is a fixed-charge condenser microphone with a line + gradient polar pattern. It is designed for video production, broadcast (ENG/EFP) audio acquisition, wildlife recording and high-quality sound reinforcement.

The Audio-Technica AT897 microphone requires 11V to 52V phantom power or a 1.5V AA battery for operation. A battery need not be in place for phantom power operation. The AT897 microphone’s highly directional polar pattern provides a narrow acceptance angle along with crisp, intelligible audio reproduction desirable for long-distance sound pickup.

The output of the microphone is a 3-pin XLR-M type connector. A switch permits choice of flat response or low-frequency roll-off (via integral 80 Hz high-pass filter) to help control undesired ambient noise.

The microphone is enclosed in a rugged housing. The included AT8405a stand clamp permits mounting on any microphone stand with 5/8″-27 threads. A windscreen, two o-rings, a battery and a protective carrying case are also included.

Operation and Maintenance

The AT897 requires 11V to 52V phantom power or a 1.5V AA battery for operation. A battery need not be in place for phantom power operation.

To install the battery, unscrew the lower section of the microphone body, just below the nameplate. Insert a fresh 1.5V AA battery in the handle compartment (“+” end up), then reassemble the microphone. Alkaline batteries are recommended for longest life. Remove the battery during long-term storage.

Output is low impedance (Lo-Z) balanced. The signal appears across Pins 2 and 3; Pin 1 is ground (shield). Output phase is “Pin 2 hot”— positive acoustic pressure produces positive voltage at Pin 2.

To avoid phase cancellation and poor sound, all mic cables must be wired consistently: Pin 1-to-Pin 1, etc.

An integral 80 Hz high-pass filter provides easy switching from a flat frequency response to a low-end roll-off. The roll-off position reduces the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.), room reverberation and mechanically coupled vibrations.

To engage the high-pass filter, use the end tip of a paperclip or other small pointed instrument to slide the switch toward the “bent” line. Avoid leaving the microphone in the open sun or in areas where temperatures exceed 110° F (43° C) for extended periods. Extremely high humidity should also be avoided.

Note: To use the microphone with a camera-mount microphone holder whose diameter is too large to secure the microphone, slide the two supplied o-rings onto the microphone handle, spaced so that one fits just in front of, and the other fits just behind, the rubber nubs inside the microphone holder. When the top of the microphone holder is closed and tightened down, the o-rings should hold the microphone securely
in place.

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Sankari CC-11/Oct24