User Guide

• Condenser design for studio-quality vocal and instrument
applications
• Excels in high-SPL applications
• Extended response for smooth, natural sonic characteristics
• Low-mass element for superb transient response
• Corrosion-resistant gold-plated XLRM-type connector
• Rugged design and construction for reliable performance
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides
and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
The AT2021 is intended for use in professional applications where
remote power is available. It requires 48V DC phantom power, which
may be provided by a mixer or console, or by a separate, in-line
source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 singlechannel or
CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies.
Output from the microphone's XLRM-type connector 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.
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.
†
In the interest of standards development, A.T.U.S. offers full details on its test methods
to other industry professionals on request.
*1 Pascal = 10 dynes/cm
2
= 10 microbars = 94 dB SPL
1
Typical, A-weighted, using Audio Precision System One. Specifications
are subject to change without notice.
•Ideal for acoustic guitar, overheads, piano and group vocals
AT2021 SPECIFICATIONS
†
ELEMENT
Fixed-charge back plate
permanently polarized condenser
POLAR PATTERN
Cardioid
FREQUENCY RESPONSE
Hz
30-20,000
OPEN CIRCUIT SENSITIVITY
–39 dB (11.2 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa*
IMPEDANCE
ohms
250
MAXIMUM INPUT SOUND LEVEL
dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.
145
NOISE
1
19
dB SPL
DYNAMIC RANGE
(
typical)
126
dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO
1
dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa*
75
PHANT
OM POWER
V DC
48
, 2 mA typical
REQUIREMENTS
WEIGHT
2.9
)
oz (83 g
(
less accessories)
DIMENSIONS
4.00
" (101.5 mm) long,
0.83
" (21.0 mm) maximum body
diameter
OUTPUT CONNECTOR
Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
ACCESSORIES FURNISHED
Stand clamp; soft protective pouch
AT2021
SMALL-DIAPHRAGM CARDIOID
CONDENSER MICROPHONE