Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone

Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone — image 1
Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone — image 2
Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone — image 3
87%
94%
Sound Quality
88%
Build Quality
86%
Ease of Use
92%
Durability
90%
Performance in Live Settings
75%
Weight & Handling
89%
Noise Isolation
93%
Versatility for Percussion
82%
Value for Money
87%
Setup and Installation
90%
Mic Sensitivity
78%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone is a versatile mic designed for capturing percussive instruments with precision. Featuring a unique dual-element design, this microphone combines both a dynamic and a condenser element within a single housing, allowing it to capture the aggressive attack of the beater and the rich tonality of the shell. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures focused sound capture, making it ideal for environments with background noise. Whether you’re recording in the studio or performing live, this microphone offers a durable design built to withstand the demands of professional use.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this dual-element mic is its ability to capture both the aggressive attack of the instrument and the more subtle tonal richness. The built-in 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad help improve sound clarity, particularly in high-pressure environments. Additionally, the unidirectional cardioid pattern reduces ambient noise, focusing only on the desired sound. With phase-coherent elements, the AE2500 ensures accurate sound reproduction, making it a reliable choice for both live performances and studio recordings.

Best For

The AE2500 microphone is best suited for musicians, sound engineers, and audio professionals who work with drums and percussion instruments. Its robust design makes it a great fit for both live sound engineers needing reliable, roadworthy equipment and those who require a high-quality mic for detailed recordings in the studio. Whether you’re miking a drum kit for a live performance or capturing intricate percussion details in the studio, this microphone offers exceptional versatility and performance.

User Feedback

Many users praise this microphone for its versatility in capturing both the attack and tone of percussion instruments, especially drums. It’s also noted for its ease of setup and consistent sound quality, making it a popular choice among professionals. However, some users mention that it feels slightly heavier compared to other mics in its class, which may affect its handling for certain applications. Despite this, the AE2500’s overall performance and dependability in demanding environments continue to earn it high marks from users.

#Instrument Wireless Microphones
#Wireless Microphones & Systems
#Microphones
#Microphones & Accessories
#Musical Instruments

Pros

  • This microphone offers excellent tonal richness and clarity, ideal for capturing both the attack and nuances of percussive instruments.
  • The dual-element design effectively combines dynamic and condenser elements, delivering a versatile sound profile.
  • It excels in live performance setups, offering robust construction and reliable sound quality under demanding conditions.
  • The cardioid polar pattern isolates the sound source well, reducing unwanted ambient noise in noisy environments.
  • Users appreciate the ease of setup, with many mentioning how quickly they can get it working in live and studio settings.
  • The 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad contribute to cleaner sound with fewer low-end distortions.

Cons

  • Some users find the microphone heavier than others in its class, making it less comfortable for prolonged use.
  • The microphone is more suited for percussion and drum recordings, making it less versatile for other instrument types without adjustments.
  • At times, achieving the perfect setup for isolation in very loud environments requires additional tweaking.
  • The weight and larger size make it less portable for musicians who need lightweight gear for frequent travel.
  • A few users have reported that it may not always deliver the best results for vocal recording or speech applications.
  • Its relatively high price may not be justified for users who don’t need the specific features designed for percussive instruments.

Ratings

The Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone has been evaluated based on verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages around the world. Only authentic, high-quality reviews were considered, filtering out spam, bot-generated, and exaggerated comments. The results reflect both the strengths and areas of concern highlighted by real users, offering a comprehensive overview of its performance and user experience.

Sound Quality
94%
Users consistently praise this microphone's ability to capture a wide range of tones, offering both aggressive attack and tonal richness. The dual-element design provides an impressive dynamic response, making it especially appreciated for live performances and recording drum kits.
Some users noted that while the sound quality is excellent, it can occasionally pick up unwanted noise in certain environments, requiring additional adjustments to avoid interference. However, this is mostly a concern for specific recording setups.
Build Quality
88%
The microphone is well-regarded for its sturdy build, making it a reliable choice for both studio and live performances. Its robust construction ensures longevity, with many buyers mentioning its ability to withstand rough handling during transport and setup.
A few users expressed concerns about its weight, stating that compared to other mics in the same category, it feels a bit heavier. This could make it less ideal for those looking for lightweight options for on-the-go use.
Ease of Use
86%
Many reviewers found this microphone to be simple to set up and use. The intuitive design and user-friendly controls ensure a smooth experience, even for those who are new to professional-grade microphones.
While setup is generally straightforward, some users noted that the additional adjustments for optimal performance can be time-consuming. Additionally, those new to dual-element microphones may take a bit longer to master its full potential.
Durability
92%
Buyers are impressed with the microphone's durability, with many using it for both indoor and outdoor events. It’s built to handle the demands of frequent transport, making it ideal for musicians and sound engineers working on the road.
While the microphone is designed to be durable, a small number of users mentioned the possibility of wear and tear over extended use, especially in harsher conditions. However, these instances are relatively rare.
Performance in Live Settings
90%
This microphone excels in live settings, providing excellent clarity and precision even in noisy environments. Its cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates the desired sound source, making it a favorite for stage performances, especially for miking drums.
A few reviewers pointed out that in very large or acoustically challenging venues, the microphone may require some additional tuning to capture the sound as effectively as it does in smaller, controlled environments.
Weight & Handling
75%
25%
Several users mentioned that while the microphone's weight gives it a solid feel, it may be beneficial for those who prioritize a more substantial, less flimsy microphone during use.
A common criticism is the microphone’s relatively heavy build, which can be uncomfortable for extended use. Those who need to mount it for long hours or travel frequently may find its weight a bit cumbersome compared to lighter alternatives.
Noise Isolation
89%
The unidirectional polar pattern works well in minimizing ambient noise, allowing users to focus on capturing clear, detailed sound from the intended source. This feature is particularly valued for drum recording and live setups where isolation is critical.
While the microphone does a good job of rejecting unwanted sound, some users noted that in extremely noisy environments, it may still require careful positioning to achieve the best results. This can be a minor inconvenience in certain live performance scenarios.
Versatility for Percussion
93%
This microphone is highly praised for its versatility in capturing percussion instruments, particularly drums. The dynamic and condenser elements combine to provide a well-rounded, accurate capture of both attack and tonal nuances, making it a top choice for percussion-heavy recordings.
Some users feel that while the mic excels with percussion, it may not be the best option for other types of instruments without some adjustments. For those using it for non-percussive instruments, the results may vary.
Value for Money
82%
18%
Many users feel that the microphone offers strong value for its price, especially considering its versatility and durability. It’s seen as an investment for serious audio professionals who need reliable performance in both studio and live settings.
Despite its strong performance, some buyers noted that it’s priced higher than comparable models, especially for users who may not need all the advanced features. Those looking for a budget-friendly option may find it a bit too expensive.
Setup and Installation
87%
Setting up this microphone is generally hassle-free, with clear instructions provided. Users often mention that it’s easy to integrate into various setups without needing a lot of technical expertise.
While setup is mostly straightforward, some buyers did note that it may require fine-tuning for optimal performance. For those less familiar with microphone setups, this extra step could be a challenge.
Mic Sensitivity
90%
The microphone's sensitivity ensures a broad range of sound is captured, making it suitable for capturing nuanced details in both live and studio settings. Many users appreciate its clarity in reproducing intricate sounds from instruments.
However, some reviewers pointed out that its high sensitivity can occasionally pick up too much background noise if not positioned properly. Users in noisy environments may need to adjust the placement or apply additional noise-reducing techniques.
Customer Support
78%
22%
A portion of users reported positive experiences with Audio-Technica's customer service, citing quick responses and helpful support when troubleshooting issues. Many appreciate the helpfulness and professionalism of the staff.
However, a number of users expressed frustration with delayed response times or unclear solutions from customer support. Some found it difficult to get timely assistance with more complex issues, which detracts from the overall service experience.

Suitable for:

The Audio-Technica AE2500 Dual-element Cardioid Instrument Microphone is an excellent choice for musicians, audio engineers, and live sound professionals who need a reliable, high-quality mic for capturing percussive instruments, particularly drums. Its dual-element design provides both aggressive attack and tonal richness, making it ideal for drum miking in both studio and live performance settings. Live sound engineers will appreciate its cardioid polar pattern, which isolates the sound source while minimizing unwanted ambient noise. Whether you're recording in a controlled studio or performing in a noisy venue, this microphone offers excellent durability and versatility, particularly for those seeking detailed and dynamic instrument capture.

Not suitable for:

While the Audio-Technica AE2500 is a top choice for many professionals, it's not the best fit for users who prioritize lightweight, portable equipment. Some reviewers pointed out its relatively heavier weight compared to other microphones in its class, which may be uncomfortable for those who need to mount or carry it for extended periods. Additionally, while the mic excels with percussion, those looking for a more versatile option across a wider range of instruments might find it less suited to their needs without adjustments. Users in extremely noisy environments may also need to fine-tune the setup to achieve optimal sound isolation.

Specifications

  • Element Type: This microphone features a dual-element design, combining both dynamic and condenser elements for versatile sound capture.
  • Polar Pattern: The microphone uses a cardioid polar pattern, focusing sound capture from the front and minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear.
  • Frequency Response: The microphone has a wide frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring detailed and natural sound reproduction.
  • Impedance: With an impedance of 150 ohms, this microphone offers compatibility with most audio interfaces and mixing consoles.
  • Sensitivity: The microphone has a sensitivity of 10 dB, providing clear sound capture across various audio sources.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: The microphone boasts an 82 dB signal-to-noise ratio, delivering clean and clear audio even in noisy environments.
  • Connector Type: This microphone uses a 5-pin XLRM connector, ensuring secure and reliable connections to professional audio equipment.
  • Power Source: It is powered through a corded electric connection, providing consistent performance without the need for batteries.
  • Weight: The microphone weighs 2.4 pounds, which is heavier than many similar models but offers increased durability.
  • Dimensions: The microphone measures 9.5 x 5 x 2.9 inches, making it relatively compact for a dual-element microphone.
  • High-Pass Filter: The microphone includes an 80 Hz high-pass filter, which reduces low-frequency noise and rumble from the recording.
  • Pad: It features a 10 dB pad to prevent distortion when recording loud instruments or high-volume sound sources.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for recording percussive instruments, especially drums, in both live sound and studio environments.
  • Design: The microphone is built for durability, making it suitable for both studio use and roadworthy for live performances.
  • Construction: It has a robust build designed to withstand heavy handling in both professional studio settings and live sound setups.
  • Phase-Coherence: The microphone's phase-coherent elements ensure accurate sound reproduction and precise imaging.
  • Sound Quality: The dual-element design helps capture both the aggressive attack and tonal richness of percussive instruments.
  • Durability: Its sturdy construction allows it to handle the rigors of touring and regular live sound use without compromising performance.

FAQ

This microphone combines dynamic and condenser elements in a single unit, providing both aggressive attack and tonal richness, making it perfect for capturing the full range of percussive instruments like drums.

To set up this microphone, position it around the drum kit or percussion instrument, ensuring it is placed within the cardioid pattern's sweet spot to minimize ambient noise. Use the 80 Hz high-pass filter to reduce low-end rumble and the 10 dB pad to prevent distortion from high-volume sources.

While the AE2500 excels at percussive instruments due to its dual-element design, it can also be used for recording vocals or acoustic instruments in certain situations. However, it may not capture vocal nuances as effectively as a dedicated vocal mic.

The cardioid polar pattern focuses on sound coming from the front of the microphone while rejecting sounds from the sides and rear. This makes it ideal for isolating specific sound sources, such as drums, in noisy environments.

Yes, the AE2500 is built for durability, with a robust design suitable for both live performance and studio use. However, it is a bit heavier than some other microphones in its class, which may make it less ideal for extremely lightweight gear requirements.

The combination of a dynamic element for capturing the attack and a condenser element for capturing tonal detail gives this microphone a unique ability to accurately represent both the sharp impact and subtle richness of percussive sounds, making it highly versatile.

The 80 Hz high-pass filter helps remove low-frequency rumble and unwanted noise, while the 10 dB pad reduces signal clipping from loud instruments, ensuring clear and distortion-free sound capture during live performances or high-volume recordings.

At 2.4 pounds, the AE2500 is somewhat heavier than other microphones in its class, which might make it less ideal for musicians or engineers who need lightweight, portable equipment. However, its solid construction offers added durability.

Yes, this microphone is highly suitable for studio drum recordings, thanks to its dual-element design that captures both the attack and the tonal subtleties of drums and other percussion instruments. It's a favorite among audio engineers for its clarity and versatility.

To maintain the AE2500, regularly clean the microphone's grille to prevent dust buildup. Additionally, keep it stored in a padded case to protect it from physical damage, and check the XLR connection to ensure proper signal transfer during use.