Audio-Technica AE5100 – Large-diaphragm cardioid electret microphone for acoustic instruments
The Audio-Technica AE5100 is a large-diaphragm cardioid electret condenser microphone designed to capture acoustic instruments with outstanding precision and a naturally detailed sound. Its wide capsule—typically found in studio condensers—delivers a rich, balanced and transparent sonic character.
Versatile, discreet and highly reliable, the AE5100 excels on acoustic guitars, strings, overheads, percussion as well as vocal ensembles. Its open-head grille structure allows the microphone to be placed close to the source while preserving exceptional clarity.
Built for stage use and heavy touring, it features an 80 Hz high-pass filter and a 10 dB pad, making it perfectly suited for high-SPL acoustic instruments. Like all Artist Elite models, it is designed and manufactured in Japan and comes with an extended 15-year manufacturer warranty.
Technical specifications:
- Type: Electret condenser microphone
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Frequency response: 20 – 20,000 Hz
- High-pass filter: 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave
- Sensitivity: –36 dB (15.8 mV) re 1V/Pa
- Maximum SPL: 148 dB SPL (1% THD); 158 dB SPL with –10 dB pad
- Dynamic range: 137 dB (1 kHz at max SPL)
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 83 dB
- Phantom power: 11–52 V DC, 3.2 mA
- Weight: 143 g
- Dimensions: Length 148.5 mm; max diameter 26 mm
- Connector: Integral 3-pin XLRM
- Included accessories: AT8471 isolation clamp, 5/8”-27 → 3/8”-16 thread adapter, AT8136 foam windscreen, soft protective pouch
- Applications: Acoustic guitars, strings, overheads, percussion, choirs, acoustic ensembles
- Manufacturer warranty: 15 years
Key points:
- Large-diaphragm capsule: precise, natural and highly detailed response.
- Open grille design: superior transparency and close-positioning capability.
- Outstanding for acoustic instruments: guitars, strings, percussion, overheads and choirs.
- High-pass filter + pad: maximum versatility for stage and studio use.
- Rugged construction: built for long-term touring reliability.
- Cardioid pattern: excellent isolation and rear rejection.
- AT8471 isolation clamp included: reduces mechanical noise and ensures stable mounting.
- Made in Japan: exceptional build quality and durability.
