Audio-Technica ES915H21 / ES915H24 Engineered Sound Hypercardioid Condenser Gooseneck Microphone

Product Overview

The ES915H is a wide-range miniature condenser microphone featuring a hypercardioid polar pattern. It is engineered for high-quality sound reinforcement, professional recording, television, and other demanding audio pickup applications. Its small-diameter double gooseneck design allows for flexible and stable positioning, and an included snap-on foam windscreen effectively reduces wind noise and 'popping' sounds.

The ES915H incorporates UniGuard® RFI-shielding technology for superior rejection of radio frequency interference. It is also RoHS compliant, meaning it is free from hazardous substances specified in the EU directive.

The microphone's hypercardioid polar pattern offers a 100° angle of acceptance. Optional interchangeable elements are available for omnidirectional (360°), cardioid (120°), and MicroLine® (90°) pickup patterns.

Power is supplied by an external 11V to 52V DC phantom power supply. A recessed switch on the power module allows selection between a flat frequency response or a low-frequency roll-off, utilizing an integral 80 Hz high-pass UniSteep® filter to minimize unwanted ambient noise.

The microphone features a rugged housing with a low-reflectance black finish. It is equipped with an XLRM-type connector at its base, enabling direct connection to an XLRF-type panel jack or microphone cable.

Optional accessories include the AT8474 low-profile isolation mount or the AT8473 stand clamp, which allow attachment to standard 5/8"-27 or 3/8"-16 threaded mic stands or mounting flanges.

The ES915H21 model measures 533.4mm from the mounting surface, and a longer 609.6mm version is available as the ES915H24 model.

Specifications

Diagrams and Graphs

Polar Pattern: The document includes a polar pattern diagram illustrating the hypercardioid pickup angle. It shows sensitivity levels at different angles, with the primary lobe centered at 0 degrees and significant attenuation at the rear (180 degrees).

Frequency Response: Two frequency response curves are presented. One shows a 'Flat' response across the audible spectrum (80 Hz to 20 kHz). The second curve, labeled 'Roll-off', demonstrates the effect of the 80 Hz high-pass filter, showing a gradual decrease in sensitivity below 80 Hz.

Usage and Care

The output is a low-impedance balanced signal, appearing across Pins 2 and 3 of the XLR connector, with Pin 1 serving as the ground (shield). Positive acoustic pressure produces a positive voltage at Pin 2.

The integral 80 Hz high-pass UniSteep® filter can be engaged using a small pointed instrument to slide the switch towards the 'bent' line. This filter helps reduce low-frequency ambient noise (e.g., traffic, HVAC systems), room reverberation, and mechanically coupled vibrations.

Important Care Instructions: Avoid exposing the microphone to direct sunlight or environments with temperatures exceeding 43°C (109°F) for extended periods. High humidity should also be avoided.

Optional Accessories

The following accessories are available for the ES915H series:

• AT8474 universal isolation mount
• AT8473 quick-mount stand adapter
• AT8506 four-channel 48V phantom power supply (AC powered)
• AT8668 quick-mount plug-in microphone desk stand
• AT8801/EU single-channel 48V phantom power supply (AC powered)