Audio-Technica U853RO Cardioid Condenser Hanging Microphone
The Audio-Technica U853RO is a phantom-powered hanging microphone with omnidirectional-capable elements, UniSteep low-frequency filtering, and wall-ceiling power module integration. Perfect for theater productions, choir pickups, and suspension applications.Overview
The Audio-Technica U853RO is a versatile hanging condenser microphone optimised for suspension in theatrical and musical environments. Its omnidirectional element capability combined with 80 Hz low-frequency filtering delivers clean, isolated audio capture from overhead mounting positions. The included wall-ceiling power module permits permanent installation in standard electrical boxes.
Key Features
- Interchangeable elements enable omnidirectional and cardioid pattern selection
- Wall-ceiling plate power module for fixed installation
- 80 Hz UniSteep filter reduces low-frequency ambient noise and rumble
- Superior off-axis rejection with low handling noise
- UniGuard RFI-shielding for radio frequency interference immunity
- Lightweight, low-profile design suitable for discreet overhead mounting
- Accepts optional cardioid, hypercardioid, and UniLine elements (sold separately)
Specifications
- Type: Hanging Condenser Microphone
- Polar Patterns: Interchangeable (Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, UniLine)
- Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 20 kHz
- Power: Phantom-Powered
- Connectivity: XLR-3-pin
- Low-Cut Filter: 80 Hz UniSteep
- Weight: 0.14 kg
- Dimensions: 34 mm long, 12.2 mm diameter
- Color: Black
Why Buy from Procure.ae
Procure.ae serves institutional buyers including theaters, cultural venues, and broadcast facilities across the UAE and GCC. Request a quote for installation packages and volume pricing on interchangeable elements.
FAQ
What is the advantage of omnidirectional elements in a hanging microphone?
Omnidirectional elements capture sound equally from all directions, ideal for choir sections where performers are spread across multiple areas beneath the microphone.
How is phantom power supplied to this microphone?
The included wall-ceiling power module connects to your mixing console or audio interface and supplies 48V phantom power through the XLR cable.
Description
Overview
The Audio-Technica U853RO is a versatile hanging condenser microphone optimised for suspension in theatrical and musical environments. Its omnidirectional element capability combined with 80 Hz low-frequency filtering delivers clean, isolated audio capture from overhead mounting positions. The included wall-ceiling power module permits permanent installation in standard electrical boxes.
Key Features
- Interchangeable elements enable omnidirectional and cardioid pattern selection
- Wall-ceiling plate power module for fixed installation
- 80 Hz UniSteep filter reduces low-frequency ambient noise and rumble
- Superior off-axis rejection with low handling noise
- UniGuard RFI-shielding for radio frequency interference immunity
- Lightweight, low-profile design suitable for discreet overhead mounting
- Accepts optional cardioid, hypercardioid, and UniLine elements (sold separately)
Specifications
- Type: Hanging Condenser Microphone
- Polar Patterns: Interchangeable (Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Hypercardioid, UniLine)
- Frequency Response: 30 Hz to 20 kHz
- Power: Phantom-Powered
- Connectivity: XLR-3-pin
- Low-Cut Filter: 80 Hz UniSteep
- Weight: 0.14 kg
- Dimensions: 34 mm long, 12.2 mm diameter
- Color: Black
Why Buy from Procure.ae
Procure.ae serves institutional buyers including theaters, cultural venues, and broadcast facilities across the UAE and GCC. Request a quote for installation packages and volume pricing on interchangeable elements.
FAQ
What is the advantage of omnidirectional elements in a hanging microphone?
Omnidirectional elements capture sound equally from all directions, ideal for choir sections where performers are spread across multiple areas beneath the microphone.
How is phantom power supplied to this microphone?
The included wall-ceiling power module connects to your mixing console or audio interface and supplies 48V phantom power through the XLR cable.
Specifications
Brand
Audio Technica
Product Type
Hanging Microphone
Storefront L1
Audio Video
Storefront L2
microphones
Storefront L3
Wired Mics
Weight (Spec)
0.14
Color (Spec)
Black
Country of Origin
United Arab Emirates
Dimensions
1.34" (34.0 mm) long, 0.48" (12.2 mm) diameter
Frequency Range (-10 dB)
30 - 20,000 Hz
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performance settings benefit most from hanging microphones?
Hanging microphones are ideal for choirs, orchestras, and theater productions where the sound source is distributed across a wide area. Suspending the microphone overhead allows even, balanced pickup of the entire ensemble without obstructing the stage.
How does suspending a microphone above performers compare to placing it in front?
Hanging microphones capture a more balanced, natural blend of the entire ensemble by being equidistant from all performers. This overhead placement reduces proximity effect and captures the full acoustic of a choir or orchestra better than front-facing microphones.
What does the UniSteep low-frequency filter do in hanging microphones?
The UniSteep low-frequency filter (typically 80 Hz) reduces stage rumble, vibration from footsteps, and low-frequency noise from the building. This keeps the captured vocals or instruments clean and articulate without requiring aggressive EQ adjustments during mixing.
Can hanging microphones be used for solo vocalist pickup, or are they only for ensembles?
While hanging microphones excel at capturing ensembles, they can also be positioned over a solo performer for a more natural, room-capturing sound. For close-miking solo vocals, a handheld or headworn microphone typically provides better control.
What is the difference between cardioid and omnidirectional hanging microphone elements?
Cardioid hanging microphones (like the U853R) provide directional rejection of unwanted sound from above and sides, useful for isolating the ensemble from ceiling noise. Omnidirectional options (U853RO) pick up equally in all directions, capturing more room ambience.
Is the white U853RW finish only aesthetic, or does it affect performance?
The white finish on the U853RW is purely cosmetic and chosen for aesthetic discretion in venues where a visible black microphone would be distracting. Audio performance is identical to the standard black U853R model.
What is the typical delivery timeframe for hanging microphones to the UAE?
Procure.ae supplies hanging microphones across the UAE and GCC on a request-a-quote basis. Contact the team to confirm current lead times and availability for your performance or recording date.
Does Procure.ae assist with suspension and rigging for hanging microphone installation?
The Procure.ae team can advise on suspension and integration requirements for hanging microphone systems. Please reach out to discuss what installation support and guidance are available for your venue or production.
What is the difference between the U853R and U853RU hanging microphones?
The U853R features interchangeable cardioid elements, while the U853RU uses Audio-Technica's proprietary UniLine cardioid technology for a line-cardioid polar pattern. UniLine offers more directional control and isolation in complex acoustic environments.
Do hanging microphones require phantom power to operate?
Yes, hanging microphones like the U853R and U853RU are phantom-powered condensers. Power is supplied via the XLR cable and can come from your mixing console, audio interface, or a wall-ceiling power module (often included).
What does interchangeable element design mean for a hanging microphone?
Interchangeable elements (available on models like the U853R) allow you to replace or upgrade the microphone's capsule to adjust the polar pattern or frequency response. This extends the microphone's lifespan and flexibility without replacing the entire unit.
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