Audio-Technica U891RCX manual Features, Description, Installation and Operation

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U891RCx

Cardioid Condenser Boundary Microphone with Local or Remote Switching

unipoint® microphones

Features

Activation switch can be set to any of three operating modes: “press-on/press-off,” “press-to-talk” and “press-to-mute”

External contact closure capability permits control of remote devices from microphone switch

External LED control allows for accurate depiction of the live status of the microphone

PivotPoint® rotating output connector allows cable to exit from either the rear or the bottom of the microphone

UniGuard® RFI-shielding technology offers outstanding rejection of radio frequency interference (RFI)

UniSteep® filter provides a steep low-frequency attenuation to improve sound pickup without affecting voice quality

Available interchangeable elements permit angle of acceptance from 100° to 360°

Heavy die-cast case and non-slip silicone foam bottom pads minimize coupling of surface vibration to the microphone

Description

The U891RCx is a wide-range condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. It is designed for surface-mount applications such as high- quality sound reinforcement, conferencing, distance learning and other demanding sound pickup applications.

The microphone features an activation switch, a programmable external contact closure and an LED indicator. The activation switch can be set to any of three operating modes: “press-on/press-off,” “press-to-talk” and “press-to-mute.” The microphone’s external contact closure capability permits control of remote devices. The contact closure can also be configured to operate independently of the microphone element for applications that require a constant signal from the microphone element. A switch on the bottom of the microphone allows selection of local or remote operation. (In remote operation, the LED and activation switch operate independently of the microphone.) A third position on this switch enables the LED to be controlled from an external source.

The microphone requires 11V to 52V phantom power for operation.

The microphone is equipped with UniGuard® RFI-shielding technology, which offers outstanding rejection of radio frequency interference (RFI).

The microphone’s cardioid polar pattern provides a 120° angle of acceptance (cardioid in hemisphere above mounting surface). Additional interchangeable elements with omnidirectional (360°) and hypercardioid (100°) pickup patterns are available.

The microphone includes a 7.6 m (25') output cable terminating in a special TA5F-type connector at the microphone end. The equipment end is stripped and tinned for connection to an electronic device. The microphone is equipped with Audio-Technica’s unique PivotPoint® rotating output connector.

A switch permits choice of flat response or low-frequency roll-off (via integral 80 Hz high-pass UniSteep® filter) to help control undesired ambient noise.

The microphone’s heavy die-cast case and non-slip silicone foam bottom pads minimize coupling of surface vibration to the microphone. The microphone includes a soft protective pouch and features a low- reflectance black finish.

Installation and Operation

The U891RCx requires 11V to 52V phantom power for operation.

The electronics in the microphone take up to 30 seconds to stabilize after power is applied; during this start-up period, some sonic disturbances may be heard upon switching if the system is “live.”

The microphone should be placed on a flat,

 

 

 

 

 

 

unobstructed mounting surface, with the front

 

 

 

 

 

 

of the microphone facing the sound source.

60°

 

 

 

 

 

The sound source should not be below,

 

 

 

 

 

WORKING

or higher than 60° above, the plane of the

IDEAL

ANGLE

mounting surface.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The microphone features an activation switch, indicator LED and external contact closure ability for controlling remote devices. The microphone offers three choices of switching modes. The SW. FUNCTION switch located on the bottom of the microphone selects the desired mode. TOUCH ON/OFF: Press the on/off switch once to turn the microphone on; press again to turn off. MOM. ON (momentary on): Microphone

is on only while the switch is being pressed (“press to talk”). MOM. OFF (momentary off): Microphone is off only while the switch is being pressed (“press to mute”). The indicator LED and external contact closure follow the operation of the activation switch when in the local mode.

For applications that require the microphone to remain active or always “on”, regardless of the activation switch setting, a “Local/Remote/ LED Remote” control function is provided.

When the CONTROL switch (located on the bottom of the microphone) is in the “Local” position, the activation switch controls the microphone’s audio output, LED status and contact closure internally.

When the CONTROL switch is in the “Remote” position, the microphone’s audio output remains active or “on” all the time. The activation switch controls only the LED and contact closure.

When the CONTROL switch is in the “LED remote” position, it allows remote control of the LED, for accurate depiction of the microphone’s live status. The LED will remain “on” when driven logic high or open, and “off” when driven logic low or connected to ground. The microphone’s audio output remains active or “on” all the time, and the contact closure follows the configuration of the activation switch. *Refer to the table for switch/LED/closure states.

Output is low impedance balanced. The signal appears across the red and yellow wires; audio ground is the shield connection. Output is phased so that positive acoustic pressure produces positive voltage on the yellow wire. The small-diameter black and blue wires are the contact closure. The white wire is the external LED control.

An integral 80 Hz high-pass UniSteep® filter provides easy switching from a flat frequency response to a low-end roll-off. The roll-off position reduces the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.), room reverberation and mechanically coupled vibrations. To engage the UniSteep® filter, slide the switch toward the “bent” line.

The microphone’s PivotPoint® rotating output connector allows the cable to exit from either the rear or the bottom of the microphone without the need for tools or disassembly.

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.

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Contents Installation and Operation FeaturesDescription Switch Settings and Functions Architect’s and Engineer’s SpecificationsSpecifications

U891RCX specifications

The Audio-Technica U891RCX is a professional-grade boundary microphone designed specifically for high-quality audio capture in various environments. This versatile microphone is ideal for use in conference rooms, auditoriums, theaters, and other applications where discreet and unobtrusive microphone placement is essential.

One of the standout features of the U891RCX is its low-profile design. Measuring just 25.4 mm in diameter and only 5.3 mm in height, it is easy to integrate into any setting without being visually intrusive. The microphone incorporates a durable metal construction, ensuring longevity and reliable performance in demanding environments.

The U891RCX utilizes a high-quality condenser capsule, which provides exceptional audio clarity and detail. With a frequency response that ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, this microphone captures a wide range of audio frequencies, making it suitable for both vocal and instrumental applications. Additionally, the U891RCX features a cardioid pickup pattern, which helps to minimize background noise and focus on the sound source directly in front of the microphone, ensuring clean and clear recordings.

An impressive aspect of the U891RCX is its integrated switchable low-frequency roll-off filter. This feature effectively reduces low-end rumble and handling noise, resulting in a cleaner and more professional sound. The microphone also offers a 10 dB pad switch, which allows it to handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it great for capturing loud sound sources.

The U891RCX is equipped with a versatile connector system, making it compatible with various audio systems and setups. Its built-in XLR output facilitates easy connection to mixers, amplifiers, or recording devices.

Additionally, the microphone can be powered by standard phantom power, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment. The U891RCX’s robust design, coupled with its advanced technology, ensures that it performs reliably in any professional audio environment.

In summary, the Audio-Technica U891RCX stands out for its high-quality audio capture, low-profile design, and robust features. With its durable build and cutting-edge technology, this microphone is an excellent choice for professionals seeking reliable and discreet audio solutions. Whether for live performances, recordings, or conference settings, the U891RCX delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility.