Audio-Technica is excited to introduce the new ATH-M50xSTS and ATHM50xSTS-USB streaming headsets. These models are the world’s first headsets specifically developed to address the needs of live-streaming content creators. The all-new streaming headsets were launched and displayed along with Audio-Technica’s complete range of consumer products at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, Central Hall Booth 18266 (January 5-8, 2023). 

The headsets are equipped with the same 45mm large-aperture drivers that grace the M50x headphones — the monitoring choice of top engineers and audio pros — to provide exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range, with deep, accurate bass response. The streaming headsets, come with two sets of distinct earpads: M50x earpads that stress audio quality and sound isolation; and mesh and leatherette earpads that emphasise breathability and comfort.

Yet, it’s the microphone design that truly sets these streaming headsets apart. Both models use a cardioid condenser capsule adopted from our popular 20 Series microphone designs on a flexible boom arm, allowing for ideal positioning even as you move your head. The result is rich, studio quality vocal presence without background noise and output at a consistent level. The mic can be muted quickly and efficiently simply by flipping the boom arm into the up position.

The ATH-M50xSTS is uses a 2m permanently attached cable with 3.5mm headphone input (plus 6.3 mm adapter) and XLR microphone output. The ATH-M50xSTS-USB uses a 2m permanently attached cable with USB-A connection (and USB-A to USB-C adapter) for plug-and-play connectivity to PCs and Macs.

In addition, the ATH-M50xSTS-USB includes an A/D converter with a sampling rate up to 24-bit/96 kHz and sidetone circuitry that lets you hear your voice in the headset (with volume controlled by a dial on the earcup) for a more natural, conversational feel.

DPA Microphones highlights its latest microphone solutions, designed to meet the growing live production needs of the broadcast and AV markets. As the rapid adoption of live streaming continues to grow in broadcast applications, speech intelligibility remains at the forefront of all productions. In recognition of the changes in the media landscape, DPA recently released important broadcast mic solutions, the 4466 CORE Omnidirectional and 4488 CORE Directional Headset Microphones, and the 4097 Micro Shotgun Microphone and Interview Kit.

“The pandemic has shown us the true importance of being quickly and easily adaptable to a rapidly changing media landscape,” says Anne Berggrein, vice president, marketing, DPA Microphones A/S. “These new offerings are a direct result of the innovation and forward-thinking response to the industry, and we are excited to call attention to the benefits they provide to the broadcast market.”

Based on the design of the 6066 Subminiature Headsets, the new 4466 CORE Omnidirectional and 4488 CORE Directional Headset Microphones feature the brand’s popular 5mm round microphone capsule. These latest offerings provide the security, durability and flexibility necessary for use in broadcast, worship, theatre and corporate conferencing. With a one-size-fits-all design and adjustable boom height and length, the 4466 and 4488 headsets accommodate all head shapes and sizes. A unique, three-point gripping system (above, below and behind the ear) ensures a greater level of security, while the flexible ear hooks provide continued comfort during extended use.

In addition, the new headsets share the same interchangeable cable and boom options as the 6066 Subminiature Headsets. This includes the 90-degree cable management guide at the neck. The headset frame, boom and capsule have a non-reflective surface for unobtrusiveness and ease-of-use for camera crews. With a high-quality, professional look, the 4466 and 4488 are available in the company’s standard black and beige options, as well as the recently added brown version.

Featuring the same sonic qualities as the brand’s supercardioid Choir Microphone, the 4097 CORE Micro Shotgun Microphone has been optimised to pick up speech from a distance. Initially designed for plant miking applications, it is ideal for miking in small spaces because of its small footprint and clear audio pickup. Additionally, when selected as part of the company’s new 4097 CORE Interview Kit, which includes a lightweight boom and windjammer, the mic allows journalists to conduct interviews from up to two meters (6.5 feet) away, making it the perfect tool for single-reporter interview applications in today’s socially distanced world.

Featuring a lightweight telescopic boom pole, to further ensure social distance protocols, and a Rycote windjammer, to provide ideal conditions for outdoor productions, the kit also includes DPA’s new 4099 Cold Shoe Mount, a DPA MicroDot cable and a transmitter plate. This plug-and-play solution allows single-operator crews to quickly, easily and safely capture important news and information.

The sonic qualities of the 4097 CORE Micro Shotgun are particularly beneficial for placing mics in inconspicuous locations as it enables location sound experts to capture sound from anywhere on set. Used in combination with DPA boom mics and lavaliers, the 4097 Micro Shotgun becomes the final piece of a complete microphone package to meet the needs of any TV or film production.

When used in conjunction with DPA’s lightweight MMA-A Digital Audio Interface, the 4097 CORE Micro Shotgun becomes a complete remote recording package. The interface is a high-quality, two-channel microphone preamp and A/D converter offering mono, dual and stereo capabilities.

Terminating in a MicroDot connection, the 4097 CORE Micro Shotgun can also attach directly to a transmitter and can be used with the company’s 4099 series mounts, clamps and clips, for easy mounting on any surface. Most recently, DPA released the MS4099 Mic Stand Mount, a sturdy and flexible solution for mounting the 4097 onto any mic stand. Borrowed from the design of other DPA mounting options, the barrel of the MS4099 mic holder makes it quick and easy to attach or remove the microphone. In addition, the mount can be turned for vertical or horizontal use, depending on application.