Topic: Advice on Using AT831 Microphones

[Pieteker]

Hi,

I have the opportunity to purchase a pair of AT831 microphones at a good price. I'm interested in using them as backup mics with my small Sony MD-N505, which only has a LINE-IN port.

The seller mentioned that these microphones require phantom power, but I've heard of tapers who successfully connected the mini-XLR output to a mini-jack adapter and then plugged it directly into the recorder via the MIC-IN/LINE-IN port.

I would greatly appreciate any advice or guidance on this setup.

Regards,

Pieter

[Twenty8]

You mean the Sony MZ-N505?

The AT831's need a power supply.  I just looked at the manual for your Sony.  I don't see a thing about PIP and there is no MIC IN.  I generally suggest a battery box for AT831 and 853 setups.  Seems from a quick look like you will need one.  However, someone might have some experience with this device and can offer more info.

[Pieteker]

OKAY, that makes sense.

Could I then connect the mics with an XLR to MINI-JACK cable to (for example) a Soundman A3 Adaptor or SP-SPSB-10 and then plug it into the LINE-IN of the Minidisc recorder?

The setup would look like this: AT831 > Soundman A3 Adaptor > MZ-N505

P.S. If I were to buy two AT831's, could I then connect them using a Stereo Breakout cable to the battery box and into the recorder?

Regards,

Pieter

[Twenty8]

Could I then connect the mics with an XLR to MINI-JACK cable to (for example) a Soundman A3 Adaptor or SP-SPSB-10 and then plug it into the LINE-IN of the Minidisc recorder?

If I were to buy two AT831's, could I then connect them using a Stereo Breakout cable to the battery box and into the recorder?

First question: Yes, exactly.
Second question: Yes, technically, but... you will have to pan one channel left and one channel right in post.  Both will record a mono center and it will be up to you to pan L and R.

Those of us using AT831 generally have modified pairs that run to a single 3.5mm male plug.  What you are suggesting *should* work, but I do not have experience.  Sounds exactly like any other setup like this though.  For example... Line Audio CM4s > xlr cables > Edirol UA-5 > RCA cables > 3.5 cable > Sony M10.

[Pieteker]

Thanks for the advice!