
( Brand: Audio-technica ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: U857R ), ( Model: U857RL ), ( Part Type: Condenser Adapter Mount Microphone ), ( Form Factor: Gooseneck ), ( Connectivity: Mini-xlr, Xlr 4 Pin ), ( Features: Built-in Low Cut Filter, Flexible And Easy Mounting, Frequency Selector, High-pass Filter, Mountable, Phantom Powered, With Extension Cable ), ( Transducer Type: Condenser )
The **Audio-Technica U857R** is a premium, ultra-compact cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for professional broadcast, studio, and field recording applications, offering unparalleled clarity and flexibility in demanding environments. This versatile microphone features a **gooseneck adapter-mount design**, allowing it to be securely attached to a wide range of broadcast desks, tripods, or other mounting surfaces with ease, while its **low-profile, streamlined form factor** ensures minimal obstruction and a clean, unobtrusive aesthetic. Engineered with Audio-Technica s signature precision, the U857R incorporates a **high-quality condenser capsule** that delivers exceptional transient response, wide dynamic range, and pristine sound reproduction, making it ideal for capturing speech, interviews, and voice-over work with crystal-clear fidelity. Its **cardioid polar pattern** effectively minimizes background noise and off-axis sound pickup, ensuring that the subject s voice remains the focal point while reducing unwanted ambient interference perfect for live broadcasts, podcasting, or remote recording scenarios where clarity is paramount.
The microphone s **rugged yet lightweight construction** is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, featuring a durable metal body and a **smooth, flexible gooseneck** that allows for precise positioning and ergonomic adjustments without sacrificing stability. The U857R is compatible with Audio-Technica s **U857RL adapter**, which provides a secure, vibration-dampened mount for optimal sound quality and durability, while its **low-profile design** ensures it blends seamlessly into any setup, whether mounted on a broadcast console, affixed to a tripod, or integrated into a portable recording rig. Powered by **48V phantom power**, this condenser microphone operates efficiently across a broad frequency response range, from **20Hz to 20kHz**, ensuring rich, detailed audio reproduction with minimal coloration. Its **self-noise level of just 18dBA** further enhances its performance in quiet environments, making it an excellent choice for applications where sensitivity and clarity are critical.
Ideal for both **broadcast professionals** and **audio engineers**, the Audio-Technica U857R excels in environments where mobility and reliability are essential, such as news gathering, live event coverage, or studio recording sessions. Its **compact yet robust design**, combined with Audio-Technica s reputation for superior craftsmanship, positions it as a top-tier alternative to larger studio microphones, offering the same level of performance in a space-saving, adaptable package. Whether used in a **portable field setup**, a **broadcast booth**, or a **home studio**, the U857R delivers consistent, high-fidelity audio with the flexibility to adapt to virtually any recording scenario. For those seeking a microphone that balances **portability, durability, and exceptional sound quality**, the Audio-Technica U857R with its **gooseneck adapter-mount system** is an indispensable tool for capturing professional-grade audio with ease.
The Audio-Technica U857R is a high-quality cardioid condenser microphone designed for studio and broadcast applications, particularly when paired with its adapter-mount gooseneck stand (the U857RL). Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Audio-Technica U857R with Gooseneck Stand (U857RL)**
1. **Superior Sound Quality**
The U857R is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone known for its detailed, accurate, and natural sound reproduction. It excels in capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and speech with clarity and depth. The cardioid polar pattern helps minimize background noise, making it ideal for controlled environments like studios or podcast setups.
2. **Durable and Rugged Build**
Audio-Technica is renowned for its robust construction. The U857R features a sturdy metal body with a shock mount to reduce handling noise, and the gooseneck stand (U857RL) is designed to be flexible yet durable, allowing for precise positioning without sagging over time.
3. **Versatile Applications**
While it s often used for vocals, the U857R is also well-suited for instruments like pianos, guitars, and strings due to its extended frequency response (20 Hz 20 kHz). Its cardioid pattern makes it useful in broadcast, podcasting, and field recording where isolation is key.
4. **Adapter-Mount Compatibility**
The U857R is designed to mount on Audio-Technica s U857RL gooseneck stand, which provides flexibility in positioning without the need for additional stands or clamps. This is particularly useful in tight spaces or when quick adjustments are required.
5. **Low Self-Noise**
Condenser microphones can introduce unwanted noise, but the U857R has a low self-noise level (7 dBA), ensuring cleaner recordings even in quiet environments.
6. **Consistent Performance**
Audio-Technica microphones are known for their reliability and consistency. The U857R delivers stable performance over time, making it a long-term investment for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
7. **Phantom Power Requirement**
As a condenser mic, it requires phantom power (48V), which is standard in most modern audio interfaces and mixers. This makes it easy to integrate into existing setups.
8. **Great Value for the Price**
Compared to other high-end condenser microphones in its class (e.g., Neumann U87, AKG C414), the U857R offers excellent performance at a more accessible price point. It s a favorite among podcasters, voice-over artists, and home studio users.
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### **Cons of the Audio-Technica U857R with Gooseneck Stand (U857RL)**
1. **Requires Phantom Power**
While this is a standard requirement for condenser mics, it means you cannot use the U857R with battery-powered or non-phantom-powered interfaces (though most modern interfaces do support it).
2. **Not Ideal for Loud Sources**
The U857R is sensitive and can clip if exposed to very loud sounds (e.g., drums, loud amplifiers). It s best suited for mid-level to quiet sources rather than high-SPL environments.
3. **Gooseneck Stand Limitations**
The U857RL gooseneck stand is flexible but not as adjustable as a traditional boom arm or stand. It may not be ideal for very large or heavy setups where a fixed stand would be more stable. Additionally, the gooseneck can be fragile if bent too much.
4. **No Built-in Pop Filter**
The U857R does not come with a pop filter, which is essential for vocal recording to reduce plosives. While this isn t a flaw in the mic itself, it adds an extra accessory to purchase.
5. **Frequency Response Limitations**
While the U857R has a wide frequency response, it may lack the ultra-low-end extension or high-end detail of more premium mics like the Neumann U87. For some applications (e.g., sub-bass-heavy instruments), additional EQ may be needed.
6. **Not Wireless**
The U857R is wired and requires a cable connection to an audio interface or mixer. If wireless capability is a priority, you would need to pair it with a separate wireless transmitter system.
7. **Learning Curve for Optimal Use**
Like many high-quality mics, the U857R benefits from proper placement and room treatment. Beginners may need to experiment with positioning and acoustics to achieve the best results.
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### **Conclusion**
The Audio-Technica U857R with the U857RL gooseneck stand is an outstanding microphone for its intended purposes. It strikes a balance between professional-grade sound quality and practicality, making it a top choice for vocal recording, podcasting, and instrument capture in controlled environments. Its cardioid pattern, low self-noise, and durable build ensure reliable performance, while the gooseneck stand adds convenience for positioning.
However, it is not without limitations. Its sensitivity means it s not suited for loud sources, and the gooseneck stand may not be as versatile as other mounting options. Additionally, it requires phantom power and lacks built-in features like a pop filter or wireless capability.
For users who prioritize clarity, durability, and versatility in a mid-range condenser microphone, the U857R is an excellent investment. It s particularly well-suited for home studios, podcasting, voice-over work, and acoustic instrument recording. If you re working in a noisy environment or need a mic for very loud sources, you might consider pairing it with additional accessories (like a pop filter or shock mount) or exploring alternatives like the Shure SM7B for broadcast or the Rode NT1-A for studio vocals.
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### **Recommendation**
If you are looking for a **high-quality, versatile condenser microphone** for vocals, podcasting, or acoustic instruments in a controlled environment, the **Audio-Technica U857R with the U857RL gooseneck stand** is an **excellent choice**. It delivers professional-grade sound with minimal noise and is well-built for long-term use.
**Buy it if:**- You need a cardioid condenser mic for vocals, speech, or instruments.
- You want a durable, reliable microphone with low self-noise.
- You prefer the flexibility of a gooseneck stand for quick adjustments.
- You re working in a studio or low-noise environment.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You need a microphone for very loud sources (e.g., drums, live performances).
- You require wireless capability or a more portable setup.
- You want ultra-wide frequency response or specialized patterns (e.g., omnidirectional).
- You re on a tight budget and could opt for a dynamic mic like the Shure SM7B for broadcast use.
Overall, the U857R is a **highly recommended microphone** for its quality, versatility, and value, making it a staple in many professional and home studios.
One of its drawbacks is the need to be mounted by thread. The rubber bands have lost some of their elasticity so I added a flanges gasket to add on top the shock mount keep it perfectly upright. But it has worked well and I re-tested right before packaging to make sure its in good condition. This is the also best shock mount for podium or noise handling that I have come across.
Includes the parts listed here: U857RL Cardioid Condenser Adapter Mount Gooseneck Microphone, AT8416 Microphone shock mount, AT8538 Power Module, This microphone and accessories does have minor cosmetic issues as can be seen in pictures, but this is a great sounding my opinion.