Audio-Technica has introduced four new condenser boundary microphones: the ES945O/FM3 omnidirectional, ES947C/FM3cardioid, ES945O/FM5 omnidirectional and ES947C/FM5 cardioid condenser boundary microphone. These mics feature a capacitive-type user switch that enables muting of the microphone – making them especially ideal for conferencing applications. The FM3 models replace the existing ES945/LED and ES947/LED and feature local muting, while the FM5 models represent an entirely new product for Audio-Technica with an advanced feature set offering remote muting and control.

The omnidirectional ES945O/FM3 and cardioid ES947C/FM3 feature a three-pin XLR output connector. Designed for clear, highly intelligible conferencing, recording, monitoring and other demanding sound pickup applications, the ES945O/FM3 and ES947C/FM3 mount unobtrusively in tabletops or panels. They do include a highly visible two-state RGB LED ring (7 selectable colors + OFF) to indicate mute status. The microphones’ polar patterns provide 360° (ES945O/FM3) and 120° (ES947C/FM3) coverage, respectively. A rugged, all-metal case with a two-layer steel mesh grille protects the microphone element, while A-T’s proprietary UniGuard RFI-shielding technology provides outstanding rejection of radio frequency interference (RFI). Both mics are equipped with a self-contained power module, eliminating the need for an external one. They come with a pair of rubber isolators for mechanical isolation from the mounting surface.

The omnidirectional ES945O/FM5 and cardioid ES947C/FM5 have a similar feature set to the “FM3” models, but they offer remote muting, control, and a five-pin XLR output connector. Additionally, the “FM5” models’ switch can be configured for remote muting and/or external contact closure. It can also be set up to trigger an external device, such as a camera or the room’s lighting.