AT875 or AT897?

[Bruce Watson]

I've been using an AT4053b hypercardiod for interior dialog with good success. Now I've got need for a shotgun for exterior dialog and for some interior work -- mostly things like interviews on tradeshow floors and interviews in hotel ballrooms (high ceilings, big rooms, but usually fairly noisy). All of this on booms, either active (boom-op) or passive (boom holder on C-stand). And it has to cut will with footage that uses the AT4053b.

To that end, I hear good things about both the AT875 (7" short shotgun) and the AT897 (11" shotgun). Sound samples I've heard I've had difficulty telling them apart. I suspect either would work for this duty. How are they different in real-world use?

Other than those two mics, what other mic(s) should I be considering for less than $210 USD?

 

[ggrantly]

I happen to have both and yes they actually sound very similar. The 875 hits above its weight but the great thing about it is the diminutive size. It is just tiny and less directional and more forgiving because of it. You must have phantom for this mic. I think it has a slightly hotter signal than the 897 but that is just a gut call. The 897 is somewhat more directional and IMHO sounds just a bit better, but not much and that is probably more about taste than anything. The 897 can self power via internal battery which opens a few opportunities for wireless and non-phantom recording. I have used it with a butt-plug transmitter for field interviews which was very handy if you are on the hoof. Both are in the entry level category for shotguns, though I went out of my way to get a 875 just for size considerations for a backpack video kit. The thing seems hardly larger than a felt tip marker.

Comparing the 897 to the similar priced Rode NTG-2, there have been off and on complaints about how these two mics work out with the anemic preamps on cheapo recorders. In the case of the 897, I haven't had too much trouble using it with a DR100 given good mic placement, but don't expect too much. Infact if I wouldn't go down that path if it was my only recording option. The NTG2 might be a bit more popular at this point, but I think that is more apples and oranges and the output of the NTG2 has been maligned here for years. The point here is how or what you record to. If you are recording dialogue to a cam with phantom, you'll be fine. If you are using a dr100 or Zoom, don't have high expectations. If you use a mixer, no problems at all as long as your mixer can hack it.

Which would I choose? Well the reality is I moved up to an NTG3 and it was worth every nickel. Read that again, every nickel. Given the budget you have and choice between the two, I suppose the 897 is the better shotgun, not because of the sound is better per se, but because of better isolation and maybe the battery option if you need it. It acts more like a true shotgun. But the little 875 has earned my respect and always surprises. Also, if you have a BBG for your 4053, you could probably get away with using it on the 875, so you might save a few bucks on wind protection by only needing one wind system. Otherwise, for economy and compact, I use a WS-6 slippy-on for the 875. The 897 can use a full blimp or a WS-7. Both mics are well made and seem durable. At a similar price, it's more about the features than the sound.

Grant

 

[ggrantly]

Check that, the 875 is too long for a BBG. My bad.

And you will need a pretty short suspension.

Grant