Audio-Technica BP4025 Review
X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
- X/Y Stereo Capsule
- Accurate Stereo Imaging
- 11-52VDC Phantom Powered
- Dual XLR Output
- -10dB Pad Switch
- Flat and Low Frequency Roll-Off
- Coincident Capsule Mount
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 25 Reviews
Great Ambient Microphone
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by John on B&H Photo Video
I do a lot of ambient recording using a Sound Devices 702 recorder and have tried various microphone setups. I generally record very quiet settings with a large dynamic range of sound. I was first drawn to this microphone by the reviews I found online. Honestly, they sounded too good to be true for a stereo microphone at this price point. I had tried several other alternatives, some didn't work well at all. My Rode NT-4 stereo was too noisy for a very quiet setting and had a very disappointing low end representation. The NT-1A matched pair had a booming low end with a high frequency artifact noticed by other nature recordists that I could not EQ out of the sound sample. The NT-1A pair was very subject to humidity problems when using them outside. Neither of those setups was sufficient to record very quiet settings. My Sennheiser MK-30/40 mid side pair gave me excellent quality with very low self noise and is the standard by which I judge other microphone setups. I became interested in this particular microphone because I wanted something with a better low end representation with low self noise. Once I read the reviews on this microphone, I wanted to give it a try. In theory, it would give me a little more presence in the lower frequencies because of the larger capsules which inherently have less self noise than smaller diaphragm microphones. After a several of hours of recording sound samples in very quiet settings, I have to say I am shocked at the quality. As recorded through the Sound Devices 702, the sound samples are free of self-noise. I have detected no artifacts that are generally easy to pick up when recording in very quiet environments. I can hear the faint buzzing of insects and far distant birds against a dead quiet background. The low end sounds are very, very good. The stereo field is also excellent, although it is not quite as defined and spacious as the decoded Sennheiser MK-30/40 mid-side pair. However, the difference is barely detectable. Those subtleties will always exist for different microphone setups. So far, I have to say I love this microphone, especially at this price point. I consider this one a real find! Another pleasant surprise is how easy it was to suppress wind noise. This microphone is very compact and easily fits inside of a small blimp. I have the Rode blimp with a custom suspension for my Sennheiser mid-side pair. I can easily just change O-rings and use the stock Rode clip for this microphone and viola, a stereo mic in a blimp. I also tried a dead kitten right on the top of the microphone and dealt with 8-10 mph winds with no wind noise other than the ambient sound of the breeze. Put the BP4025 on a simple handle with a dead kitten on the end and you have a very compact stereo setup for field recording in low to moderate wind. If you are a beginner just getting into ambient field recording, this should be your first choice of a microphone. With low self-noise, which is usually a big problem, and the relatively low price point compared to other microphones, you can't go wrong. You won't get a better microphone for the money, and will do much better than microphones costing much more. You also won't outgrow it. For advanced amateurs, this microphone makes for a very portable and high quality setup if paired with a good recorder like the SD-702. You will find it a welcome addition to your arsenal and because it is very easy to set up and use. It will get used often. I often record in remote locations, and have already packed this microphone many miles. The compact and simple setup has been very nice. I have not extensively tested this microphone in very humid conditions, which have no affect the Sennheiser pair. So that remains to be seen. But so far, this is a welcome addition to the gear that will get a lot of use. ... More
BO4025 Grabs Great Ambi
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Ty Ford on B&H Photo Video
You don't think about it much, but good stereo ambi - ambient sound - can add a lot to the feeling of a video sound track. But how do you capture it? There are many stereo mics and the cost range varies significantly; from several hundred to several thousand dollars. The Audio Technica BP4025 is a relative newcomer. B&H lists it for $.It's a professional X/Y patterned mic and requires phantom power. It has a five-pin XLR output connector, 10 dB pad and low frequency roll-off. The BP4025 comes with a five-pin to dual three-pin XLR Y-cable that plugs into any professional mic input. A simple foam pop filter is included, but for serious outdoor work, you'll need something more wind resistant. The significant difference between the BP4025 and other stereo mics is that the BP4025 has relatively large diaphragms; about an inch in diameter. These larger diaphragms grab sound with less selfnoise than mics with smaller diaphragms. Selfnoise exhibits as high frequency hiss and can really spoil the sound. My first test with the BP4025 was a simple walk around the backyard. I plugged the BP4025 into my Sound Devices 744T audio recorder grabbed my headphones and headed out. It was a great Spring day with birds tweeting everywhere. Using the headphones to help me find a good spot. I held the mic in my hand and hit RECORD. The BP4025 is so quiet that the selfnoise was well below the noise floor of my quiet suburban neighborhood. I heard absolutely no hiss. As I stood listening to nature in stereo, I spotted one of my neighbors walking her dog. She was about 150 feet away from me. As I watched her approach, I head a sharp clack.She's used to seeing me with audio gear hanging off me and as she got closer, she stopped to see what I was up to...THIS TIME. When she got within comfortable conversation range I noticed she was chewing gum. I asked her if she had clacked her gum as she was walking. Yup. That was the clack I had heard from about 150 feet away. The recording proved very useful a few months later when I was posting Hot Flash, a double award-winning indie short I produced last year. There was a backyard scene in which Diana Sowle, wearing an electric dog collar, walks aimlessly across the lawn, only to be stopped by an invisible electric pet fence. The boom mic was obviously not in stereo, nor did it hear much ambience. It was not a nice Spring morning and there were no birds chirping. In fact, there was a rather noisy air conditioner across the street.The stereo ambi track fit perfectly. I chose a particular section so the scene opens with a particularly nice bird tweet. No one has ever questioned me about the sound. No one knows, until now, that the ambi was from a different neighborhood on a different day. You can hear for yourself at the HotFlashMovie web site. I've always felt the most important quality of great sound is that is doesn't draw attention to itself. Since then I have continued to record stereo ambi and have created a small but growing archive of great sounding stereo ambi tracks; all done with the AudioTechnica BP4025. ... More
Exceptional Field Recording Mic
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Kevin W on B&H Photo Video
Purchased this mic based on a number of exceptional examples from other respected field recordists I have heard using this mic. I have been looking for that perfect-almost mic for professional field recording. I need a mic that's sensitive, selective and able to catch real-world sound with little color - but as much nuance as possible. Ideally, it would also be a stereo mic to save one equipment costs and weight. The impossible dream I suppose. From my testing so far, this mic hits very nicely on all points of interest and concerns. In testing, it simply performed flawlessly as it ticked off each of my concerns with little effort. In the studio, the sounds came to life nicely. We are all truly impressed and believe any discerning set of ears will be as well. I personally don't believe you can go wrong with this mic for field recording. I have worked with waaaay too many pro mics in my life. This mic is likely the best to date for field recording. ... More
Very nice response, low noise
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by John R. on B&H Photo Video
I use this for ambient recordings - I'm usually recording as part of gathering material for video, and so I have enough gear without a multiple-mic stereo setup. This offers a pleasing stereo image, low noise for getting quieter ambient sounds, and nice response for, say, rain drops hitting bricks with thunder rumbling in the background. It doesn't have a drop-out in the center, so a car passing doesn't sound weird. Perfectly natural stereo effect. Fits in a Rycote Baby Ball Gag - I should buy a real blimp, but that seems like one more big thing to pack, and I've been happy with the BBG so far. I'm quite happy with this mic - good balance between quality and portability/ease of use. I have stuff I've bought in the past that I end up not using because it's a pain, but this one is already working its way into my flow. ... More
Sensitive, low noise, extended low frequency response
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Alberto T on B&H Photo Video
It took me a while to post this review because I did not have any sound recorder to test with. I did ensure that it did work by hooking it up to a friend's mixer, but it wasn't until we rented a Zoom F8 at work that I was able to hear what the BP4025 could really do. In testing at Caumsett State Historic Park, which is fairly quiet before 6am, I was able to pick up very clear bird songs, with a nice stereo image. And VERY low noise. I also realized I would have to go much further away from civilization in order to get quieter recordings. I could hear the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) trains rumble from miles away, as well as a park ranger starting up his pickup truck from almost a half mile away, and completely out of sight. Suffice to say, this mic can capture low frequencies exceedingly well with its large capsules. I have wanted this mic since 2011, and it met all my expectations. Now to save some more to get a nice field recorder to go with the BP4025 :-) ... More
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Outstanding
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by lilfurbal on B&H Photo Video
I upgraded to this microphone from the Rode Stereo VidMic (3.5mm microphone adapter). With this being my first XLR Mic I was excited to use it based on the other reviews I have read, and the sound samples I listened to. This microphone is amazing. Audio recorded sounds very rich and clear. Low end frequencies are recorded accurately without any muddy sound. It's a very sensitive mic and can pick up all sorts of audio in the area. And there is indeed extremely low self noise, I can't even hear it with headphones on. It's perfectly silent with just clean audio. The included cable is unreasonably long for my purposes though, I just wanted to mount it on a camcorder. I bought a 1.5 foot cable to solve that problem, and also got a fuzzy wind-tech wiffmuff to help with using it outdoors. Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase. The other mic I was heavily considering was the Rode NT-4 but that seemed to be nearly double the weight. I feel I made the best choice. ... More
Excellent for environmental recording
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by StormWatcher on B&H Photo Video
I record nature sounds, particularly close lightning strikes. I use this on an EX-1 with a Rycote windjammer. I have tried so many microphones and many of them cannot handle the db thunder of a close lightning strike, the mics tend to collapse causing a crackle. The low frequency, low wind noise, and almost perfect stereo imaging make the AT BP4025 my favorite mic. I will always love my Senn. 416's Other mics I have used: Sennheiser 416/ME80/ME40 (X-Y config) AudioTechnica 835ST (very good shotgun) Rode NT5's (Least favorite) The only sacrifice is directional pick-up, but that is what the AT 835ST is for. The rolloff and -10db switch is located on the head, meaning you have to remove the windscreen to change them. ... More
I can't go back to previous models!!
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Sam on B&H Photo Video
I have experiences of stereo mics, AKG, SONY, RODE, Audio Technica for recording of classic music. Recently I had a chance to bring my PB4025 and NT-4 to concert hall for my friends of string quartet. I could compare the two mics under the exact same condition. My PB4025 could capture ambient very naturally with rich reverb. It has wide sound stage and flat frequency from low to high. Especially low frequency of the cello was very beautiful that NT-4 could not capture much. The sound of violin and viola were also natural. The high did not become shiny too much. There is fidelity of sound.My NT-4 is also wonderful. It has amazing characteristic sound image with fresh instrument sound and musicality. The sound stage is also very clear as like players can be seen. The low became a little weak at the off micing comparing with PB4025. It was not a problem at all. At the result, I mixed the two sounds, PB4025 and NT-4 to pick up advantages. It worked well in my purpose of the recording. There is different sound characters between. So, I would recommend to buy the both mics if possible. ... ... More
BP4025 good for nat sound
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Ty Ford on B&H Photo Video
I had a client who needed some nice exterior stereo nat sound. The day we shot there was too much wind and the generator was making too much noise. A few days later, I used the BP4025 and a Sound Devices 744T to record some tracks. The BP4025 has large diaphragms, so the selfnoise is very low. Even low enough for recording studio work. (I checked). The mic was sensitive enough to hear my neighbor popping her chewing gum as she walked her dog about 100 feet away. The only problem I encountered was that the foam pop filter was not good enough to stop even mild blasts. You'll need something more elaborate for that. The detachable 5-pin XLR to two 3-pin XLR cable is a little long for running around outside, but fine for studio work. Ty Ford ... More
BP4025 X/Y Stereo mic on PD150 camera
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by DVS video on B&H Photo Video
Audio Technic engineers help me to select this mic for the gig i was going to do recording very loud band in a club when the sound guy wouldn't let you hook to sound board. With the adjustments on mic and camera i was able to record in a room with 150db without distorion once you fine your sweet spot on your mic levels. This was referd by Audio Technic engineer department the #1 pick of mics for what i was doing, #2 was AT8022 but i went with the BP4025 and .... Also excellent for recording drum tracks all nature sound and crisp clear. ... More
A great stereo mic for Sound FX recordin
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by MongrelDawg on B&H Photo Video
I use this mic for recording stereo sound fx and ambiences in the field with my Sound Devices 702 digital recorder. It is extremely quiet and sensitive and does not have any undesirable coloration to it, plus it has a nice wide stereo image. What really makes it great is that it fits into the same shock mount clips and blimp as I use for my Rode NTG3 shotgun mic so it is very convenient to switch back and forth. I use this mic exclusively for sound fx recording, so I can't say how well it works for music, but for what I do it is an excellent mic. ... More
Fantastic Microphone
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Tom Sheridan on Guitar Center
I use it as a video microphone on my Canon XF-100. I shoot sports mostly and this microphone's stereo field and clarity make it feel like you're there. Did some nature recording as an experiment and again, phenomenal results with the audio. Also does well in recording music. The only thing I wish it had was a shorter XLR cable. It has a 5 pin connection in the back to support stereo outputs. The cable that comes with it is 5 feet long, for camera use, you've got a wad of cable to deal with. That's however a very small problem. The wide, crisp stereo this microphone provides is nothing short of stunning. Highly recommend! ... More
Use on Camcorder
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Randy Johnson on B&H Photo Video
I use this microphone in filming sporting events with my Canon XF100. The signal is significantly louder than the on board mic on the XF100 so at loud events like sports arenas you may want to attenuate the signal. The stock cable that comes with this mic is 5 feet long. A ball of cable for on camera use. That inconvenience aside, the quality of the sound superb! Highly impressed!
Fantastic mic!
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Mikhail K. on B&H Photo Video
Love everything about it - sound quality, no existent self noise, ergonomics, ability to fit inside Rode blimp! I wish I had a 4 channels recorder so I will justify a second one... :-)
Great stereo mic for camcorder use
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by buddyh on B&H Photo Video
I use this mic. for use with my GY Hm 100e camcorder,it produces a very clear sound, good reproduction of low to high freq. It's also very quiet (very good signal to noise ratio) I think it's absolutely worth the money!
great mike for $
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Jack on B&H Photo Video
I use this mic primarily for nature recording/soundtrack for video. Only been using for 2 weeks. Works great so far. Well-built piece of equipment.
Excellent quality microphone
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by KEVIN on B&H Photo Video
excellent microphone I have been using this to video Rock bands such as Demon,Lawless,Tygers of Pan Tang,Dirty White Boyz and A couple of videos for Mr Mark Stanway with my Canon XHA1s semi pro camera the audio quality is outstanding for the price and stereo separation is also excellent highly recommend this for live recordings
Quiet and Natural-Sounding
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Melvin on B&H Photo Video
I've been using this mic for three months now, and I really like it. It's a one-trick, X-Y pony, but sometimes that's exactly what you need. Setup is quick and easy- I can be recording with this mic while I'd still be futzing with stereo bars and other mic pairs. Gives a good, realistic stereo field.
Very Satisfied
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Garry on B&H Photo Video
I bought the mic for field recordings to make ambient backgrounds. It does the job well. It is not at all hyped, which is a most useful character in a mic to be used for this purpose. Neither is it noisy, The stereo separation is decent. If I lost this one, I would buy another.
Sounds good, well constructed
Audio-Technica BP4025 X/Y Stereo Field Recording Microphone
Reviewed by Owen on B&H Photo Video
A solid, professional grade mic that sounds good and does not buckle when things get loud.
