Hi,

I am considering taking the plunge and buying myself a AT897 mic. However I read something on another forum that got me wondering. They eluded too, but not tested, that when the 897 is powered by battery @ 1.5V you will get a different response compared to using phantom power?

Does anyone know anything about this?

Also like many people I have been trying to make the decision should I go a 897 or the new rode videomic. I will basically be using it for in-doors / out-doors, on camera, and as a boom-mic and will be recording on to mini-disc. And I want something that I can grow with as I become more experienced.

I looked at the various pro's and cons, and I think 897 is the one. You think I am making the right choice? or should I be considering something else completely different?

Thanks in advance

Robert

Hi Robert

The AT987 is indeed a very nice mic for the money... I am very happy with mine.

I usually just stick a battery in it and forget about it...

I have a small Audio Mixer Preamp that offers Phantom power..
Now there may be a difference on paper and other more knowledgable than I will disagree.. but I can hear no practical difference with either set up.. Both work fine..

The general opinion seems to be you'll go a long way to find a better mic for the money..

Regards
Gareth

I agree with Gareth that you're probably not going to hear a difference between phantom and battery powering. But there is a difference in dynamic range and max SPL:

http://www.audiotechnica.com/prodpro/profiles/AT897.html

You can pay a lot more and get a better mic, but it is a fine mic for the money. I'm really happy with it and have no thoughts at all right now of upgrading.