Audio-Technica supported the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards for the 21st year in a row by providing an extensive selection of vocal and instrument microphones for the show which aired live earlier this week on ABC from the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
The 48th Annual CMA Awards utilized more than 150 Audio-Technica microphones, including hard-wired models and Artist Elite 5000 Series UHF wireless systems with AEW-T6100a hypercardioid dynamic handheld microphones/transmitters.
The team of industry veterans responsible for the audio at this year’s CMA’s again included co-audio producers Tom Davis and Paul Sandweiss, front-of-house mixers Patrick Baltzell (production) and Rick Shimer (music) utilizing a system provided by ATK/Audiotek (Valencia, CA), broadcast music mixers John Harris and Jay Vicari working with Music Mix Mobile *NJ/CA), and monitor mixers Tom Pesa and Jason Spence.
Artist Elite 5000 Series/AEW-T6100a wireless systems were used for lead vocals by A-T endorser Jason Aldean, who performed “Burnin’ It Down;” fellow A-T endorser Thomas Rhett, who sang “Get Me Some of That;” and Cole Swindell on his hit “Chillin’ It.” These systems were also deployed Doobie Brothers founding members Tom Johnston, Pat Simmons and John McFee on an all-star performance of “Listen to the Music” and “Takin’ It to the Streets.”
The backline mic complement of wired mics included AT4080 phantom-powered bidirectional ribbon mics on guitars, AT4050 multi-pattern condensers on guitars, bass and overheads; AT4040 cardioid condensers for overheads; AE2500 dual-element cardioid instrument mics on kick drum; AE5100 cardioid condensers on hi-hat and ride cymbals; ATM650 dynamics on snare; and ATM350 cardioid condensers and ATM250 hypercardioid dynamics on toms.
“Audio-Technica is a key supporter for us during the CMA Awards,” states Davis. “Their artist relations and on-site technical support are both second to none. And of course, their wired and wireless mics sound great, and are consistently reliable. Having A-T in our corner makes our lives a whole lot easier.”
Vicari adds, “It’s a very easy decision for us to choose Audio-Technica for the CMA’s year after year. A-T microphones are consistent from mic to mic, and A-T offers a wide range of microphones perfect for the singers and instrumentalists featured on the show. When doing a live broadcast, you want reliability, and A-T’s products and support put us at ease.”