Alternative rock act Neon Trees (Tyler Glenn, Elaine Bradley, Branden Campbell and Chris Allen) has endorsed Audio-Technica microphones and wireless systems, and is utilizing numerous A-T models on its current tour, which kicked off in early July.
The band’s A-T roster includes the Artist Elite 5000 Series UHF wireless system with AEW-T6100a transmitter, used for lead vocals, as well as the following hardwired models: AE6100 hypercardioid dynamic handheld microphone, ATM250 hypercardioid dynamic instrument microphone, AE4100 cardioid dynamic handheld microphone, ATM450 cardioid condenser instrument microphone, ATM650 hypercardioid dynamic instrument microphone, AT4040 cardioid condenser microphone and AT4033/CL cardioid condenser microphone.
Neon Trees production manager Mike Bangs notes, “The AE4100 and AE6100 give high output that rivals many condensers, without becoming a roaming overhead. When Tyler [Glenn, lead vocals/keyboards] is running all over the venue, the 6100 really shines – the longer front pattern lets him really work the mic, and it survives ‘cupping’ issues better than most other mics. And then we use the 4100s on the background vocals, because it doesn’t have the same rear lobe as the 6100 and sounds more natural off-axis.”
Bangs singles out a few more mics and applications: “The ATM450 is one of my favorite mics. The capsule is comparable to or better than most pencil condensers, but the side-address gives me placement options I can’t get from any other mic. I use it under snare and under hi-hat – I love going under the hat, and with the 450 I can get it right under Elaine’s [Bradley, drums/percussion] contact point, and the snare is in the null.
“Then, on guitar cabinets, we use the AT4040. I love the AT4050 too, but I chose the AT4040 since I don’t need the adjustable pattern. We’ve also just started using the AT4033/CL on overheads – I am loving the ‘openness’ and natural feel of the high frequencies. They remind me of a much more expensive condenser.”
The stability of A-T mics puts the band at ease on the road. “I carry my mics and console everywhere we go. It gives the band a familiar feeling, no matter where we are. We use layering of inputs on almost every instrument,” Bands says. “The A-T mics allow us to build a huge sound with relatively little backline. They are also incredibly durable – our lead vocal 6100 has taken serious punishment with little cosmetic damage and no change in audio quality.”
Neon Trees’ current tour began in Philadelphia on July 9 and will run through August 22.
