Audio Technica BP4027

MS Stereo Shotgun Microphone with Internal Matrix for Broadcast

• Stereo condenser shotgun microphone with independent line-cardioid and figure-of-eight capsules in a Mid-Side configuration
• Three selectable modes: unmatrixed M-S, wide L/R stereo (LR-W), and narrow L/R stereo (LR-N)
• Internal matrix for achieving left/right stereo without external mixers
• Separate Mid and Side signals for adjusting stereo width in post-production
• Frequency response from 30 Hz to 20 kHz
• Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter (12 dB/octave)
• 5-pin XLR output with included splitter cable to two 3-pin XLRs
• Rugged 380 mm body weighing 142 g, with mount, windscreen, and carrying case included

The Audio-Technica BP4027 is a stereo condenser shotgun microphone designed for broadcast and professional audio production. It features two independent capsules—one line-cardioid and one figure-8—arranged in a Mid-Side configuration. A switchable internal matrix allows you to choose whether to record a direct left/right stereo image—with a wide or narrow soundstage—or separate Mid and Side signals, which can be processed with maximum flexibility in post-production. A compact solution for sports coverage, ambient recording, documentaries, and EFP.

Mid-Side stereo shotgun with line-cardioid and figure-8 capsules

The line-cardioid capsule (Mid) is pointed toward the sound source and captures the main signal with the directivity typical of a shotgun, while the figure-of-eight capsule (Side) picks up the lateral information that defines the stereo width. Combined, the two capsules deliver a coherent stereo image that is compatible in mono—a fundamental requirement in broadcast.

M-S Mode for Adjusting Stereo Width in Post-Production

In M-S mode, the BP4027 provides separate Mid and Side signals on two outputs. This allows you to determine the width of the stereo image in post-production, or on location using a mixer equipped with a matrix, without being limited by a choice made during recording.

Internal matrix with wide or narrow L/R stereo

When you need traditional, ready-to-use stereo, the internal matrix converts the signals to left/right without the need for external mixers. You can choose between two modes depending on the environment: LR-W (wide), with a broad image and more ambient sound, and LR-N (narrow), with greater rejection and less reverberation from the location.

Stereo Image Positioning and Control

For proper left/right panning, position the microphone with the “UP” label facing upward and the controls at the bottom. As you move closer to the sound source, the stereo image widens and ambient sound decreases; as you move away, the image narrows and room sound increases.

80 Hz high-pass filter and connections for field use

The built-in 80 Hz high-pass filter, with a slope of 12 dB/octave, allows you to switch from a linear response to low-frequency roll-off, reducing traffic noise, air conditioning systems, room reverberation, and mechanical vibrations transmitted by the boom or gooseneck.

5-pin XLR output and splitter cable included

The BP4027 features a 5-pin male XLR output. The included 0.61 m cable splits the signal into two standard 3-pin male XLR connectors—the gray connector for Mid (left) and the red connector for Side (right)—ready for two balanced microphone inputs on a recorder, camera, or mixer. The microphone requires 11 to 52 V phantom power on both channels.

Rugged Construction and Accessories

The rugged body is designed for heavy-duty outdoor use. Included are the AT8405a mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands with a 3/8"-16 adapter, the AT8135 foam windscreen, two O-rings for larger-diameter camera mounts, and a protective case.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Audio-Technica
• Model: BP4027
• Type: stereo condenser shotgun microphone
• Element: two independent permanently polarized condenser capsules
• Polar patterns: line-cardioid (Mid) and figure-8 (Side)
• Modes: M-S, LR Stereo-Wide (LR-W), LR Stereo-Narrow (LR-N)
• Frequency response: 30 Hz – 20 kHz
• High-pass filter: 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave, switchable (linear / roll-off)
• Open-circuit sensitivity: Mid -30 dB (31.6 mV); Side -34 dB (19.9 mV); stereo L/R -36 dB (15.8 mV) relative to 1 V at 1 Pa
• Impedance: 200 ohms
• Maximum SPL: Mid 123 dB SPL; Side 127 dB SPL; stereo L/R 126 dB SPL (1 kHz, 1% THD)
• Dynamic range: Mid 101 dB; Side 101 dB; stereo L/R 102 dB
• Signal-to-noise ratio: Mid 72 dB; Side 68 dB; stereo L/R 70 dB (1 kHz, 1 Pa, A-weighted)
• Power supply: Phantom power 11–52 V DC, typically 4 mA at 48 V per channel
• Output connector: Built-in 5-pin male XLR
• Cable: 0.61 m dual cable, from 5-pin female XLR to two 3-pin male XLRs
• Dimensions: length 380 mm, diameter 21 mm
• Weight: 142 g
• Included accessories: AT8405a mount for 5/8"-27 booms, 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 adapter, AT8135 windscreen, two O-rings, protective case