Audio-Technica introduced the BP880R Contact Transducer, a waterproof microphone designed to capture impact and surface vibrations for sports broadcasting, film production, field recording, theater and other professional audio applications.
Unlike microphones that primarily capture airborne sound, the BP880R uses a high-sensitivity piezoelectric sensor to detect vibrations traveling through surfaces and structures. Audio-Technica says this allows production teams to capture sounds such as skate blades moving across ice, swimmers in a pool, hockey pucks hitting a goal and athletes interacting with equipment while minimizing surrounding ambient noise.
The BP880R has waterproof performance consistent with IPX7 standards and is designed for use in demanding environments. It can be submerged in water or ice, buried underground, installed in flooring or attached to structures and objects within a field of play.
The phantom-powered transducer includes an internal preamplifier and a fixed 20-meter waterproof cable with an XLR-M output connector. Its low-impedance output also allows cable runs to be extended using balanced audio cables.
The BP880R features a corrosion-resistant DZR brass body with a protective coating designed to withstand chlorinated water. Four through-holes allow it to be mounted using screws, nuts or zip ties, while a 1/4-inch threaded hole provides another mounting option.
Audio-Technica developed the BP880R in part from its experience supporting audio capture at sporting events, with the goal of giving production teams another way to incorporate physical sounds from the action into their audio mixes.
