A‑Type 4 Ambisonic Microphone – High‑Definition First‑Order Spatial Audio Capture
Experience precise, immersive sound with the Reynolds A‑Type 4: a four‑capsule tetrahedral A‑Format ambisonic microphone handcrafted for nature recordists, VR creators and 360° audio enthusiasts.
Key Features & Benefits
- First‑Order Ambisonics (ACN SN3D) – Four closely matched 14 mm cardioid electret capsules deliver detailed horizontal and vertical localisation, ideal for binaural, binaural‑rendered or channel‑based formats.
- Ultra‑Low Self‑Noise – Achieves approximately 10 dBA self‑noise (theoretical 6 dB improvement over a single capsule) with a 78 dB signal‑to‑noise ratio, capturing subtle ambience with clarity.
- High SPL & Sensitivity – 127 dB max SPL and –21 dB sensitivity minimise preamp gain requirements, ensuring distortion‑free recordings of quiet and loud sources alike.
- Lightweight & Robust – Weighing just 75 g, the SLS‑printed Nylon body resists condensation and withstands knocks, while Sorbothane mounting pads isolate capsules from vibration.
- Eco‑Friendly Design – Produced via selective laser sintering with minimal waste and bio‑based materials for a reduced environmental footprint.
Precision Engineering & Sustainable Construction
Each A‑Type 4 is meticulously assembled by Jack Reynolds in the UK, featuring:
- SLS 3D‑Printed Nylon – Ultra‑lightweight, condensation‑resistant material that tolerates extremes from cold, wet nights to humid jungles and arid deserts.
- Nickel‑Coated Body & Grille – Provides electromagnetic shielding and a hard‑wearing finish.
- Sorbothane Vibration Isolation – Decouples capsules from the body to eliminate handling and structure‑borne noise.
- Aerospace‑Grade Wiring – Silver‑plated, Teflon‑insulated wire maintains signal integrity under all conditions.
Custom LEMO Cabling
- 3 m Mogami 5.1 Cable – Crafted to ISO standards by LEMO UK, terminated with a 2B series LEMO plug mated to an 8‑pin socket on the mic body.
- Neutrik XX XLR Tails – 30 cm colour‑coded, electronically balanced low‑impedance outputs drive long cable runs without loss.
- LEMO Reliability – Components chosen for professional use from the International Space Station to high‑end film production.
Atmoky/Reynolds A→B VST Encoder Plug‑in
Convert raw A‑Format tracks into versatile B‑Format ambisonics for VR, 360° video, binaural or multichannel mixes with ease:
- Windshield & Windjammer Presets – Compensate for spectral coloration introduced by Rycote BBG and Windjammer accessories.
- LF Shelf & ‘Air’ Control – Optional boost below 40 Hz and high‑end lift above 12.5 kHz to refine tonal balance.
- Diffuse‑Field EQ Matching – ‘Air’ control tunes response to industry standards such as the Neumann KU100.
Optional Accessories
Enhance performance and protection with:
- Rycote BBG Windshield – Optimised fit for ambient noise reduction and transit protection.
- Rycote Windjammer Fur – Superior wind attenuation in exposed locations.
- Rycote INV 7HG Shockmount – Adaptors for various stand threads, ensuring secure, vibration‑free mounting.
- Waterproof Flight Case – Rugged plastic with foam inserts for safe transport.
Applications & Designer Support
- Field & Studio Proven – Developed through collaboration with leading nature recordists and spatial‑audio software developers.
- Direct Access – No distributors means competitive pricing and personal support from designer Jack Reynolds.
- Immersive Samples – Hear A‑Type 4 recordings in Axel Drioli’s immersive field‑recording library and our YouTube channel.
Discover the A‑Type 4’s exceptional clarity, durability and portability.
For demos, custom builds or technical enquiries, email Jack at jack@reynoldsmicrophones.