Ambient A-Ray Surround Microphone Suspension

The Ambient A-Ray is a modular surround microphone suspension that holds five microphones from 50 cm to more than 2 m apart, for mobile or fixed setups.

Telescopic carbon fiber arms adjust in angle and spacing, reaching 222 cm tip to tip with the long pair, far wider than conventional IRT or INA arrays. Layouts run from a classic AB pair and a Decca Tree to an OCT surround setup, with any microphones and polar patterns.

Spaced microphone techniques, with their depth and space, suit classical and organ recording and ambience for film.

Setup

Sliding nodes on the center bar, with toothed flanges and quick-release skewers, set each arm’s position and angle quickly. Arranging the nodes at right angles allows experimental 3D arrays. Each arm tip and the center bar end in a 3/8 in thread for a microphone mount, and the center piece mounts the rig on a boom pole or stand.

Built from aluminum and carbon fiber, the A-Ray weighs 1650 g and folds to 76 cm to fit its carrying bag. Microphones, mounts, and cables are sold separately, and Ambient’s options include the A-MBOX 6-channel breakout box, the A-MK6 multicore cable, and the A-MXL-2F adapter cable.

Features

• Five microphone positions, each with a 3/8 in thread
• Telescopic carbon fiber arms, up to 222 cm tip to tip
• AB, Decca Tree, OCT, and 3D arrays
• Sliding nodes with quick-release skewers
• Mounts on a boom pole or stand
• 1650 g, folds to 76 cm
• Carrying bag included