I have a AT897 and it doesn't have an on and off switch. Am I missing something or is the only off switch removing the battery. I don't have phanthom power.

Thanks,

Jon

You are correct, there is no on/off switch. most professional mics don't have on/off switches. Removing the battery makes it "off" unless you have phantom, in which case it's always "on" until you turn off the phantom. Removing the battery when not using for a long period is a good idea anyway, to prevent potential battery leakage problems.

Thank you. That is what I thought.

Jon

What's the lifespan of the battery in the AT897?

African or European? never mind... AT lists 1200 hours as typical. That's 50 days.

LOL,
is that 50 days of usage or 50 days of idle?

Lets do the math. 1200 hours would be 50 days. That is great life out of 1.5 volts

Jon

If a shoot is of any importance it's a good idea to use fresh batteries on all equipment. My grandson gets the "old" batteries for his Thomas the Tank engines so nothing goes to waste.

I agree. I always use brand new batteries every 2 times. I will shoot 2 weddings on a set and then I use them in my MP3 player. :)

Jon

But there's not really any need for new batteries each time on mics like this that use so little power!

Jon

It's called CYA-Cover Your Ass. New batts = no screw-ups.

Batteries are cheap, screw ups are expensive.

And if you're paranoid (like I am) you test them with a meter that puts them under load and you clean the contacts.... Even new ones can be defective and fingerprints can significantly degrade the connection.