Audio-Technica AT2040 – The hypercardioid dynamic XLR microphone designed for professional podcasting
Meet the AT2040, a hypercardioid dynamic microphone engineered to deliver a warm, precise, professional sound while remaining extremely affordable. Primarily designed for podcasting, it is also an excellent choice for streaming, gaming, voice-over, and content creation in general.
Its large diaphragm provides a smooth and natural vocal tone, perfectly suited for close-up recording. The AT2040 features a multi-layer internal windscreen (foam + non-woven filter) that effectively reduces plosives and allows close-miking without unwanted noise.
The hypercardioid polar pattern of Audio-Technica microphones ensures optimal isolation, capturing mainly the voice positioned in front of the mic while rejecting side and rear noise. This results in a cleaner, more controlled, and more focused sound, even in untreated environments.
Thanks to its integrated shock mount, the microphone effectively attenuates mechanical noise and vibrations coming from a stand, boom arm, or desk mount, ensuring flawless recordings in any situation.
Whether you're getting started or already a seasoned creator, the AT2040 delivers remarkable quality for under €100, making it one of the best price-to-performance options in its class.
The AT2040 comes with a pivoting mount, a 5/8”-27 → 3/8”-16 thread adapter, and a protective pouch.
Technical specifications:
- Type: Dynamic microphone
- Element: Dynamic
- Polar pattern: Hypercardioid
- Frequency response: 80 – 16000 Hz
- Sensitivity: -53 dB (2.2 mV) – 0 dB = 1 V/Pa (1 kHz)
- Impedance: 600 ohms
- Dimensions: 145.3 mm length; max diameter 52 mm
- Weight: 615 g
- Connector: Integrated 3-pin XLRM
- Included accessories: AT8487 mount, 5/8"-27 → 3/8"-16 adapter, soft pouch
- Protective box: R13
Key points:
- Warm dynamic sound ideal for podcasting, voice-over, and streaming.
- Large diaphragm for natural tone and low self-noise.
- Internal multi-layer windscreen with built-in pop filtering.
- Hypercardioid polar pattern for superior vocal isolation.
- Integrated shock mount minimizing vibrations and mechanical noise.
- Durable and robust construction, perfect for intensive use.
- Universal XLR compatibility with any professional audio setup.
- Complete package including pivoting mount, adapter, and pouch.
- Outstanding price/performance ratio
