Podcasts are all the rage these days. They’re simple to produce, entertaining, and a great way to market your business. Poor audio, on the other hand, may completely derail a show. The most common reason is a poor choice of microphone. When looking for a microphone, one brand sticks out from the crowd — Audio-Technica.
Founded in 1962, it all started with the vision of producing affordable, high-quality audio for everyone. This was mainly due to the founders passion for listening. Since then, they’ve continued to innovate with products such as turntables, headphones, microphones, and commercial audio.
After 60 years, it’s safe to assume they know what they’re doing. The AT2020 is still one of their most popular podcast mics to date until the recently announced AT2040 Dynamic Podcast Microphone, which is inspired by their BP40 broadcast microphone.
AT2040 Microphone Key Features:
- Dynamic microphone with XLR connection
- Hypercardioid Polar Pattern for reduced room pickup
- 80-16,000 Hz frequency response
- Built-in windscreen
- Integrated shock mount
- Weight: 1.35lbs
- Includes mounting clamp, thread adapter, and storage pouch
The first thing you’ll notice about the AT2040’s all-metal design is that it has a “pod mic” size and feel to it. Although, it still screams Audio-Technica in style. It features an adjustable clamp that fits tightly to the body. It also comes with a thread adapter so the mic can be mounted to a boom arm or mic stand, giving you the flexibility you need.
The Audio
Because this is a dynamic microphone, you’ll need an audio interface with an XLR connection to use it. It shouldn’t require a Cloudlifter or external amp to power it since it doesn’t appear to be a gain-hungry mic like the SM7B. Even a small 2 x 2 interface like a Focusrite or Motu M2 should be sufficient enough to drive the mic.
Audio-Technica designed this front-addressed microphone with a hypercardioid polar pattern. The benefit of this is a tight pickup pattern that rejects ambient noise on the side of the microphone. It’s also specially calibrated to give your voice a more commanding presence, similar to what you’d hear in radio broadcasts or — more recently — podcasts.
The internal pop filter saves you from having to buy a separate one, giving your setup a cleaner look. It has a multi-stage foam mesh windscreen made from a non-woven filter to allow close-up use without all of the annoying plosives you would normally get when you’re on top of the mic. Of course, you may still buy one individually if you feel you need something extra.
It also has an integrated shock mount to minimize unwanted noise, shock, and vibrations from traveling through the mic arm, into the microphone, and into your recordings. We’ve all seen guests and hosts become overly enthusiastic and slam their hands on the table. The integrated shock mount is a must-have if you want to avoid weird distortions in your recordings.
The AT2040 is a great choice if you’re searching for your first podcast or livestream microphone, or just simply want to update your old one. Whether you’re a podcaster, streamer, or other content creator, you’ll get excellent broadcast-style sound at an affordable price. It’s tiny enough to keep at home or use as part of your mobile setup. Audio-Technica also includes a soft and protective pouch with each microphone.
The AT2040 podcast microphone is available for purchase at Adorama for $99.00.
