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Audio-Technica AT2040USB Hypercardioid Dynamic USB Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2040USB Hypercardioid Dynamic USB Microphone

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a broadcast-style dynamic microphone designed for creators who nee...

Best current price£126.00from Wex Photo Video

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Wex Photo VideoAudio Technica AT2040USB Dynamic USB Microphone - Black
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£126.00
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Product Information

Full details

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a plug-and-play USB dynamic microphone designed for content creators like streamers, podcasters, and YouTubers seeking professional-quality audio without a complex setup. Its key benefit is delivering rich, natural vocal tones with a hypercardioid pickup pattern that isolates sound and minimizes ambient noise. A potential caveat is its fixed frequency response, which may require post-processing for certain vocal types.

All features

Model Part NumberAT2040USB
BrandAudio-Technica

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Do I need an audio interface to use this microphone?

No, the Audio-Technica AT2040USB is a USB microphone, meaning it connects directly to your computer's USB port and does not require an external audio interface or phantom power.

What is the difference between this and an XLR microphone?

XLR microphones typically require an audio interface or mixer for connection and power. The AT2040USB is designed for simplicity, connecting directly via USB with its own built-in electronics.

How do I mute the microphone quickly?

Simply tap the touch-sensitive capacitive button on the microphone. The LED indicator ring will change from blue to red, indicating that the audio is muted.

Can I use this microphone for singing?

While primarily designed for voice capture in podcasting and streaming, the AT2040USB can be used for basic vocal recording. Its dynamic capsule and frequency response are optimized for speech, but it can produce acceptable results for singing with proper technique and potential EQ.

What is the advantage of the hypercardioid pickup pattern?

The hypercardioid pattern focuses audio capture tightly on the front of the microphone, significantly reducing sound coming from the sides and rear. This is ideal for isolating a voice and minimizing distracting ambient noise like room reflections or computer fan hum.

Does the microphone come with all necessary cables?

Yes, the AT2040USB includes a USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable and a USB Type-A to USB Type-C adapter, allowing for connection to a wide range of computers.

What is the sampling rate and bit depth?

The microphone supports high-resolution audio capture with a sample rate of up to 96 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit.

Troubleshooting

Microphone not detected by computer

Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the microphone and the computer. Try a different USB port. Restart your computer. Verify that the microphone is selected as the input device in your operating system's sound settings.

No sound or very low volume

Check that the microphone is not muted (LED indicator should be blue). Increase the microphone input volume in your computer's sound settings or recording software. Ensure the headphone volume is turned up for monitoring.

Audio has excessive background noise or hum

Position the microphone closer to the sound source and ensure the hypercardioid pattern is aimed correctly at the speaker. Minimize sources of noise like computer fans or air conditioning. Check cable connections for any interference.

Pops or plosives are too prominent

While the integrated pop filter helps, try positioning the microphone slightly off-axis from your mouth or increasing the distance. Ensure you are not speaking directly into the microphone's diaphragm.

Headphone monitoring has latency or echo

The AT2040USB provides zero-latency monitoring. If you experience echo, it might be a setting within your software. Ensure direct monitoring is enabled on the microphone and that software monitoring is not also active, causing a double signal.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Excellent vocal clarity and rich tone suitable for broadcast and podcasting.
  • Simple plug-and-play USB setup requires no additional hardware.
  • Effective hypercardioid pattern significantly reduces background noise.
  • Convenient onboard mute button and headphone monitoring with volume control.
  • Robust metal construction with integrated shock mount for durability and noise reduction.

Cons

  • Frequency response is fixed (80 - 16000 Hz), potentially requiring EQ for some voices.
  • Hypercardioid pattern can be sensitive to off-axis sounds if not positioned correctly.
  • No included shock mount adapter for boom arms, though compatible models can be purchased separately.
  • The integrated pop filter, while effective, may not completely eliminate all plosives for very close-up speaking.
  • USB connection limits expandability compared to XLR microphones with interfaces.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup:

  1. Connect: Plug the included USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable into the microphone's USB Type-C port.
  2. Connect to Computer: Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your computer. If your computer only has USB-C ports, use the provided USB Type-A to USB Type-C adapter.
  3. Select Microphone: Your computer should automatically recognize the AT2040USB. Go to your computer's sound settings (or audio settings within your recording software) and select the "Audio-Technica AT2040USB" as the input device.
  4. Headphone Monitoring: Connect your headphones to the 3.5mm jack on the microphone for zero-latency monitoring.

Compatibility:

  • Operating Systems: Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS.
  • Software: Compatible with most major Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), streaming software (OBS, Streamlabs), and video conferencing applications.

Care:

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the microphone body. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners.
  • Storage: Store the microphone in a safe place, away from extreme temperatures or humidity. Consider using a microphone pouch or case to protect it during transport.
  • Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the microphone to strong impacts. The integrated shock mount offers some protection, but care should still be taken.

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