Welcome to our deep dive microphone comparison of two popular Audio-Technica microphones: the AT2040 and AT2020!
If you’re in the market for a high-quality microphone, you’ve probably come across the AT2040 and AT2020. Both mics have their unique features and specifications, but which one is the right fit for your audio needs?
Let’s take a look at which would be best for you.
Quick Answer: When we compared the AT2040 to the AT2020, we prefer the AT2020 for podcasting, live streaming and vocal recording.
Audio Technica AT2040 Overview
The Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Microphone offers a blend of professional-level performance and affordability, making it a go-to choice for podcasters and content creators. Building on Audio-Technica’s decades of expertise in microphone design, the AT2040 is crafted to deliver superior vocal reproduction with a focus on warmth and clarity.
Featuring a hypercardioid polar pattern, the AT2040 excels in isolating the speaker’s voice from background noise, ensuring clear and focused audio recordings. This makes it particularly effective in environments with potential sound interference. The microphone’s large-diaphragm dynamic capsule borrows design elements from traditional broadcast-style microphones, favored by professionals for their robust vocal capture.
The AT2040’s rugged construction is well-suited for regular use, providing reliability and durability. The classic end-address configuration of the microphone is not only functional but also adds a touch of professional aesthetics to any recording setup.
Easy to integrate into existing setups, the AT2040 requires no phantom power and connects via a standard XLR output, compatible with a wide range of audio interfaces and mixers. The microphone includes a pivoting stand mount and a protective pouch, aiding in its versatility and ease of use. The Audio-Technica AT2040 stands out for its exceptional vocal clarity, noise rejection capabilities, and affordability, positioning it as a wise choice for those seeking quality audio performance on a budget.
Audio Technica AT2020 Overview
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a versatile and affordable cardioid condenser microphone, well-suited for home studios and project recording setups. As a condenser mic, it excels in capturing vocal and acoustic performances with remarkable clarity and detail. The AT2020 features a low-mass diaphragm custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response, ensuring nuanced audio capture.
With its cardioid polar pattern, the AT2020 is designed to isolate the sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise, making it ideal for recording in less controlled environments. The microphone’s robust construction promises durability, even in daily studio use, while its sleek design adds a professional touch to any setup.
Equipped with a standard XLR connection, the AT2020 is compatible with most audio interfaces and mixers, requiring 48V phantom power for operation. Its wide dynamic range and high SPL handling capability make it versatile for a range of applications, from recording vocals, to acoustic instruments, to overhead drum miking.
Included with the microphone are a stand mount and a soft protective pouch, making setup and storage straightforward. The Audio-Technica AT2020 represents an excellent balance between performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for both aspiring and experienced content creators.
AT2020 vs AT2040 Topics Specs
Audio Technica AT2040 | Audio Technica AT2020 | |
Connector | XLR | XLR |
Transducer | Dynamic | Condenser |
Polar Pattern | Hypercardioid | Cardioid |
Address Type | End | Side |
Frequency Response | 80-16,000 Hz | 20Hz-20kHz |
Sensitivity | -53 dB | -37 dB |
Max SPL | N/A | 144 dB |
Weight | 615 g (1.35 lbs) | 345 g (.75 lbs) |
AT2020 vs AT2040 Topics Frequency Response
AT2020 vs AT2040 – Best Mic?
When we compared the Audio-Technica AT2020 with the AT2040 microphones, we liked the AT2020 better. The sound from the AT2020 was clearer and more consistent, which was really nice to hear.
Also, the AT2020 didn’t pick up as much extra noise when we moved or handled the microphone as the AT2040 did.
This made the AT2020 easier and more comfortable to listen to for a long time.
We think The AT2020 is the better choice for your podcast or recording because of its clear sound and reduced background noise.
AT2020 vs AT2040 Topics Pricing
- Audio Technica AT2040: https://currentprice.io/at2040
- Audio Technica AT2020: https://currentprice.io/at2020
- Rode Rodecaster Duo: https://currentprice.io/rodcaster_duo
- Rode Rodecaster Pro II: https://currentprice.io/rodecaster2
- Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro Headphones: https://currentprice.io/beyer_dt_990
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1+ Boom Arm: http://currentprice.io/psa1_plus
- Quality Acoustic Treatment Panels: http://currentprice.io/soundpanels
AT2020 vs AT2040 Topics
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:26 – Equipment Setup
- 1:20 – Microphone Pricing
- 1:46 – Looks / First Impressions
- 2:25 – Microphone Mounting
- 2:53 – Microphone Specs
- 3:57 – Frequency Response
- 5:45 – Plosive Test
- 6:11 – Background Noise Test
- 6:43 – Off-Axis Rejection
- 7:15 – Proximity Effect Test
- 7:54 – Handling Noise Test
- 8:18 – Tap Test
- 8:55 – Processing Test (Eq, Compressor, etc.)
- 9:37 – Blind Test
- 10:06 – Overall Thoughts
- 14:15 – Final Thoughts
