In this comparison, we compare two popular microphones in the podcasting and streaming world: the Audio-Technica AT2040 and the Maono PD100. Whether you’re a budding podcaster, a seasoned live streamer, or just curious about audio gear, this guide is for you!
Quick Answer: We prefer the sound and the noise rejection of the Maono PD100 over the performance of the Audio Technica AT2040.
Audio Technica AT2040 Microphone Overview
The Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Microphone is designed for podcasters and content creators on a budget, leveraging Audio-Technica’s experience in creating studio and stage microphones. It features a large-diaphragm dynamic capsule in an end-address configuration, similar to traditional broadcast microphones. The AT2040 is designed to deliver a warm vocal tone while minimizing background noise and room reflections, thanks to its hypercardioid polar pattern.
The AT2040 includes an internal multistage pop filter to reduce vocal plosives and an integrated shockmount to prevent noise from stand handling and vibrations. It has an XLR 3-pin output connector and low sensitivity, requiring use with a mic preamp capable of moderate to high gain.
Maono PD100 Microphone Overview
The Maono PD100 microphone is designed for broadcasting, featuring a built-in dynamic core and an inner double layer pop filter. It incorporates noise isolation technology to reduce plosives, aiming to produce clear and clean audio output. The microphone offers a frequency response range of 60-14kHz, aiming for a balanced audio reproduction that is clean and mellow.
From a design perspective, the PD100 is tailored for home studio use. It features a cardioid pattern and an “End Address” pick-up style, designed to capture voice details. The XLR Podcast microphone has an all-metal construction and comes with a 2.36-inch detachable mic stand, which is adjustable up to 180°. This design is intended to provide flexibility in adjusting the microphone angle to suit different recording needs.
AT2040 vs PD100 Specs
Audio Technica AT2040 | Maono PD100 | |
Connector | XLR | XLR |
Transducer | Dynamic | Dynamic |
Polar Pattern | Hypercardioid | Cardioid |
Address Type | End | End |
Frequency Response | 80-16,000 Hz | 60-14kHz |
Sensitivity | -53 dB | -53dB ± 3dB |
Max SPL | N/A | 132 dB Spl |
Weight | 615 g (1.35 lbs) | 322g (11.4oz) |
AT2040 vs PD100 Frequency Response
AT2040 vs PD100 Comparison
When we compared two microphones, the Audio Technica AT2040 and the Maono PD100, we liked the Maono PD100 better. The PD100 had a nicer sound overall and was better at keeping out background noises, which is really helpful when recording. The AT2040, on the other hand, had too much of a middle-range sound, which didn’t seem as good to us as the sound from the PD100.
AT2040 vs PD100 Pricing
- Audio Technica AT2040: https://currentprice.io/at2040
- Maono PD-100: https://currentprice.io/maono_pd100
- Rodecaster Duo: https://currentprice.io/rodcaster_duo
- 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
AT2040 vs PD100 Topics
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:23 – Equipment Setup
- 1:16 – Microphone Pricing
- 1:42 – Looks / First Impressions
- 2:43 – Microphone Mounting
- 3:19 – Microphone Specs
- 4:22 – Frequency Response
- 5:56 – Plosive Test
- 6:26 – Proximity Test
- 7:02 – Background Noise Test
- 7:39 – Off Axis Noise Rejection Test
- 8:02 – Handling Noise Test
- 8:22 – Tap Test
- 8:39 – Audio Processing Test (Eq, Compression, etc.)
- 9:13 – Blind Test
- 9:45 – Overall Thoughts
- 12:30 – Final Thoughts
