Welcome to our deep-dive comparison of two popular microphones: the Audio-Technica AT2040 and the Rode PodMic. If you’re a podcaster, streamer, or any content creator looking for the perfect mic, this video is for you!
Quick Answer: We prefer the tone and usability of the Rode PodMic compared to the Audio Technica AT2040.
- Audio Technica AT2040: https://currentprice.io/at2040
- Rode PodMic: https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
Audio Technica AT2040 Microphone
Designed with budget-conscious podcasters and content creators in mind, the Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Microphone is the result of years of experience in creating reliable microphones for both studio and live settings.
This microphone showcases a large-diaphragm dynamic capsule, positioned in a classic end-address setup reminiscent of the professional broadcast microphones.
It offers a rich and warm vocal sound quality, while its hypercardioid polar pattern ensures reduced background noise and room reflections, making it ideal for clear audio recordings.
Rode PodMic Microphone
The Rode PodMic is a dynamic microphone designed for professional podcasting, boasting a durable all-metal construction and a sleek design. It features a cardioid polar pattern, which excels at reducing background noise and focusing on the sound source directly in front of it. This makes the PodMic ideal for environments that are not acoustically treated. An internal pop filter is included to minimize plosives, enhancing clarity in vocal recordings.
The PodMic is specifically tuned to improve speech clarity, ensuring articulate and present voice outputs. Additionally, it comes with a built-in shock mount to reduce mechanical noise and vibrations.
While compatible with standard XLR interfaces, it is optimized for the Rodecaster Pro Podcast Production Studio. Offering professional-level audio performance at an affordable price, the Rode PodMic is a popular choice among podcasters of all levels.
Audio Technica AT2040 vs Rode Podmic Specs
Audio Technica AT2040 | Rode PodMic | |
Connector | XLR | XLR |
Transducer | Dynamic | Dynamic |
Polar Pattern | Hypercardioid | Cardioid |
Address Type | End | End |
Frequency Response | 80-16,000 Hz | 20Hz-20kHz |
Sensitivity | -53 dB | -57.0dB |
Max SPL | N/A | N/A |
Weight | 615 g (1.35 lbs) | 937g (2 lbs) |
Audio Technica AT2040 vs Rode Podmic Frequency Response
Audio Technica AT2040 vs Rode Podmic
In our comparative testing of the Audio-Technica AT2040 and the Rode PodMic, we found a distinct preference for the Rode PodMic. The PodMic demonstrated superior clarity in audio reproduction, capturing vocals with more precision and crispness. Additionally, its performance in noise rejection was notably better.
This contrasted with the AT2040, which, while proficient, did not match the PodMic’s level of vocal clarity and ambient noise reduction.
Our tests indicated that the Rode PodMic stands out as the more effective choice for podcasting and similar applications.
Audio Technica AT2040 vs Rode Podmic Pricing
- Audio Technica AT2040: https://currentprice.io/at2040
- Rode PodMic: https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
- 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
Audio Technica AT2040 vs Rode Podmic Topics
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:22 – Equipment Setup
- 1:23 – First Impressions / Looks
- 2:20 – Microphone Mounting
- 3:13 – Microphone Specs
- 4:16 – Frequency Response
- 6:52 – Plosive Test
- 7:32 – Proximity Effect
- 8:05 – Background Noise Rejection
- 8:30 – Off Axis Noise Rejection
- 8:55 – Handling Noise Test
- 9:11 – Tap Test
- 9:23 – Audio Processing Demo
- 9:59 – Blind Test
- 10:30 – Overall Thoughts
- 12:31 – Final Thoughts / Recommendation
