A bargain for the price.
Go and get a Blue Yeti.
As recently as five years ago, streaming, podcasting and crisp in-game comms was a relatively unexplored space.
Just connect directly to your PC, point and shoot.
Audio-Technica AT2040USB: Price and availability
This isnt the outright cheapest option out there.
Thats why you generally see dynamic mics used for live vocals, for example.
No stand orarmis supplied with this mic, so you will need to source either one separately.
There is a ring light around a touch-to-mute button to indicate power and mute status, but thats it.
Were a long way from SteelSeries Alias territory, with its on-capsule lighting displays.
In terms of on-mic controls, in addition to the USB-C connector, there are some additional features.
The polar pattern and input pop in take a lot of the hard work out of the setup.
The audio qualitys already there, with essentially no need to bring plugins in.
Its an absolute win for ease of use.
That does mean that this is a very specialist beast, though.
Not a downside, but rather a concession to the AT2040USB being so brilliant at its intended purpose.
Ive got mixed feelings about the touch-to-mute button, though.
Thats a tiny issue in whats otherwise a glowingly positive experience.
Should you buy the Audio-Technica AT2040USB?
Youre rough on your audio equipmentThis is one tough mic capsule.
USB input isnt a big drawAlready own a fancy audio interface?
Consider XLR mics thatll make use of it.
Also consider
If the AT2040USB isnt shouting out at you, consider these other USB mic options.
For more information read our fullSteelSeries Alias review.
For more information read out fullRode X XCM50 review.
Read more about how we test
First reviewed August 2024.
