The Audio-Technica AT2040 is a hypercardioid dynamic microphone designed for podcasting that combines broadcast-quality audio with built-in shock mounting and pop filtering. Available in XLR ($109) and USB ($159) versions, it delivers professional vocal isolation without requiring studio treatment.
Key features:
- Hypercardioid pattern: Superior background noise rejection vs standard cardioid mics
- Built-in efficiencies: Integrated shock mount and pop filter included
- Two connectivity options: XLR for pro setups or USB for plug-and-play
- Professional construction: All-metal build with 2-year warranty
- Proven performance: Used by thousands of podcasters for broadcast-quality results
High-quality audio doesn’t necessarily require a high price tag, and the Audio-Technica AT2040 proves it. Thousands of podcasters rely on this microphone for podcasting, streaming, and home recording projects.
You should know there are two different types of AT2040s: one with a USB connector and one with an XLR connector. We’ll look at both of them here, including their benefits, features, and limitations, so you can decide which model makes sense for your show.
If the AT2040 doesn’t fit your recording setup, we’ll recommend four mic alternatives.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Key Specs of the AT2040 and AT2040USB?
- What Does the Audio-Technica AT2040 (XLR) Include?
- What Does the AT2040USB Include?
- AT2040 vs AT2040USB: What’s the Difference?
- How Do You Set Up the Audio-Technica AT2040?
- How Does the AT2040 Perform for Podcast Recording?
- Is the AT2040 Good for Recording in Noisy Rooms?
- Where Can You Buy the Audio-Technica AT2040?
- What Other Audio-Technica Microphones Should Podcasters Consider?
- What Are the Best Alternatives to the Audio-Technica AT2040?
- Is the Audio-Technica AT2040 Worth Buying in 2026?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Key Specs of the AT2040 and AT2040USB?
The AT2040 (XLR, $109) and AT2040USB ($159) are hypercardioid dynamic podcast microphones with all-metal builds, integrated shock mounts, and pop filters. Both carry a 2-year warranty; the USB model includes cables and a mounting clamp while the XLR version includes a pivoting stand mount and protective pouch.
Use this quick chart to compare them side by side:
| Mic Type | Pickup Pattern | Connector Type | In the Box | Perks | Price | |
| AT2040 | Dynamic | Hypercardioid | XLR | Pivoting stand mount; 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 threaded adapter; protective pouch | Two-year limited warranty | $109 USD |
| AT2040 USB | Dynamic | Hypercardioid | USB | Mounting clamp; 5/8”-27 to 3/8”-16 threaded adapter; USB cable (about 2.0 m (6.6′), USB Type-C to USB Type-A) •USB conversion adapter (USB-Type-A to USB Type-C) | Two-year limited warranty | $159 USD |
Audio-Technica AT2040 What Does the Audio-Technica AT2040 (XLR) Include?
Audio-Technica’s podcasting mic in XLR form is a dynamic microphone with all-metal construction, an internal shock mount, and a multistage foam mesh windscreen. It ships with a pivoting stand mount and protective pouch, weighs 1.35 pounds, and retails at $109 USD.
The Audio-Technica AT2040 is a dynamic podcast microphone designed specifically for the human voice. This model has an XLR connection rather than a USB connection, so you’ll need an audio interface or podcast mixer to start recording audio.
Here are some features of the Audio-Technica AT2040:
- Dynamic microphone (best suited for podcasting)
- All-metal construction
- Internal shock mount
- Multistage foam mesh windscreen
- Pivoting stand mount and protective pouch (included)
- 1.35 pounds per mic
- XLR connection
Audio-Technica AT2040 pros
- The AT2040 has a built-in shock mount and pop filter, so you don’t need to purchase them as separate accessories.
- The AT2040’s hypercardioid pickup pattern works well in noisy spaces. By limiting audio pickup near the sides and rear of the mic, you can get quality audio even before launching your podcast editing software.
- This microphone comes with an adjustable clamp so that you can configure it however necessary. You can attach the AT2040 to a stand or a tripod and adjust it to fit a 90-degree XLR lead.
Audio-Technica AT2040 cons
- The AT2040 is XLR compatible only. You’ll need a podcast mixer or an audio interface to record. Note that the cost of a mixer can be four times the cost of a mic (if you don’t already own one). Consider a podcast equipment bundle if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution. You could always opt for a cheaper mixer like the PreSonus Revelator io24.
- The AT2040 is a slightly heavier microphone, which could make it difficult to transport. The Samson Q2U, for example, weighs just 0.7 pounds. If portability is a priority, the portable podcast setup guide covers lighter alternatives.
- The AT2040 doesn’t come with an XLR cable, so you must purchase one separately. Prices start at $21.95 USD if you buy from Audio-Technica.
What Does the AT2040USB Include?
The AT2040USB is the plug-and-play version of Audio-Technica’s hypercardioid dynamic mic, connecting via USB-C to any computer or tablet. It costs $159, weighs 1.32 pounds, and ships with USB cables, a mounting clamp, and a USB-A adapter — no audio interface required.
The AT2040USB is precisely what it sounds like — the USB version of the AT2040. This microphone is designed to easily connect directly to a laptop, tablet, or computer.
The features of the AT2040USB are very similar to the AT2040:
- Dynamic microphone (best suited for podcasting)
- All-metal construction
- Internal shock mount
- Multistage foam mesh windscreen
- Mounting clamps and USB cables (included)
- 1.32 pounds per mic
- USB connection
Audio-Technica AT2040USB pros
- The AT2040USB doesn’t require an audio mixer. Instead, it’s compatible with devices you probably already own, including podcast laptops, desktops, and tablets.
- Unlike the AT2040, the USB model comes with all necessary cables and accessories (such as shock mounts or pop filters), keeping costs low if you have a tight budget.
- You can connect your podcast headphones directly to the AT2040USB, making monitoring audio during your show simple and convenient.
Audio-Technica AT2040USB cons
- The AT2040USB isn’t the cheapest USB mic on the market — it’s also $50 more than the XLR model. Other providers, including the Samson Q2U, offer USB and XLR connections for less than half the price.
- You may get a mounting clamp with the AT2040USB, but you won’t get a mic stand or boom arm out of the box. You can always purchase one from Audio-Technica, but it’s an additional expense (starting at $89 USD).
- USB microphones have more limited frequency responses than traditional microphones — meaning they don’t always capture the full spectrum of sound, which results in less detailed audio.
AT2040 vs AT2040USB: What’s the Difference?
The core difference is connectivity. The AT2040 uses XLR and requires an audio interface or mixer ($119–$299). The AT2040USB plugs directly into a computer via USB-C. The XLR model costs $50 less ($109 vs $159) but doesn’t include cables.
The most significant difference between the AT2040 and the AT2040USB is all in the name. The AT2040USB has a USB connection, while the AT2040 has an XLR connection. You’ll need an audio mixer or audio interface to use the former and just a laptop or desktop to use the latter.
There are a few other differences worth exploring here:
- The AT2040 doesn’t come with cables, but the AT2040USB does.
- You won’t get a protective pouch or pivoting stand mount with the AT2040USB.
- The AT2040USB is slightly lighter than the AT2040 (21 ounces versus 21.7 ounces).
- The AT2040USB costs slightly more than the AT2040 ($109 versus $159 USD).
If you own a mixer, you may want to use the AT2040 rather than the AT2040USB. A mixer will make managing multiple audio sources easier and streamline production before making professional edits.
On the other hand, if you’re brand-new to podcasting, you may want to use the AT2040USB. You probably don’t own mixing equipment right now, but there’s a very good chance you own a laptop or desktop.
How Do You Set Up the Audio-Technica AT2040?
Setting up the AT2040 requires mounting the mic on a stand, connecting via XLR to an audio interface (or USB directly to computer for USB model), plugging in headphones for monitoring, adjusting gain levels, and pressing record. Setup takes 5-10 minutes for first-time users.
The setup for the Audio-Technica AT2040 depends on the model you buy. We’ll look at both here, but the good news is that they’re equally straightforward.
You can set up the Audio-Technica AT2040 in five basic steps:
- Mount your microphone to an appropriate stand. Depending on your preferences, this could be a tripod or boom arm.
- Connect the microphone to your device. For the AT2040, this should be a mixer or audio interface. For the AT2040USB, this should be your laptop or tablet.
- Plug in your podcast headphones. The AT2040USB has a built-in audio jack, so if you have the AT2040, you should plug your headphones into your mixer.
- Adjust the gain and output volume until you’re satisfied with the levels. Since neither microphone has a built-in clip LED, you must rely on your mixer or DAW to monitor output levels.
- Press the record button on your AT2040. You’re ready to edit, finalize, and publish your podcast.
For a complete studio layout beyond the mic, see our guide to setting up a podcast studio.
Want a visual guide to the AT2040? Refer to the video below:
For the AT2040USB, use this equivalent video instead:
How Does the AT2040 Perform for Podcast Recording?
Both AT2040 models deliver an 80–16,000 Hz frequency response optimized for the human voice. The XLR version runs 600-ohm impedance for higher output quality through a dedicated interface; the USB version adds an 80 Hz high-pass filter to cut room noise.
The Audio-Technica AT2040 and AT2040USB share the same essential characteristics. They’re both hypercardioid, dynamic mics with a frequency response rate of 80–16,000 Hz.
There are a few key differences worth mentioning here. The AT2040 has an impedance of 600 ohms, which means it’s more likely to produce a higher-quality sound.
The USB model offers a low-frequency roll-off (or High-Pass Filter) of 80 Hz, 18 dB/octave, which is carefully adjusted to reduce unwanted room tone (as well as noise from heating systems, fans, small appliances, and more).
Regardless of your chosen mic, you’ll get high-quality audio that improves your podcast performance.
Is the AT2040 Good for Recording in Noisy Rooms?
The AT2040’s hypercardioid pickup pattern rejects sound from the sides and rear more aggressively than a standard cardioid mic, making it well-suited for home offices, open-plan spaces, and untreated rooms. It’s one of the few sub-$150 mics that performs consistently without acoustic panels.
A standard cardioid microphone captures sound across roughly 131 degrees in front of the capsule. A hypercardioid narrows that window significantly, prioritizing what’s directly in front while rejecting off-axis noise including HVAC hum, keyboard clicks, and background conversation that a cardioid would partially capture.
We see this consistently with TPC clients who set up podcasts in home offices and open workspaces. Switching to a hypercardioid dynamic mic like the AT2040 often eliminates the need for acoustic panels or soundproofing foam. The dynamic capsule adds a second layer of noise resistance: unlike condenser mics, it doesn’t amplify subtle room reflections.
One thing to keep in mind: the hypercardioid pattern creates narrow rear rejection lobes at approximately 110 degrees off-axis. Sound directly behind the mic gets some pickup. Position the AT2040 with the rear of the capsule pointed toward a wall, not toward another speaker or noise source.
For a deeper comparison of how the dynamic capsule compares to condenser options, see our guide to dynamic vs condenser microphones.
Where Can You Buy the Audio-Technica AT2040?
The AT2040 ($109) and AT2040USB ($159) are available directly from Audio-Technica and through Amazon, Sweetwater, eBay, and Target. Sweetwater offers a USB bundle with a desk stand for $25 more; eBay listings often include boom arms and cables.
Audio-Technica sells both the AT2040 and AT2040USB.
However, several other retailers have these microphones in stock.
You can buy the Audio-Technica AT2040:
- From Amazon. You can find the USB model here and the XLR model here.
- From Sweetwater. The USB version comes in a podcast equipment bundle with a microphone desk stand for $25 more. The XLR model comes standard, however.
- From eBay. You’ll find plenty of bundles in exchange for a higher price, including an AT2040 with a boom arm and cables and an AT2040USB with a tripod desk stand.
- From Target. Since this is an online and a physical retailer, you may be able to purchase your AT2040 in person.
What Other Audio-Technica Microphones Should Podcasters Consider?
Beyond the AT2040, Audio-Technica makes the AT2020USB-XP ($169, USB with desk stand and pop filter), AT4033a ($149.99, condenser with 5-year warranty), and AT4060A ($1,699, studio-grade tube condenser). For most podcasters, the AT2040 price point is the practical ceiling.
If the AT2040 doesn’t meet your needs, one of Audio-Technica’s other microphones may work better.
- AT2020USB-XP: Comes with a custom desk stand, clip-on pop filter, 3/8″-16 to 5/8″-27 threaded adapter, 6.6-foot USB-C to USB-A cable, and a USB-A to USB-C adapter for $169 USD.
- AT4033a: Comes with a custom shock mount, a floating-construction capsule, and a five-year warranty for $149.99 USD.
- AT4060A: Comes with a five-year limited warranty for $1,699 USD.
What Are the Best Alternatives to the Audio-Technica AT2040?
The top alternatives to this dynamic broadcast mic are the PreSonus Revelator (USB, $109, includes DAW software), Shure MV7X (XLR, ~$129, Voice Isolation Technology), RØDE PodMic (XLR, built-in pop filter), and Samson Q2U (dual USB/XLR, budget-friendly dual connectivity).
There’s much to be said about the AT2040, but that doesn’t mean it’s right for your show.
One of these alternatives may be a better fit, starting with one of the more cost-effective options:
PreSonus Revelator
The PreSonus Revelator is another USB mic designed with a cardioid pickup pattern. It’s $50 cheaper than the AT2040USB and the same price as the AT2040.
What makes this microphone different from the rest? Its audio editing tools. Each purchase comes with the Studio One Artist DAW and the Studio Magic software bundle so you can edit, publish, and promote podcasts more quickly.
We wrote a guide to the PreSonus Revelator so you could get more details at a glance.
Shure MV7X
If you don’t mind spending extra money on a good podcast microphone, the Shure MV7X may be a good fit. The Shure MV7X is an XLR microphone designed specifically for podcasting. It’s also compatible with stage stands, desktop stands, and boom arms.
However, unlike the Audio-Technica AT204, you won’t benefit from a hypercardioid pickup pattern. The good news is you’ll have access to Voice Isolation Technology, which isolates the human voice without a soundproof studio.
Learn more about the Shure MV7X in our dedicated guide.
RØDE PodMic
The RØDE PodMic is very similar to the AT2040. It has a built-in pop filter, an internal shock mount, and a two-year warranty covering accidental damage.
You should know that the RØDE PodMic is only compatible with audio interfaces and mixers. It cannot be plugged into your laptop, tablet, or desktop unless you purchase an adapter (starting around $18.99 USD).
Said differently: if you’re already leaning toward the AT2040USB, the RØDE PodMic may not be the right mic for you.
Learn more in our guide to the RØDE PodMic.
Samson Q2U
The Samson Q2U is best described as a no-frills, no-fuss podcast microphone. It offers XLR and USB connectivity, so you don’t need to choose between one type.
However, compared to the AT2040, the Q2U may struggle more often with loud noises. User reviews complain of poor performance with humming, plosives, and sibilances, so you may need an additional windscreen and pop filter to mitigate the effects.
Is the Audio-Technica AT2040 Worth Buying in 2026?
Yes. The AT2040 XLR model delivers broadcast-quality vocal isolation at $109, with integrated shock mounting and pop filtering that removes two common accessory costs. It’s the right choice for podcasters in untreated rooms who want professional audio without a studio build-out.
The AT2040 XLR model is a great option for podcasters who want crystal-clear audio without a professional recording studio. It’s also adaptable: pair the XLR version with your audio interface or connect the USB model to your laptop or tablet.
If you’re new to podcasting, this hypercardioid dynamic microphone is only one piece of the puzzle. You’ll also need tools to support your video recording and publishing workflows, which The Podcast Consultant can manage on your behalf.
TPC offers done-for-you services that take the guesswork out of business podcasting. We provide social media assets, video production services, and podcast audits so your show can reach its full potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the AT2040 and AT2040USB?
The AT2040 uses XLR connectivity and requires an audio interface or mixer, while the AT2040USB connects directly to computers via USB-C. The XLR model costs $109 and delivers slightly higher output quality through dedicated recording equipment. The USB model costs $159 but includes all necessary cables and works with any computer — the practical choice for beginners without existing gear. Both share the same hypercardioid pattern, build quality, and integrated shock mounting.
Do I need an audio interface for the AT2040?
Yes, the standard AT2040 requires an audio interface or mixer because it uses XLR connectivity. Compatible interfaces include the Focusrite Scarlett Solo ($119), PreSonus Revelator io24 ($199), and Zoom PodTrak P4 ($199). If you don’t already own an interface and want plug-and-play simplicity, the AT2040USB connects directly to any computer without additional equipment.
How does the AT2040 compare to the Shure MV7X?
Both deliver professional podcast audio in similar price ranges ($109–$129). The AT2040 features a hypercardioid pattern with tighter noise rejection; the MV7X uses a cardioid pattern with Voice Isolation Technology. The MV7X costs around $20 more and has a more premium external finish. For home office recording with ambient noise, the AT2040’s hypercardioid pattern typically performs better.
Does the AT2040 work for video podcasts?
Yes. Both AT2040 models work well for video podcasts. The XLR version pairs with audio interfaces that sync with video recording software; the USB version connects directly to computers running platforms like Riverside, Zoom, or OBS. Consistent vocal quality ensures your audio matches professional video production standards.
What accessories do I need with the AT2040?
The AT2040 XLR ships with a pivoting stand mount and protective pouch but requires an XLR cable ($22+), a boom arm or mic stand ($30–$90), and an audio interface ($119–$299). The AT2040USB includes all cables, a mounting clamp, and USB adapters. Neither model requires a separate shock mount or pop filter — both are built in.
How long does the AT2040 last?
The AT2040’s all-metal construction and 2-year warranty reflect Audio-Technica’s confidence in durability. With normal podcast use (2–5 hours weekly), the AT2040 typically lasts 5–10 years before performance degradation. The dynamic capsule design is more durable than condenser alternatives and less susceptible to damage from drops or humidity.
Is the AT2040 good for recording in a noisy home office?
Yes. The AT2040’s hypercardioid pickup pattern rejects sound from the sides and rear more aggressively than a standard cardioid mic, making it well-suited for home offices, open-plan spaces, and rooms without acoustic treatment. The dynamic capsule adds further noise resistance compared to condenser mics, which amplify subtle room reflections.
What audio interface pairs best with the AT2040?
The AT2040 XLR works with any interface that has an XLR preamp input. Well-matched options include the Focusrite Scarlett Solo ($119), PreSonus Revelator io24 ($199), and Zoom PodTrak P4 ($199). Since the AT2040 is a dynamic mic, phantom power isn’t required — any entry-level interface with a single XLR input handles it.
How does the AT2040 compare to the Shure SM7B?
The AT2040 costs $109 versus $399 for the Shure SM7B. Both are dynamic mics optimized for vocals, but the SM7B has a wider frequency range (50–20,000 Hz vs 80–16,000 Hz) and decades of broadcast credibility. The AT2040’s hypercardioid pattern rejects more off-axis noise; the SM7B uses a standard cardioid pattern with an internal air suspension shock system. For sub-$150 broadcast-quality recording, the AT2040 is the stronger value.
Is the AT2040 a condenser or dynamic microphone?
The AT2040 and AT2040USB are both dynamic microphones, not condensers. Dynamic mics are generally more durable, less sensitive to room noise, and better suited to untreated recording environments — which makes the AT2040 a practical choice for home podcasters and home office setups. See our dynamic vs condenser microphone guide for a full comparison.