Audio-Technica AT2040USB Overview

The Ideal Plug-and-Play Broadcast Mic for Today’s Podcasters, Streamers, and Content Creators

Audio Technica AT2040USB purpose-built for modern podcasters, Twitch streamers, and digital content creators, Audio-Technica’s AT2040USB revamps its original analog design, adding USB-C connectivity while retaining its iconic features like a durable metal build, precise hypercardioid pickup, built-in shock mount, and pop filter. The new USB-C output supports high-resolution audio at up to 24-bit/96 kHz, and the microphone offers practical onboard controls, including a high-pass filter to reduce low-frequency noise from air conditioning or desk vibrations. With a mix control to balance your voice and computer audio, plus a silent, capacitive mute button, you’ll stay in command of your sound.

The AT2040USB equips a 3.5mm headphone jack and a high-output amplifier, complete with a dedicated volume control, to further enhance usability and provide high-fidelity, low-latency monitoring for professional headphones. Despite its digital upgrades, the microphone preserves the rich, warm sound and large-diaphragm proximity effect of the original AT2040, creating an intimate audio experience the closer you get to the mic. The AT2040USB comes with a USB-C to USB-A cable, a USB-A to USB-C adapter, an AT8487 mounting clamp, and a 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 adapter for instant use.

A classic, robust design with modern updates

The AT2040USB builds on the strengths of the analog AT2040, with a durable metal body, hypercardioid pattern for focused audio capture, and excellent noise isolation from surrounding room sounds like computer fans and keyboard clicks. We retain the familiar multistage foam windscreen to combat plosives, while the integrated shock mount reduces handling noise and vibrations from mic stands or boom arms.

Low-Latency Direct Monitoring

Perfect for podcasters and streamers, the AT2040USB has a 3.5mm headphone jack that enables direct, low-latency audio monitoring. The built-in amplifier provides up to 77 mW of output at 32 ohms, driving even high-demand headphones, while a rear headphone volume dial allows easy level adjustment for optimal streaming experiences.

Comprehensive Onboard Controls

With features like these, the AT2040USB prioritizes control at your fingertips.

The device features a touch-sensitive mute with an LED indicator for silent, on-the-fly muting.

There is a switchable high-pass filter at 80 Hz with an 18 dB/octave roll-off to eliminate low-end rumbles.

Mix control to blend the mic signal and playback audio from the USB connection.

High-fidelity digital audio conversion

For creators who demand quality, the AT2040USB features a high-resolution digital converter, allowing recording in either 16- or 24-bit at sample rates from 44.1 to 96 kHz. This ensures crystal-clear, professional audio capture without needing an external interface.

Everything You Need to Get Started

Audio-Technica has equipped the AT2040USB with essential accessories for immediate setup. The package includes the AT8487 mounting clamp and a 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 adapter, making it compatible with most mic stands and boom arms. Also included are a USB-C to USB-A data cable and a USB-A to USB-C adapter, so you can connect to any computer setup with ease.

FAQs For Audio-Technica AT2040USB Hypercardioid Dynamic USB

1. What is the difference between the AT2040 USB and the original AT2040? 

The AT2040USB features USB-C connectivity, allowing for direct digital connections to computers. It maintains the classic design and sound quality of the original AT2040 while adding modern features such as onboard controls, a high-pass filter, and improved monitoring capabilities.

2. Does the AT2040USB require any additional software or drivers? 

No, the AT2040USB is a plug-and-play device, meaning it doesn’t require additional drivers or software to function. Most computers and recording software can immediately use it.

3. What types of devices can I connect the AT2040USB to? 

Any device with a USB port, such as PCs, Macs, and laptops, can connect to the microphone. It is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS.

4. Can I use the AT2040 USB for live streaming and gaming? 

Yes, the AT2040USB is ideal for live streaming, gaming, podcasting, and other content creation due to its hypercardioid pickup pattern, which minimizes background noise and focuses on your voice.

5. What is the purpose of the high-pass filter? 

The high-pass filter cuts out low-frequency sounds (below 80 Hz), such as background noise from air conditioning or vibrations from the desk, ensuring a cleaner audio signal for your recordings.

6. How does the mix control work?

The mix control allows you to blend the audio from your microphone with playback audio from your computer. This is useful for balancing your voice with any sound effects or music during streaming or recording.

7. Does the device have a headphone output for monitoring?

Yes, the AT2040USB has a 3.5mm headphone output for direct monitoring of your audio with low latency, allowing you to hear exactly what you’re recording in real time.

8. What accessories come with the microphone?

The AT2040USB comes with a USB-C to USB-A cable, a USB-A to USB-C adapter, an AT8487 mounting clamp, and a 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 adapter, providing everything you need to set it up easily.

9. Can I use this microphone for recording music? 

Because of its high-quality sound capture and wide frequency response, the AT2040USB is versatile for both voice and music applications.

10. What is the warranty on the AT2040USB? 

Audio-Technica typically offers a one-year warranty on their microphones, covering manufacturing defects. It’s always best to check with the retailer or Audio-Technica for specific warranty details.