Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT4050
Best versatile microphone for professional studio recording.
The Audio-Technica AT4050 is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone renowned for its exceptional combination of high SPL capability and a transparent, airy sound profile. Its dual-diaphragm design ensures precise polar pattern definition across the entire frequency range, while transformerless circuitry minimizes distortion and enhances transient response. Ideal for both studio and live applications, it excels with vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, and guitar amps, offering rich low-end qualities and clear upper-mid frequencies.
$656.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+29%
Above average
Element
Externally-polarized (DC bias) condenser
/ Externally-polarized (DC bias) condenser
Who it's for
- Studio engineers needing a flexible workhorse microphone
- Audio professionals seeking faithful and uncolored sound capture
- Recording studios requiring reliable, long-lasting equipment
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious home studio owners or aspiring musicians
- Beginners without audio interfaces providing phantom power
- Home recordists in untreated or acoustically challenging rooms
Performance breakdown
Versatility
Three polar patterns handle everything from intimate vocals to complex drum kits.
SPL Handling
Easily captures loud sources without distortion thanks to high headroom capacity.
Sonic Transparency
Delivers a clean, uncolored sound that faithfully reproduces the source material.
Transient Response
Transformerless circuitry ensures fast, accurate capture of sharp, percussive audio peaks.
Build Quality
Rugged construction provides long-term reliability for demanding studio and stage environments.
Self-Noise
Low noise floor ensures pristine recordings even during quiet, delicate passages.
Key Specs
Element
Externally-polarized (DC bias) condenser
Polar Patterns
Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-of-eight
Frequency Response
20-18,000 Hz
Low Frequency Roll-off
80 Hz, 12 dB/octave
Open Circuit Sensitivity
-36 dB (15.8 mV), re 1V at 1 Pa
Impedance
100 ohms
Maximum Input Sound Level
149 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.; 159dB SPL, with 10 dB pad (nominal)
Noise
17 dB
Features
- Three switchable polar patterns
- High SPL capability
- Transparent and airy uppers/mids
- Rich low-end qualities
- Dual large diaphragms
- Transformerless circuitry
- Surface-mount electronics
- Switchable hi-pass filter and pad
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Audio Technica AT4050 for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable versatility across various recording applications. Many highlight its ability to capture nuanced audio with clarity and detail, making it a studio workhorse. Users frequently commend its robust build and reliable performance, affirming its status as a durable investment. The microphone is often celebrated for delivering professional grade results, offering outstanding value for its price point. This combination of superior audio fidelity and accessible cost makes it a highly recommended choice for serious audio enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Know before you buy
The AT4050 features three switchable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-of-eight. This versatility allows you to adapt the microphone for various recording techniques, such as stereo miking or isolating specific sound sources.
Yes, the AT4050 is designed to handle high sound pressure levels. It can manage up to 149 dB SPL, or 159 dB when the 10 dB pad is engaged, making it an excellent choice for loud guitar cabinets and drum overheads.
Yes, this is a condenser microphone that requires 48V DC phantom power to operate. Ensure your audio interface or preamp can supply this voltage to the microphone via an XLR cable.
The 80 Hz hi-pass filter helps reduce unwanted low-frequency rumble, such as floor vibrations or air conditioning noise. It is particularly useful when recording vocals or acoustic instruments where you want to clean up the low end before the signal hits your preamp.
Absolutely. Its transparent, airy high-end and detailed transient response make it a favorite for capturing the nuances of acoustic guitars, strings, and pianos with high clarity.
The AT4050 comes with an AT8449 shock mount, which is essential for isolating the mic from stand-borne vibrations. It also includes a protective carrying case and a dust cover for storage.
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