Name: Audio-Technica AT2005USB
Brand: Audio-Technica

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2005USB

Overall score

6.9

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Audio Performance

8.2

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Microphone type

What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.

When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

handheld

Transducer type

What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.

When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

dynamic

Diaphragm size

What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.

When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

Capsule type

What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.

When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single

Sensitivity

What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.

When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

-54 dBV/Pa

Connectivity

6.5

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Connection type

What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB + XLR

Output connector type

What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

XLR

Headphone output

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.

When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

3.5 mm audio jack

What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.

When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

6.35 mm audio jack connector

What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.

When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

Recording

6.6

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Supported sample rates

What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

44.1, 48 kHz

Supported bit depths

What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.

When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

16 bit

Audio interface sample rate

What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.

When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Audio interface bit depth

What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.

When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)

What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.

When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

Pickup Patterns

3.2

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N. of polar patterns

What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.

When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

Cardioid pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.

When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

Omnidirectional pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.

When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

Hypercardioid pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.

When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

Bidirectional pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.

When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

Controls & Features

6.4

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Mute function

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.

When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

Onboard gain control

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.

When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

Volume control levels

What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.

When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

Flat DSP mode

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.

When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

DSP presets

What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.

When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

Power

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Phantom power required

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.

When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

Phantom power voltage

What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.

When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB bus-powered

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.

When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery life

What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.

When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Design

7.4

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Height

What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.

When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

Width

What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.

When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.

When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

Weight

What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.

When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

Body material

What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.

When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal

Accessories

6.2

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Included accessories

What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.

When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; cable; carrying case

Shock mount included

What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.

When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

Pop filter included

What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.

When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

Windscreen included

What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.

When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

Cable length

What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.

When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

Compatibility

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Android compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.

When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

iOS compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.

When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

Windows compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.

When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

macOS compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.

When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

Xbox compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.

When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

Audio-Technica AT2005USB vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT2005USB better than the average microphone?

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Includes mix control
Audio-Technica AT2005USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone lets you balance microphone audio and playback audio directly on the device.
When it matters: When game audio or playback needs to be balanced against your live microphone level.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2005USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
18 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (96 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
USB mode figure.
What it is: The ratio between the useful audio signal and background noise produced by the microphone path.
When it matters: When you record in untreated rooms and want the voice to stay cleaner than the background noise.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (96 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.96 dB vs 78 dB
Supports balanced output
Audio-Technica AT2005USB supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a balanced audio output connection for cleaner signal transfer.
When it matters: When you need a cleaner signal path over longer cable runs to an interface or mixer.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
Includes windscreen
Audio-Technica AT2005USB includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.
When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.
53.6% lighter
Audio-Technica AT2005USB is lighter than the average microphone (266 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB is lighter than the average microphone (266 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.266 g vs 573 g
18 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (96 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
Supports balanced output
Audio-Technica AT2005USB supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
Includes mix control
Audio-Technica AT2005USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
53.6% lighter
Audio-Technica AT2005USB is lighter than the average microphone (266 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
Includes windscreen
Audio-Technica AT2005USB includes a windscreen, the average microphone does not.

Why is Audio-Technica AT2005USB worse than the average microphone?

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5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
30 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (50 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
33 mW lower headphone output power
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower headphone output power than the average microphone (10 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.
At 16 ohms.
8 bit lower interface bit depth
Audio-Technica AT2005USB supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
No gain control
Audio-Technica AT2005USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
8 older release date
Audio-Technica AT2005USB is older than the average microphone (2,012 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT2005USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Audio-Technica AT2005USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2005USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
8 bit lower interface bit depth
Audio-Technica AT2005USB supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.16 bit vs 24 bit
5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: The highest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
When it matters: When you need extra top end detail from breath, cymbals, or bright room ambience.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (15,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.15000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
30 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (50 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.
What it is: The lowest sound frequency the microphone can capture.
When it matters: When you want the microphone to capture more low end from deep voices or instruments.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (50 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.50 Hz vs 20 Hz
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT2005USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
8 older release date
Audio-Technica AT2005USB is older than the average microphone (2,012 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
What it is: The period when the microphone model was officially introduced to the market.
When it matters: When you want a newer microphone platform with current connectivity or software support.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB is older than the average microphone (2,012 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2012 vs 2020
33 mW lower headphone output power
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower headphone output power than the average microphone (10 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.
At 16 ohms.
What it is: The maximum power that the microphone headphone output can deliver to connected headphones.
When it matters: When your headphones need enough power to reach a comfortable monitoring level.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower headphone output power than the average microphone (10 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.10 mW vs 43 mW
4.75x less popular
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.
When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Audio-Technica AT2005USB has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).1 vs 4.75

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2005USB?

Dual connectivity (USB and XLR) allows for both direct-to-computer use and upgrading to an audio interface later
Cardioid dynamic capsule does an excellent job of rejecting background noise and room echo
Durable, heavy-duty metal construction provides a premium, road-worthy feel
Built-in headphone jack with volume control allows for zero-latency direct monitoring
Cost-effective with a generous amount of included accessories (desktop stand, clips, USB and XLR cables)
Plug-and-play simplicity on both Mac and Windows operating systems

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2005USB?

Maximum digital audio resolution is capped at 16-bit/48 kHz via USB, limiting ultra-high-end studio quality
Some users report a faint background hum or hiss when utilizing the USB connection
Included desk stand is very short and susceptible to picking up desk-bumping vibrations

Expert reviews

musicradar.com

22/07/2021

Audio Technica AT2005USB review

The Audio-Technica AT2005USB is a budget-friendly dynamic microphone that stands out for its versatile dual connectivity, offering both USB and XLR outputs. Tested by experts at MusicRadar, this plug-and-play mic costs £79 / $79 and targets entry-level podcasters, streamers, and gamers. Its core strengths lie in its simple operation and excellent ability to reject background noise,...Read more

musiciannerd.com

27/09/2020

Audio-Technica AT2005USB Review

The Audio-Technica AT2005USB is a highly versatile, budget-friendly dynamic microphone that earns a 9.0/10 score for its strong performance in voice-based applications. Priced under $100, its standout feature is a hybrid dual-connection design providing both USB digital output for direct computer recording and XLR analog output for live stage setups or audio interfaces. It features...Read more

thetheaterofyourmind.com

21/05/2015

The AT2005USB—A Popular Podcasting Microphone Goes Pro

The Audio-Technica AT2005USB is highly recommended as a versatile, budget-friendly microphone ($50) offering both USB and XLR connectivity, delivering a clean, punchy sound superior to many, more expensive, dynamic models. Key advantages include its high output efficiency—which reduces mixer noise—and convenient hardware features like a built-in headphone monitor and volume control....Read more

mmusicmag.com

15/08/2012

AUDIO-TECHNICA AT2005USB - M Music & Musicians Magazine

The Audio-Technica AT2005USB is reviewed as a highly versatile, all-purpose cardioid dynamic microphone that excels in both field and studio applications. A major pro of this device is its dual-connectivity framework, featuring both XLR and USB outputs that seamlessly accommodate different setups, from direct computer recording to live PA system integration. It delivers crystal...Read more

recordinghacks.com

13/03/2013

ATR2100 USBGo to product viewer dialog for this item. and AT2005USB - A Closer Look

The Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB and AT2005USB are budget-friendly, dual-output dynamic microphones featuring both analog (XLR) and digital (USB) connectivity. Head-to-head testing reveals that the sonic distinctions between the two models are negligible, sharing the same capsule, technical specifications, and general audio performance, which means buyers should choose between them...Read more

provideocoalition.com

09/12/2014

An unfair yet justifiable mic comparison: AT2005USB versus Plantronics .Audio 326

In a ProVideo Coalition review, author Allan Tépper compares the Audio-Technica AT2005USB dynamic microphone and the budget-friendly Plantronics.Audio 326 headset, justifying the "unfair" comparison by focusing on mobile, multi-track audio solutions. The evaluation highlights the AT2005USB's superior audio quality, featuring a cardioid design that offers excellent vocal isolation...Read more

svconline.com

13/07/2012

Audio-Technica ATM610aGo to product viewer dialog for this item. & AT2005USB Microphones Review

The Audio-Technica ATM610a is a traditional dynamic handheld microphone designed with a hypercardioid pick-up pattern limited to 100 degrees, making it highly effective at rejecting off-axis feedback from sources like in-ceiling speakers. It features a frequency response of 40Hz to 16kHz, with a 6dB bump around 4kHz to accentuate voice intelligibility and a smaller bump at 12kHz...Read more

15/06/2012

Part 2: Hybrid XLR/USB/iPad mics that rival expensive studio mics

This ProVideo Coalition review by Allan Tépper evaluates hybrid XLR/USB/iPad dynamic microphones, such as the Audio-Technica AT2005USB, highlighting their high-quality internal preamps and analog-to-digital converters. A key advantage is the ability to achieve broadcast-ready sound and bypass expensive external preamps, dispelling the myth that dynamic microphones inherently produce...Read more

07/01/2014

iOS 7 expands digital USB audio use with iPhone/iPod Touch

iOS 7 introduced a significant, unannounced update allowing iPhones and iPod Touches to support external USB microphones and audio interfaces, a capability previously restricted to iPads and desktops. This enhancement enables high-quality, direct digital recording by bypassing internal hardware, turning devices into portable, studio-quality recording tools. The primary advantage is...Read more

podcastage.com

15/11/2016

Audio-Technica AT2005USB USB / XLR Mic Review / Test Would you like me to find video reviews with sound tests, or perhaps compare it to the newer ATR2...

The ⁠Audio-Technica AT2005USB is a highly versatile cardioid dynamic microphone reviewed by Bandrew Scott on Podcastage. A major pro of this microphone is its dual functionality, offering both a digital USB output for direct computer plug-and-play and an analog XLR output for connecting to mixers or audio interfaces. It features a built-in, latency-free 3.5mm headphone jack complete...Read more

son-video.com

Audio-Technica: everything you need to know about the brand (mentioning the AT2005USB)

Audio-Technica, founded in Japan in 1962 by Hideo Matsushita, has evolved from a specialist in phono cartridges into a prominent global name in both high-fidelity consumer audio and professional equipment. The brand initially built its sterling reputation on innovative vinyl technology, such as the patented VM dual-magnet cartridges and the groundbreaking use of high-purity PCOCC...Read more

Audio-Technica AT2005USB Review | 76 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2005USB

Audio-Technica AT2005USB vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT2005USB better than the average microphone?

Why is Audio-Technica AT2005USB worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica AT2005USB and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2005USB?

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2005USB?

Expert reviews

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