Name: Audio-Technica AT4050
Brand: Audio-Technica

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT4050

Overall score

6.4

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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

8.0

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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

studio

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

condenser

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

21.4 inch / mm

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

dual

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

-36 dBV/Pa

Connectivity

5.2

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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

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

4.0

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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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

Pickup Patterns

8.6

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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

7.0

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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

4.0

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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

48 V

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

6.1

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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

brass

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

shock mount; mount adapter; 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

N/A

Compatibility

7.2

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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 AT4050 vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT4050 better than the average microphone?

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2 more polar patterns
Audio-Technica AT4050 has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 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
Audio-Technica AT4050 has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.3 vs 1
27 dB SPL higher limit
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (149 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
With 10 dB pad: 159.
What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (149 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.149 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
Supports omnidirectional pickup
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
Supports bidirectional pickup
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
35.5 dB wider dynamic range
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (132 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (132 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.132 dB vs 96.5 dB
Includes high-pass filter
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a high pass filter for reducing low frequency rumble.
When it matters: When you need to cut rumble from desks, traffic, air conditioning, or stage vibration.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
Includes pad switch
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone includes a pad switch for lowering input sensitivity.
When it matters: When loud singers, drums, or guitar amps would otherwise overload the input stage.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
Supports balanced output
Audio-Technica AT4050 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 AT4050 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
27 dB SPL higher limit
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (149 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
35.5 dB wider dynamic range
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (132 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
Supports balanced output
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
2 more polar patterns
Audio-Technica AT4050 has more polar patterns than the average microphone (3 vs 1). The average microphone offers 1 polar patterns.
Supports omnidirectional pickup
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports omnidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
Supports bidirectional pickup
Audio-Technica AT4050 supports bidirectional pickup, the average microphone does not.
Includes high-pass filter
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a high-pass filter, the average microphone does not.
Includes pad switch
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a pad switch, the average microphone does not.
Includes shock mount
Audio-Technica AT4050 includes a shock mount, the average microphone does not.

Why is Audio-Technica AT4050 worse than the average microphone?

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2,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.
1 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (77 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
No headphone output
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
No zero-latency monitoring
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
No USB bus power
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
Requires phantom power
Audio-Technica AT4050 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
26 older release date
Audio-Technica AT4050 is older than the average microphone (1,994 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
Not compatible with Android
Audio-Technica AT4050 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
Not compatible with iOS
Audio-Technica AT4050 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
No zero-latency monitoring
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Audio-Technica AT4050 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 AT4050 does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
No USB bus power
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 does not support USB bus power, the average microphone does.
Requires phantom power
Audio-Technica AT4050 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 requires phantom power, while the average microphone does not.
Not compatible with iOS
Audio-Technica AT4050 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 is not compatible with iOS, the average microphone is.
Not compatible with Android
Audio-Technica AT4050 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
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
Audio-Technica AT4050 is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
2,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica AT4050 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 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 AT4050 has a lower high-frequency limit than the average microphone (18,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a high-frequency limit of 20,000 Hz.18000 Hz vs 20000 Hz

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT4050?

Extremely versatile 'workhorse' microphone suitable for vocals, acoustic instruments, drums, and amplifiers
Features three switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omni, figure-8) for diverse recording scenarios
Delivers a transparent, modern, and detailed sound with a present high-end
Durable, heavy-duty construction makes it suitable for studio or live road use
Low noise floor and good value for money compared to higher-end microphones

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT4050?

Some users find the high-end character lacks warmth or sounds 'prissy' for certain vocal types
Modern, flat, and transparent sound might be too neutral for those seeking vintage character
Requires phantom power and a quiet environment due to high sensitivity

Expert reviews

soundonsound.com

01/02/1995

Audio Technica AT4050

The Audio Technica AT4050 is a highly versatile, multi-pattern studio capacitor microphone featuring a dual-diaphragm capsule that provides omni, cardioid, and figure-of-eight polar patterns. Unlike its single-pattern sibling, the AT4033, which uses a back-electret design, the AT4050 is a true capacitor microphone housed in a slightly longer, robust chassis with excellent build...Read more

tapeop.com

01/07/2003

Audio-Technica AT4050 Review - TapeOp Pro Mic Analysis

In the Tape Op Magazine review, reviewer Scott Craggs evaluates the Audio-Technica AT4050 alongside its sibling, the AT4040. Having owned and relied on the AT4050 as his solitary "good mic" for years, Craggs characterizes it not as a microphone you fall deeply in love with, but rather as a highly versatile, dependable studio workhorse. He highlights its exceptional utility across a...Read more

mixdownmag.com.au

12/09/2018

Reviewed: Audio-Technica AT4050 Condenser Microphone

The review outlines several major advantages of the Audio-Technica AT4050 condenser microphone, highlighting its exceptional build quality and versatile audio capture capabilities. A key pro noted by the reviewer is the all-metal construction of the suspension cradle, which is engineered to be lightweight yet sturdy enough to entirely isolate the microphone from unwanted...Read more

bonedo.de

18/12/2009

Audio-Technica AT4050 Review

The Audio Technica AT4050 is a robust, dual-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for both studio work and demanding road tours, famously trusted by Metallica’s live sound engineer for guitar cabinets and vocals. Priced at a recommended retail price of €799.00 (and found online around €580.00), it offers selectable cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-eight polar patterns,...Read more

proaudio.de

28/12/2012

Audio-Technica AT4050 - proaudio.de

The Audio-Technica AT4050 is a long-standing, multi-pattern large-diaphragm studio condenser microphone. The review highlights its exceptional, robust metal build quality and neutral sound signature that lets the source shine without pushing its own forced coloration. Its main advantages include high versatility across three polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8),...Read more

sonomag.fr

01/01/2015

Real-world test: Using the AT4050 in actual conditions

This review highlights the implementation of Wave Field Synthesis (WFS) technology for a classical concert starring accordionist Richard Galliano and cellist Henri Demarquette at the Théâtre du Châtelet. The major pros of using the Sonic Emotion WFS processor include its ability to deliver an incredibly natural and transparent audio reinforcement that hides the presence of...Read more

Audio-Technica AT4050 Review | 76 Data compared

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Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT4050

Audio-Technica AT4050 vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT4050 better than the average microphone?

Why is Audio-Technica AT4050 worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica AT4050 and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT4050?

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT4050?

Expert reviews

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