Name: Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
Brand: Audio-Technica

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

Overall score

7.5

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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

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

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 + USB-c

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

9.9

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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, 96, 192 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

24 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

8.2

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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

4.7

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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

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 ATR2100x-USB vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB better than the average microphone?

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144 kHz higher interface sample rate
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (192 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
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-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (192 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.192 kHz vs 48 kHz
Supports loopback audio
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports loopback routing for combining input and system audio.
When it matters: When you want to send your microphone signal and system audio into one stream or recording feed.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
Includes mix control
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
Supports balanced output
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
53.2% lighter
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is lighter than the average microphone (268 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
Microphone only.
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 ATR2100x-USB is lighter than the average microphone (268 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.268 g vs 573 g
Supports balanced output
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports balanced output, the average microphone does not.
144 kHz higher interface sample rate
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (192 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
Supports loopback audio
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
Includes mix control
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
53.2% lighter
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is lighter than the average microphone (268 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB worse than the average microphone?

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5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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.
No gain control
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
33 mW lower headphone output power
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB 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.
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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB 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 ATR2100x-USB?

Dual connectivity (USB-C and XLR) allows for both direct-to-computer plug-and-play and professional setup upgrades.
Excellent background noise rejection and room echo isolation, making it ideal for untreated rooms.
Comes as a comprehensive kit including a desktop tripod, microphone clip, and multiple cables (USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A).
Onboard headphone jack with built-in volume control for latency-free zero-latency monitoring and computer playback.
Highly durable build quality with a sleek design, solid metal body, and convenient on/off switch.

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB?

Requires speaking very closely and directly into the microphone for optimal volume and clarity.
The included desktop tripod stand can transfer vibrations and desk noise (e.g., typing) and may require elevation for best results.
The bundled XLR cable is considered by some users to be cheap and prone to issues, often necessitating a replacement.
As a dynamic microphone, it lacks the extreme sensitivity and high-end "air" of more expensive studio condenser microphones.

Expert reviews

musicphotolife.com

18/01/2021

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Review - Music Photo Life

The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is an exceptionally versatile cardioid dynamic microphone reviewed by Chester Tan, who praises its ability to adapt to both traditional analog and modern digital workflows. Priced affordably at S$128, the microphone stands out by offering dual connectivity via digital USB-C and analog XLR ports. When connected digitally, it operates at a...Read more

sixcolors.com

26/02/2020

Review: Audio-Technica ATR-2100x microphone – Six Colors

The Audio-Technica ATR-2100x is a highly recommended, low-cost microphone priced at around $100, succeeding the discontinued ATR-2100 while maintaining its high-quality sound performance. A standout feature of this model is its excellent ability to suppress room echo and background noise in unforgiving environments, making it a superior choice over competitors like the Blue Yeti. It...Read more

podcastage.com

24/03/2020

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Dynamic Mic Review / Test

In his review on Podcastage, Bandrew Scott details the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB, emphasizing its position as a modern, versatile upgrade to the classic ATR2100. This dynamic, cardioid microphone stands out primarily for its dual-output functionality, offering both USB-C digital connectivity and an analog XLR output. This hybrid design allows beginners to plug directly into a...Read more

cameronnakashima-68595.medium.com

12/03/2023

The Best First Mic For Creatives: Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Dynamic Mic Review

The Medium review by Cameron Nakashima identifies the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB as an excellent, versatile, entry-level microphone for content creators, praising its sturdy design and dual USB-C/XLR connectivity. Its dynamic, cardioid design serves as a key advantage, effectively rejecting background noise and outperforming condenser microphones in untreated rooms. Medium ·...Read more

chrismichaelharris.com

08/11/2020

Audio-Technica ATR2100X USB Microphone Review

The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is an exceptional, budget-friendly dynamic microphone that offers immense value for entry-level podcasters and remote content creators. Priced around $100, it stands out by including essential accessories that high-end competitors like the $400 Shure SM7B omit, such as a desktop tripod stand and all necessary cables. A key benefit is its dual-output...Read more

homebrewaudio.com

16/08/2020

Comparison of Two USB Mics (ATR2100x vs Blue Yeti) Would you like a similar list for any alternative hybrid USB/XLR microphones, such as the Samson Q2...

The Home Brew Audio review compares two USB microphones in an untreated home environment, offering a direct, unedited side-by-side audio test. The evaluation highlights the microphones' performance regarding room noise, with one sample producing more ambient hiss and the other offering a cleaner, though thinner, vocal response. Home Brew Audio Both microphones share the advantages...Read more

podcast.ausha.co

11/10/2023

Unboxing, testing, and review of the Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB microphone

The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is a highly affordable, dynamic cardioid microphone praised for its versatility, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice for podcasters and content creators. A major standout feature is its dual-connectivity design, offering both USB-C and XLR outputs. This allows users to plug it directly into a computer or smartphone for a simple setup, or...Read more

lasonophonie.fr

14/11/2021

The Best USB Microphones for Podcasting (Audio-Technica ATR2100x Review)

The provided review highlights the convenience of USB microphones for podcasting, emphasizing that they are simple "plug-and-play" tools that bypass the need for complex external mixers or audio interfaces. The author advises buyers to choose microphones based on their recording environment. Condenser mics are best for quiet rooms, while dynamic mics better isolate speech from...Read more

ipdtl.com

USB Microphone and Audio Interface Reviews - Focus ATR2100x

This review breaks down the best USB microphones and audio interfaces for broadcasting and podcasting, emphasizing that all featured devices include zero-latency headphone monitoring. For USB microphones, the Rode NT-USB stands out as a well-built, aesthetically pleasing condenser mic that rivals the Blue Yeti; it includes a desk stand, a pop shield, and a helpful mix-balance...Read more

The Best First Microphone for Creatives: Audio-Technica ATR2100x - USB

The Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is lauded in a Medium review by Cameron Nakashima as a top, budget-friendly entry-level microphone featuring a durable metal, handheld design and dual USB-C/XLR outputs for versatile recording. Its dynamic, cardioid design offers excellent background noise isolation, making it superior for untreated rooms compared to condenser alternatives. Medium ·...Read more

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Review | 76 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB

Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB better than the average microphone?

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB?

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB?

Expert reviews

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