Name: Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB
Brand: Audio-Technica

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB

Overall score

7.1

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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

8.5

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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

25.4 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

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

-34.9 dBV/Pa

Connectivity

5.4

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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

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

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

7.6

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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, 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

8.0

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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

zinc alloy

Accessories

4.2

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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; mount adapter

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 ATR2500x-USB vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB better than the average microphone?

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144 kHz higher interface sample rate
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-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
18 dB SPL higher limit
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
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 ATR2500x-USB has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
36.1% lighter
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is lighter than the average microphone (366 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 ATR2500x-USB is lighter than the average microphone (366 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.366 g vs 573 g
30 mm shorter body
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is shorter than the average microphone (155 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
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
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is shorter than the average microphone (155 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.155 mm vs 185 mm
6 mm thinner body
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is thinner than the average microphone (50 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.
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
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is thinner than the average microphone (50 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.50 mm vs 56 mm
18 dB SPL higher limit
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (140 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
144 kHz higher interface sample rate
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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.
36.1% lighter
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is lighter than the average microphone (366 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
30 mm shorter body
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is shorter than the average microphone (155 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
6 mm thinner body
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is thinner than the average microphone (50 mm vs 56 mm). The average microphone has a thickness of 56 mm.

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB worse than the average microphone?

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5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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.
10 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (30 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 ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
1 older release date
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is older than the average microphone (2,019 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
October 2019.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
No gain control
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-USB does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
5,000 Hz lower high-frequency limit
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-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
No pop filter
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-USB does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
10 Hz higher low-frequency limit
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (30 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 ATR2500x-USB has a higher low-frequency cutoff than the average microphone (30 Hz vs 20 Hz). By comparison, the average microphone has a low-frequency limit of 20 Hz.30 Hz vs 20 Hz
33 mW lower headphone output power
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-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 ATR2500x-USB has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).1 vs 4.75
57.1% more expensive
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is more expensive than the average microphone (£110 vs £70).
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is more expensive than the average microphone (£110 vs £70).£110 vs £70
1 older release date
Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is older than the average microphone (2,019 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
October 2019.
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 ATR2500x-USB is older than the average microphone (2,019 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2019 vs 2020

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB?

Excellent audio quality with clear, warm sound
Robust, premium build with an all-metal body
Very convenient plug-and-play functionality with USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables included
Built-in headphone jack with volume controls for zero-latency monitoring
Excellent recording resolution up to 24-bit/192 kHz
Directional sensor effectively rejects ambient noise

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB?

The included desktop tripod is unstable and easily picks up vibrations
No physical mute button on the microphone
No gain control directly on the device; requires using the computer settings
Sensitive to handling noise and plosives; buying a separate pop filter is recommended
The cardioid pickup pattern means the mic stand must be positioned quite close to the mouth

Expert reviews

techpowerup.com

15/02/2021

Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB Microphone - TechPowerUp

According to the TechPowerUp review, the Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB microphone is a high-quality component, boasting a robust metal build, user-friendly USB-C connectivity, and excellent 24-bit/192 kHz audio performance suitable for voiceovers and streaming. It features practical on-board controls, including a headphone volume knob and a useful monitoring jack. However, the package...Read more

musicphotolife.com

31/01/2021

Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB Microphone Review

The Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is a side-address condenser microphone capable of 24-bit, 192 kHz recording, delivering a full-bodied, high-sensitivity sound ideal for controlled, close-range studio environments. It features a robust metal build, direct USB-C connectivity, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for latency-free monitoring. Conversely, the microphone lacks a physical on/off...Read more

podcastage.com

01/06/2021

Audio Technica ATR2500x-USB Review / Test - Podcastage Would you like to see a comparison of how this "x" version performs against the original ATR250...

In his detailed evaluation on Podcastage, Bandrew Scott outlines that the Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB is a highly capable and affordable side-address condenser microphone tailored for budget-conscious content creators. On the positive side, it boasts a rugged all-metal body and grille construction, alongside a modernized USB-C port and impressive recording capabilities reaching up...Read more

homerecording.info

25/02/2025

Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB Review - Homerecording.info", "Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB Test - Homerecording.info

The Audio Technica ATR2500x USB is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed for home studios and spoken word recordings, priced at €81.90. It features a 1-inch capsule with a cardioid polar pattern, a frequency response of 30 Hz to 15 kHz, and a dynamic range of 120 dB. A major strength is its built-in USB audio interface, which delivers a high resolution of 24-bit/192 kHz...Read more

Audio-Technica ATR2500x USB Microphone Review (TechPowerUp)

The TechPowerUp review highlights the Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB microphone as a high-quality, 24-bit/192 kHz USB condenser microphone suitable for streaming and recording, offering robust metal construction and convenient, driver-free operation. While delivering excellent audio performance, the microphone, when paired with the included accessories, is held back by a flimsy desktop...Read more

ipdtl.com

21/07/2026

USB Microphone and Audio Interface Reviews

The ⁠ipDTL hardware review highlights that selecting the right USB microphone or audio interface is crucial for achieving high-quality live broadcasting, podcasting, and remote studio sessions. A standout feature shared across all recommended gear is zero-latency headphone monitoring, which allows creators to seamlessly balance and track their own voices alongside incoming remote...Read more

The TechPowerUp review identifies the ATR2500x-USB microphone as the standout component in the $200 Audio-Technica Creator Pack, offering high-resolution 24-bit/192 kHz audio, a robust metal build, and excellent background noise rejection for creators. Pros include its plug-and-play functionality,, clear voice recording, and built-in headphone monitoring, making it a strong choice...Read more

Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB Review | 76 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB

Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB better than the average microphone?

Why is Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB?

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica ATR2500x-USB?

Expert reviews

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