Audio-Technica AT4050 Large-diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone

94
GEARANK

94 out of 100. Incorporating 275+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$699
Audio-Technica AT4050 Studio Condenser Microphone

Gearank High Notes

Gearank Recommendation

The appeared on our recommended list for Studio Vocal Mics from $500 to $1000 from October 2016 until April 2021 when it was out ranked by higher rated mics.

It also currently appears on our recommended list for Microphones for Recording Acoustic Guitar.

See our Current Recommendation

Overview

Considered by many retailers as one of their top sellers, the Audio Technica AT4050 is a professional studio mic that features dual gold-plated large-diaphragm condenser elements, low-noise transformerless design, and floating construction. These three features complement each other in giving the mic premium sound quality, studio quiet operation and pro-level isolation from vibration and noise.

Other notable features include its high maximum SPL of 149dB (which is remarkably high for a condenser mic) and its three polar pattern selector for added versatility.

While it is mainly used for capturing the human voice, the AT4050 is a workhorse studio mic that can be used on almost any type of instrument and sound source.

Notable artists that have used this mic include Chick Corea, Jack White, Ruby Amanfu, Kenny Garrett, Stanley Clarke and many more.

If budget allows, and you're looking for a reliable, transparent and versatile dual-diaphragm mic, then the Audio-Technica AT4050 is highly recommended.

It does vintage, raw and neutral sounding vocals best for modern pop, though a little more processing may be required to liven up your tracks.

Specifications

  • Type: Condenser
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8
  • Frequency Response: 20 to 20,000 Hz
  • Impedance: 100 ohms
  • Maximum SPL: 149 dB
  • Attenuation: -10 dB
  • Power Requirements: 48V phantom power

Polar Pattern & Frequency Response Charts

AT4050 cardioid frequency response chart
AT4050 omni frequency response chart
AT4050 figure 8 frequency response chart

About the Author

Raphael PulgarRaphael Pulgar

I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.

Comments

Should both diaphragms on the

Should both diaphragms on the AT 4050 sound the same on my mic front sounds brighter back side sounds darker