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Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Large-diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone with Shock Mount
$299.00

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Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone
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A Versatile Condenser Mic for Studio and Live Sound!

When Audio-Technica first introduced the large diaphragm, side-address AT4040 mic, we couldn't wait to get one down to the studio to see what it could do. And we were impressed! The cardioid AT4040 is the mic to choose for accurate reproduction of acoustic guitars and percussion. You'll find a multitude of other applications for this versatile mic as well.

Audio-Technica AT4040 Microphone at a Glance:
  • A versatile condenser mic for recording, broadcast, and live sound
  • Exceptionally low distortion and excellent transient response from transformerless design
  • Full, rich sound from bottom to top
  • High SPL capacity and precision internal architecture
A versatile condenser mic for recording, broadcast, and live sound

The AT4040 was designed for professional recording and critical applications in broadcast and live sound. The versatile AT4040 will appeal to artists, engineers and producers looking for a mic that delivers a well-focused, musical sound with reliability and consistency.

Low distortion and excellent transient response from transformerless design

You'll be amazed by the AT4040's virtually nonexistent low-frequency distortion. It's a result of Audio-Technica's transformerless circuitry. This design also gives the AT4040 exceptional reproduction of high-speed transients, which makes this mic great for capturing the attack of any percussive instrument.

Full, rich sound from bottom to top

The AT4040 offers smooth, natural and extremely musical sonic character with a wide dynamic range. You can count on this mic to capture all the resonance and body from anything from a fine acoustic guitar to a male vocal. And the AT4040's two-micron-thick diaphragm provides accurate reproduction of even the most subtle sounds without sacrificing high-frequency performance.

High SPL capacity and precision internal architecture

Even though the AT4040 offers superb sensitivity, it's also able to handle extremely high SPLs - up to 145dB. A built-in 10dB pad allows you to put the AT4040 in front of sources up to 155dB, and an 80Hz highpass filter takes care of rumbles. The AT4040's nickel-plated brass element baffle has been precision-machined to provide enhanced element stability and optimal sensitivity. An open acoustical environment of the symmetrical housing assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections for the most uncolored reproduction possible. If you could have only one microphone in your studio, the AT4040 might very well be your best choice!

Audio-Technica AT4040 Microphone at a Glance:
  • Large-diaphragm cardioid condenser mic with dozens of applications
  • Externally-polarized (DC bias) true condenser design
  • Technically-advanced large diaphragm tensioned specifically to provide smooth, natural sonic characteristics
  • Exceptionally low noise, wide dynamic range and high-SPL capability for greatest versatility
  • Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients
  • Precision-machined, nickel-plated brass, acoustic element baffle provides enhanced element stability and optimal sensitivity
  • Open acoustical environment of the symmetrical housing assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections
  • State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics ensure compliance with A-T's stringent consistency and reliability standards
  • Switchable 80Hz hi-pass filter and 10dB pad
  • Includes AT8449 shock mount
  • Requires +48V phantom power
The Audio-Technica AT4040 is a mic for many applications!

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Tech Specs

  • Microphone Type: Condenser
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Diaphragm Size: 0.8" (20.4mm)
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
  • Max SPL: 145dB (155dB w/10dB Pad)
  • Output Impedance: 100 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 25.1mV/Pa (-32dB)
  • Signal to Noise Ratio: 82dB
  • Self Noise: 12dB
  • Low Cut Filter: 80Hz
  • Pads: -10dB
  • Connector: XLR
  • Color: Black
  • Power Source: 48V phantom power
  • Dimensions: 6.69" x 2.1"
  • Weight: 0.79 lbs.
  • Included Accessories: Shock Mount, Dust Cover, Carry Case
  • Manufacturer Part Number: AT4040

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

AT4040 Sounds Amazing!

I've been in the studio for the last 12hrs trying different mic's, and it was the AT4040 that really "blew me away!".
I just got this mic and was really impressed, I was recording my 2008 Bogner 2x12OS cabinet with V30's [UK] and a modified BE-100 [Dave worked on last few years] both Clean & High-Gain sounded "Amazing" extremely-in-the-room like and natural, in play-back it sounded just like the amp! Then in a large ISO room with high ceiling, amp opened up sounded like a concert!!

I was also using a SM57 along with the AT4040, and honestly they sounded Better than my Royer R-121 & SM57 combination??
There was just something about the AT4040 and the Celestion speakers / BE-100 that "Just sounds beautifully killer" through the DAW [using Studer 2" Tape Machine @ 30ips] ProTools return-feed. The session was both progressive jazz and Rock, so the AT4040 was put to the test and "Sounds Wonderful". I'm really picky with tone (as most musicians) I don't impressed with many products and many compare the AT4040 to the AKG C414 [thats a beautiful mic, I have that also] I was looking for something special, tone-wize but mostly "focused on Guitar Cabinets" and this AT4040 is a great microphone, Sweetwater's killer deal...
Music background: Musician/Producer/Engineer
Rated 5/5

Truly Professional Sound

I absolutely love this microphone for my voice. It makes it sound so natural, especially when I deliver aggressive songs making passionate rap music. Combine this baby with my Solid State Logic SSL2 with the 4k button engaged, and you have an absolutely killer sound which hardly needs any major post processing. I've only had it for ten months so I am continuing to learn and improve mixing with my AT4040 but I absolutely adore and love this microphone. 10/10
Music background: Recording Artist
Rated 5/5

Clean. Clear. Quiet.

I record nature sounds up in Michigan along a river throughout a decent amount of Spring, Summer and Fall. I've had a pair of AT-2020's and AT-2035's for a while but wanted to step-it-up a little more. So, I got a pair of the AT-4040's. Paired with my Zoom H6, they are amazing. They're clean... clear... and very quiet.

I've got nothing but good things to say about them. Audio Technica makes amazing mics, and Sweetwater has been my go-to place for all my audio recording needs.
Rated 5/5

Fantastic piece of kit for Voice-over work

As a full-time pro voice actor finding the right mic for your mouth can be a pain. This was recommended to me by an engineer buddy who tracked a few projects for me in his studio and it's been an excellent piece of kit for spoken word. My voice is a low baritone with quite a bit of natural grit and the 4040 has been an excellent kit, producing clear and full raw audio requiring very little polish for final production. I've been using the 4040 for just over 2 years now, and recently picked up a duplicate to keep in the studio in case anything should happen to the daily driver (although after 2 years the 4040 looks and functions like new). Well-built, not overly boosted in any specific frequency range, and the raw audio takes EQ very well. This beast is hands down the best bang-for-the-buck I've found, being extremely well-suited to every type of voice-over I've thrown at it, from games and animation to corporate narrations, commercials, and even trailers. I've tried pricier mics like the TLM 102 and Sennheiser MKH416 but sent them back after being unimpressed at the different for the added cost. 11/10, would highly recommend.
Music background: Pro Voice Actor
Rated 5/5

Superb for VO

This is a great mic. It's not "a great mic for the money". It's a great mic.
If you're not a voice actor then this review won't mean much to you.

First; it sounds great. It's pretty balanced across the spectrum. Nothing jumps out. It handles sibilance well. Sounds very natural with maybe a hint of warmth. Great clarity.

Second; self noise is well within pro VO requirements.

Third; built to last. No concerns about it having issues. Solid.

Fourth; the shock mount that is included is all metal. The hoop and cradle that hold the mic are all metal. Very nice.

Fifth; Versatility. it is forward enough for commercial work but not so forward that it can't be used for audiobooks.

Sixth; price. the regular price on this is crazy good considering it comes with a solid shock mount.

I own quite a few microphones. If someone was trying to buy a mic as a new talent I would recommend this first.
I like it better than the NT1 and every other mic in the price range.

It's as good as the MK4 but costs a lot less considering the shockmount for the MK4 adds considerable cost.

It sounds nearly as good as a TLM 103 and better than a TLM 102 (which isn't saying much really).

If this was the only mic that I had I could still win auditions and cut pro VO all day. If you can't sound great on this mic then it's not the microphone that's the problem.

I have nothing bad to say about this mic.
Music background: Voiceover, audiobook narrator, voice actor

Hear from a Sales Engineer

What Do Our In-house Gear Experts Think?

Stuart Niven

The Audio-Technica AT4040 is a wonderful microphone, great for a wide variety of musical sources. I have been using Audio-Technica for nearly ten years now and they have never ceased to amaze me with their flexibility and sonic fidelity. The AT 4040 gives a true representation of your source signal with no influence of its self, just an accurate, reliable and dependable high quality sound, every time you use it. Your recordings deserve this!
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