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Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone

BH #AUAT4040 • MFR #AT4040
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Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Key Features
  • For Voice, Instruments, Drums, and Cabs
  • Cardioid Pattern Lessens Room Noise
  • Switchable -10 dB Pad Hinders Distortion
  • Low-Cut Filter Limits Bass Buildup
Boasting a large-diaphragm true condenser capsule, transformerless circuitry, and specially designed physical elements all working together to deliver clean, clear, and smooth sonic performance far outside its price class, the Audio-Technica AT4040 presents itself as a capable microphone for instrument and vocal capture in the studio, at home, or on stage. The large-diaphragm condenser capsule incorporates a cardioid polar pattern for minimal feedback and off-axis noise, a welcome trait when tracking in untreated rooms. Plus, the supplied custom shockmount helps keep extraneous handling and foot noise down.
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Audio-Technica AT4040 Overview

Proven Performance for Capturing Vocals and Instruments
Boasting a large-diaphragm true condenser capsule, transformerless circuitry, and specially designed physical elements all working together to deliver clean, clear, and smooth sonic performance far outside its price class, the Audio-Technica AT4040 presents itself as a capable microphone for instrument and vocal capture in the studio, at home, or on stage. The large-diaphragm condenser capsule incorporates a cardioid polar pattern for minimal feedback and off-axis noise, a welcome trait when tracking in untreated rooms. Plus, the supplied custom shockmount helps keep extraneous handling and foot noise down.

Engage the -10 dB pad to increase headroom and capture incredibly loud sources—drums, blaring horns, and guitar cabs—up to 155 dB SPL without distortion. When low-frequency rumble/hum or overwhelming bass invade your signal, turn on the 80 Hz high-pass filter switch to attenuate the lows without resorting to EQ. Since the AT4040 is a solid-state condenser with an XLR output, it should be mated to an XLR-equipped mic preamp capable of sending 48V phantom power. It comes with a protective storage case and a dust cover.
AT4040 Samples from Audio Test Kitchen
  • B&H is proud to be partnering with Audio Test Kitchen, the world’s most comprehensive online audio product comparison platform, to improve the resources provided to our customers shopping for the right microphone for their given application.
  • This provides you with the ability to listen to a growing selection of microphones with spoken word recordings captured in a standardized environment, with levels matched by the talented engineers at Audio Test Kitchen in its impressive reference studio.
  • Audio Test Kitchen records microphones under identical conditions so you can compare them, apples-to-apples. The source, signal chain, and level never change. The only differences you will hear are between the microphones.
For Studio and Stage
A marriage of technical precision and artistic inspiration, the AT4040 offers exceptionally low noise, wide dynamic range, and high SPL handling for optimal versatility. This ultra-consistent microphone may be used with confidence in a wide variety of studio and live miking applications, even under the stringent demands of digital recording systems.
True Condenser Capsule
The AT4040 side-address condenser microphone features an advanced large diaphragm tensioned specifically to provide smooth, natural sonic characteristics. It boasts an externally polarized (DC bias) true condenser design.
Transformerless Circuitry
The AT4040's low-noise circuitry is symmetrical and transformerless, resulting in fast transient response and clean output signals for transparent reproduction of even the most troublesome of instruments and sound effects.
Cardioid Polar Pattern
The cardioid polar pattern effectively minimizes off-axis signal, reducing residual noise caused by instruments, ambience, and background noise.
Selectable Settings
Equipped with a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and -10 dB pad, the AT4040 easily handles high sound pressure levels (up to 155 dB) and avoids the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.), room reverberation, and mechanically coupled vibrations.
Custom Shockmount
The AT4040 features the AT8449a shockmount, providing maximum protection against noise caused by shock and handling of the microphone and stand.
Features at a Glance
  • Technically advanced large diaphragm tensioned specifically to provide smooth, natural sonic characteristics
  • Externally polarized (DC bias) true condenser design
  • Exceptionally low noise, wide dynamic range, and high SPL handling
  • 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
  • Custom shockmount provides superior isolation
  • Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and -10 dB pad
  • Operates on 48V phantom power
  • XLR 3-pin output connector
UPC: 042005127955

Audio-Technica AT4040 Specs

Key Specs
Microphone Type
Large Diaphragm
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Condenser
Controls
Low Cut/HPF, Pad
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
145 dB (1 kHz, 1% THD)
155 dB (1 kHz, 1% THD, with Pad)
Analog Output
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Microphone
Microphone Type
Large Diaphragm
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Element Type
Condenser
Sound Field
Mono
Orientation
Side Address
Controls
Low Cut/HPF, Pad
Pad
-10 dB
Filter & EQ
Low-Cut Filter: 80 Hz, 12 dB/Octave
Circuitry
Solid-State
Performance
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 20 kHz
Maximum SPL
145 dB (1 kHz, 1% THD)
155 dB (1 kHz, 1% THD, with Pad)
Sensitivity
-32 dBV/Pa
Dynamic Range
133 dB (1 kHz, at Max SPL)
Equivalent Noise Level
12 dB SPL (A-Weighted)
Connectivity
Analog Output Connector
1x XLR 3-Pin Male
Power
Power Sources
Phantom Power
Operating Voltage
48 V (Phantom Power)
Physical
Color
Black
Mounting Thread Size
5/8"-27 Female
Dimensions
ø: 2.1 x L: 6.69" / ø: 5.3 x L: 16.99 cm
Weight
12.7 oz / 360 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
3.15 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
11.7 x 9.8 x 4.3"

Audio-Technica AT4040 Reviews

I LOVE this mic!

By Ariana
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2024-11-17

It makes my voice sound incredible, I love it.

Outstanding performance for price range

By Guilherme
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-09-04

I have been recording extensively with this microphone from bass/baritone male voice to female delicate voices, needless to say it's a highly detailed response for this price range, it's flattering in most tones without coloring too much your sound, it's been a joy to use and I seriously considered purchasing other models but couldn't be happier with my choice. Thanks Audio Technica and B&H for outstanding structure and in-store service that made me do a good choice for my needs

See any errors on this page?

Is a preamp required to plug this mic into the ...

Is a preamp required to plug this mic into the mic input of a soundboard supplying 48 volts phantom power?
Asked by: Daniel
Any microphone input would have a preamp by default. Without a preamp, the input would only accept line signals. Any mixer that supplies 48V phantom power will be compatible with the Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone.
Answered by: Alex D
Date published: 2025-01-01

Would this be a good mic for recording a pipe ...

Would this be a good mic for recording a pipe organ in a church sanctuary? If not this mic, can anyone suggest a better one?
Asked by: Daniel
Yes, the Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone can be used to record a pipe organ.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2024-12-29

Specs say it needs 48 volts of phantom power. ...

Specs say it needs 48 volts of phantom power. What does phantom power mean and what do I need to connect it to a PC computer?
Asked by: Michael
Phantom power refers to the specific voltage a condenser microphone such as the Audio-Technica AT4040 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone requires from its XLR input connection for proper use and operation. To use the AT4040 with a PC, a USB audio interface offering phantom power from an XLR input connection is required. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 2x2 USB Audio Interface (BH #FOSCARSOLO3G) is an example of an interface that could be used in the scenario described: https://bhpho.to/3gmNonm
Answered by: Matt Z
Date published: 2023-06-25

I presume that this was not designed for use with ...

I presume that this was not designed for use with a Mac, but if purchased, what additional product would be needed to have the ability to input the sound from this combo into a computer?
Asked by: Pavel
An audio interface, such as the Solid State Logic SSL 2+ Desktop 2x4 USB Type-C Audio/MIDI Interface, BH #SOSSL2P would compliment this kit, by providing a high quality, analog to digital transfer into an Apple computer.
Answered by: Steven M
Date published: 2021-04-05
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