Is the AT4050 good for vocals?

Yes. Its cardioid pattern and transparent mids suit lead and backing vocals. Some singers prefer a more colored mic, so try it against a tube condenser if you want warmth.

Can it handle loud sources like drums and guitar amps?

Yes. It is built for high SPL and is commonly used on drum overheads, snare and guitar cabinets without distortion.

What is the difference between the three polar patterns?

Cardioid picks up mainly from the front, omnidirectional picks up all around, and figure-of-eight picks up front and back while rejecting the sides. That covers most studio and live jobs.

Does it need phantom power?

Yes. It is an externally polarized condenser and needs 48V phantom power from your preamp or interface.

How does it compare with the AKG C414?

Both are multi-pattern large-diaphragm condensers. The AT4050 is often described as neutral and rugged, while the C414 adds pad and filter switches and a slightly brighter voicing.

What comes in the box?

The mic ships with a shock mount and a protective case. Check the listing for the exact accessories included.

What do buyers say about the Audio-Technica AT4050 Large Diaphragm Condenser?

Rated 5 out of 5 from 2 ratings.

Where can I buy the Audio-Technica AT4050 Large Diaphragm Condenser?

16 stores we checked sell it, including Blackwater Audio, Guitar Center, Amazon, Sweetwater, Target.

Audio-Technica AT4050 Large Diaphragm Condenser

Q: Where is the Audio-Technica AT4050 Large Diaphragm Condenser cheapest?

At Blackwater Audio, for $699.00, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$699.00at Blackwater AudioChecked 2 h ago

Compared across 16 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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What reviewers say

Owners and reviewers treat the AT4050 as a dependable studio workhorse. They praise its clean, honest sound and its ability to take loud sources, and most consider it a strong value among multi-pattern condensers. Some find it plain compared with character mics.

What people mention

SoundPraisedReviewers describe a transparent, airy top with a full low end that works on many sources.
VersatilityPraisedOwners like having cardioid, omni and figure-of-eight in a single mic.
High SPLPraisedUsers report it stays clean on drum overheads and loud guitar amps.
BuildPraisedThe machined brass body and baffle are called sturdy and long-lasting.
CharacterMixedSome say its neutral sound adds little color compared with character mics.
FeaturesCriticisedReviewers note the lack of a pad and low-cut filter found on some rivals.

About the Audio-Technica AT4050 Large Diaphragm Condenser

The Audio-Technica AT4050 is a large-diaphragm, side-address, externally polarized condenser microphone with three switchable polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid and figure-of-eight. It is made for professional recording, broadcast and sound reinforcement. It can be used in the studio and on live sound productions with vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads and guitar amps.

The dual-diaphragm capsule keeps the polar pattern precisely defined across the full frequency range. The diaphragms are 2 microns thick and vapor-deposited with gold. They go through a five-step aging process so their characteristics stay constant over years of use. A precision-machined, nickel-plated brass baffle holds the acoustic element steady.

The transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and handles high-speed transients. Surface-mount electronics support consistent, reliable manufacturing. The microphone has a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and a 10 dB pad. A custom shock mount is included for isolation.

Type

Externally polarized (DC bias) condenser, large diaphragm, side-address

Polar patterns

Cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-of-eight

Frequency response

20-18,000 Hz

Low-cut filter

80 Hz, 12 dB/octave roll-off

Sensitivity

-36 dB (15.8 mV), re 1V at 1 Pa (open circuit)

Impedance

100 ohms