What is the AT4050 best used for?

It works on vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads and guitar amps. Its high SPL handling makes it a good choice for loud sources as well as detailed acoustic work.

How does it compare with the AKG C414?

Both are multi-pattern large-diaphragm condensers. The AT4050 is generally described as neutral and uncolored, while the C414 offers pad and filter switches and a slightly brighter character.

Does it need phantom power?

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

Does it have a pad or low-cut filter?

No. The AT4050 has the three polar patterns but no pad or high-pass filter switches, so loud sources rely on its high SPL capability.

What comes in the box?

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

What do buyers say about the Audio Technica AT4050 Large Diaphram Condenser Mic?

Rated 5 out of 5 from 4 ratings.

Where can I buy the Audio Technica AT4050 Large Diaphram Condenser Mic?

16 stores we checked sell it, including Fleet Pro Sound, Guitar Center, Amazon, Sweetwater, Target.

Audio-Technica

Audio Technica AT4050 Large Diaphram Condenser Mic

Q: Where is the Audio Technica AT4050 Large Diaphram Condenser Mic cheapest?

At Fleet Pro Sound, for $722.82, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$722.82at Fleet Pro SoundChecked 2 h ago

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

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What reviewers say

Engineers and owners describe the AT4050 as a dependable, neutral workhorse that flatters few sources but records most of them cleanly. Many value the three patterns and high SPL handling for the versatility across a session.

What people mention

SoundPraisedOwners call it transparent and airy with a full low end that sits well in a mix.
VersatilityPraisedThe three polar patterns let one mic cover vocals, piano, overheads and amps.
BuildPraisedReviewers describe the machined brass body as solid and road-worthy.
CharacterMixedSome say its neutral voicing adds little color and can sound plain on vocals.
SizeCriticisedA few owners note the large body is awkward to position in tight spaces.

About the Audio Technica AT4050 Large Diaphram Condenser Mic

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, guitar amps and more.

The dual large diaphragms are 2-micron-thick, vapor-deposited gold. They go through a five-step aging process so their characteristics stay constant over years of use. The dual-diaphragm capsule keeps polar pattern definition precise across the full frequency range. A precision-machined, nickel-plated brass acoustic element baffle provides element stability and sensitivity.

The microphone has transformerless circuitry, which virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed transients. Surface-mount electronics are used for consistency and reliability. It has a switchable 80 Hz hi-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 (switchable)

Frequency response

20-18,000 Hz

Low-cut filter

80 Hz, 12 dB/octave roll-off (switchable)

Pad

10 dB (nominal, switchable)

Sensitivity

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