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ATR2100 Vs AT2005: Which Audio Technica Mic Is For You?

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ATR2100 Vs AT2005

You are probably here because you are trying to decide between getting the Audio Technica AT2005 and the Audio Technica ATR2100. What you really need is to best understand both of them and pick which one is best for what you need. 

Let’s Talk

atr2100 vs at2005

When you are podcasting, one of the most annoying things you will have to deal with is ambient sounds and reverberation.

Everyone wants to record podcasts without any ambient noises, or as little as possible, penetrating from the background. 

Getting the best possible mic setup, one that gives direct audio is the answer to your prayers. 

This is what Audio Technica has done with both the models we are looking at here.

They shield you from any surrounding noise making your podcasts cleaner and without all that background clutter (also seem ‘Audacity Noise Reduction – How To Remove Background Noise‘). 

Now, is there a better choice? Honestly, not really… It kind of depends on what you are looking for.

There is something for everyone, there is no better or worse, so, instead we will just talk you through these two microphone setups

What Is ATR2100 

This model came out in 2011. It was made to try and serve the growing podcasting scene, and those in it who did not have much knowledge around sound engineers but still wanted their audience to hear them clearly and in a professional manner. 

It is dynamic, with a cardioid polar pattern.

It has a frequency response of 50Hz to 15 kHz, and it has a USB output option allowing you to connect directly to your computer, as well as having an XLR output option that gives you live sound quality application properties (also see, ‘Best XLR Podcasting Mics‘). 

It is a dynamic mic, so it rejects more background noise, more than other microphones, such as condensers. This kills any worry about picking up keyboard sounds, mouse clicks, and more.

What Is The Best Dynamic Microphone for Vocals

If you use it as an XLR mic, you do not even need to engage in any phantom power because it is dynamic. However, when it acts as a USB mic, it can record at 16 bit depth, at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. 

It also has a 3.5 mm jack at the bottom that lets you directly monitor your recording as well.

Once you have set it up, and connected it to your computer’s USB port, you just plug headphones into the headphone jack on its base. Then as you talk into the mic, you can hear yourself and adjust your voice accordingly. Saving on editing time! 

Let’s not forget how you can adjust volume as well. 

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What Is At2005?

Now, the At2005. This mic is a cardioid mic that gives you high-quality articulation, and intelligibility which is ideal for home studio recording, podcasts, field recording, stage use, and voice-over work. 

Its cardioid polar pattern reduces any pick up of audio from the rear or sides, allowing for a more isolated sound, stopping ambient noise. 

It is a digital/analog mic which has USB and XLR cable option, so you can connect this in any way you wish. It has a 3.5 mm jack just like the 2100. It also gives zero-latency monitoring for your headphones and allows for audio playback from your PC.

Its mic allows 16 bit depth, has a frequency response of 50Hz to 15,000Hz, and a sampling rate of 44.1kHz/48kHz. 

It also comes in a very stylish leather carry case, including everything you need, even a tripod stand, documentation, and a mic clip to hold the mic neatly in place.

What is even better about this mic, however, is that it is actually decently affordable with more for a good price and does not sacrifice much in the way of quality for it. So, even on a budget you can still podcast your heart out. 

It also has a fully metal construction, with a metal grill and feels sturdy, in spite of only being a sound 0.6 lbs. 

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Notes On USB Mics Vs. XLR Mics

USB microphones are an all-in-one convenience for recording, podcasting, and streaming that doesn’t skimp on sound quality. It is the ideal mic for capturing professional-sounding vocals, instruments, home studio recordings, and more.

A USB microphone has a cardioid pick up pattern which isolates the primary sound source while minimizing unnecessary noise and ambient sounds from entering the microphone. This feature ensures that you get clear recordings without any interference from outside sources.

Additionally, the USB microphone also features a low-noise preamp with adjustable gain control so you can easily customize your settings as needed to get optimal sound quality output (also see, ‘Can You Use A USB Mic With An Audio Interface‘).

With its exceptional audio capture capabilities, stunning look and value for money, this USB microphone is the perfect choice for any recording or live stream.

ALSO SEE: USB Mic vs XLR

XLR mics, on the other hand, are great for live performances and studio recording, as they deliver superior sound quality compared to USB mics (also see, ‘XLR Interfaces‘).

XLR mics have a wide frequency response range of 20Hz-20kHz and can pick up detailed nuances in sound sources. They also have an adjustable gain control knob which allows you to easily customize the level of amplification according to your preferences.

Additionally, they come with various features such as a noise reduction switch and low cut filter that help reduce any unwanted background noise or hissing sounds that could be picked up by the mic.

XLR mics are more expensive than USB microphones but for those looking for professional quality recordings, XLR microphones are definitely worth the investment.

Overall, USB microphones provide convenience when it comes to recording audio at home or in a studio, while XLR mics provide superior sound quality for both live performances and recordings. Ultimately, your choice will come down to what type of recording you’re working on and whether you need portability or the highest level of sound quality.

How Are These Audio Technica Microphones Similar?

Both the ATR2100 and the AT2005 are great mics, with similar, if not many of the same features. Both of these dynamic cardioid microphones reject any noise clutter in the background, as well as reverbs and ambient noise. 

Both of these also have USB and XLR outputs which is ideal for podcasters. Especially those starting out who just want to use a PC to start up, but maybe one day want to upgrade to a more fancy, high-tech set-up. 

They also both have a headphone back, and both come with an easy on and off switch. So no one hears you munching on that bag of chips if you do a live broadcast and decide to take a break.

How Are They Different?

As for differences, the differences are super subtle. You could realistically swap one for another and barely even notice, and they are so alike. 

However, they are not identical. They are different colors, with the AT2005 being a matte black, whereas the ATR2100 is a metallic silver.

They also have different warranties. With the ATR2100 you get a lifetime end-user warranty, but the AT2005 only gives you a one-year limited end-user warranty. 

Tests were also carried out on both of these and the ATR2100 was shown to be more sensitive to low, soft, and subtle sounds in comparison to the AT2005 model. 

So, while they are both very good at blocking out noise, the ATR2100 is a little more subtle to subtle sounds at a low pitch than you would find with the AT2005.

What Do We Think?

What is our view? There is no one better than the other on these two mics. Both have pros and cons, really, even though they are both very alike. If you are a person for a good warranty, and want a trendy metallic-colored, overall great mic, the ATR2100 is your best choice. 

However, if there is a lot of low-frequency subtle background noise in your recording room, and you want a more corporate matte black, maybe choose the AT2005?

Matt Brook

With a background in Journalism and years of experience in the industry, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge to the WiredClip team.

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