Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $143
Standard/Professional
$100
$401+
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Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Audio-Technica AT-2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Audio-Technica AT-2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is your secret weapon for capturing pristine audio without breaking the bank. Perfectly suited for both home studios and live performances, this low-profile pencil mic is engineered to deliver an extended frequency response that excels with acoustic guitars, overheads, pianos, and even group vocals. Its small-diaphragm design, featuring a fixed-charge back plate, ensures a smooth, natural sound, while the low-mass element guarantees an outstanding transient response for crisp, clear recordings.
One of the standout features of the AT-2021 is its cardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent off-axis rejection—ideal for isolating your sound source and reducing room noise. The microphone's build quality is equally impressive, boasting a corrosion-resistant, gold-plated XLR connector for reliable and durable performance. Plus, with a high maximum SPL and wide dynamic range, the AT-2021 is versatile enough to handle everything from delicate vocals to robust instrumentals. Whether you're a budding musician or a seasoned pro, this microphone punches well above its weight and offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.
Key Features:
- Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized, small-diaphragm condenser
- Extended frequency response ideal for acoustic guitar, overheads, and piano
- Low-mass element ensures outstanding transient response
- Cardioid polar pattern offers excellent off-axis rejection
- Corrosion-resistant, gold-plated XLR connector
- Requires phantom power for operation
Product specs
| Brand | Audio-Technica |
| Model | AT2021 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Microphones |
| Electronics | Solid State |
| Microphone Type | Small-Diaphragm Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Wired/Wireless | Wired |
FAQs
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What is the primary use of the Audio-Technica AT2021 microphone?
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The Audio-Technica AT2021 is ideal for capturing acoustic instruments, overheads, and piano due to its extended frequency response and cardioid polar pattern, which minimizes background noise.
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Does the Audio-Technica AT2021 require phantom power?
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Yes, the Audio-Technica AT2021 is a condenser microphone and requires an external phantom power source to operate effectively.
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How does the cardioid polar pattern of the AT2021 benefit recordings?
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The cardioid polar pattern of the AT2021 focuses on sound from the front, reducing ambient noise from the sides and rear, making it excellent for isolating the desired sound source.
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Is the Audio-Technica AT2021 suitable for live performances?
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While primarily designed for studio use, the AT2021 can be used in live settings where control over ambient noise is essential, thanks to its cardioid pattern.
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What type of connector does the Audio-Technica AT2021 use?
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The Audio-Technica AT2021 features a corrosion-resistant, gold-plated XLR connector, ensuring reliable signal transmission.
Videos
sillennium
5 Audio-Technica Condenser Mic Shootout: AT4041, AT4021, AT2021, ATM450, Pro37 With Scott Sill
Reviews
PROS
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Clear, rich sound without hiss or floor noise
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Excellent for recording acoustic instruments like upright bass and acoustic guitar
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Outperforms many popular mics under $100
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High build quality and durability
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Tight stereo pair performance is noteworthy
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Good off-axis rejection for minimizing unwanted noise
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Great value for budget-conscious semi-professionals
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Compact and easy to position in tight spaces
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Wide and flat frequency response compared to some dynamic mics
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Ideal for learning about small diaphragm condensers
CONS
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Sound quality surpassed by cheaper iSK mics like Pearl and Little Gem
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Can sound bright and slightly noisy without proper setup
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Audio-Technica AT-2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone.
Use cases and applications
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The AT2021 works effectively for acoustic guitar micing, especially when combined with a DI signal for improved guitar track quality.
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The AT2021 is suggested for capturing live concerts in small venues, especially when close mic placement isn't possible.
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Users recommend considering the AT2021 for concert recording when relying on small, portable setups like a briefcase studio.
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Comparisons
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The AT2021 pairs well with the AT2035 in a Mid/Side configuration for versatile recording setups.
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The AT2021 is noted for a flatter frequency response compared to the SM57, which might suit varied concert recording needs better.
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Some users find the Samson C02 mics noisy and not flattering, suggesting the AT2021 as a preferable alternative for $10 more.
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The AT2021 is favored over Behringer C2s and Samson C02s for its cleaner sound profile according to user discussions.
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User experience
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Owners appreciate the neutral sound of the AT2021, making it flexible across various applications without needing an extensive microphone collection.
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Some owners suggest that achieving the best results with the AT2021 requires thoughtful mic placement, particularly in varied live settings.
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Owners of Behringer C2s note they are serviceable but not the first choice due to noticeable self-noise, especially in studio settings.
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4.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Audio-Technica AT-2021 Cardioid Condenser Microphone, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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