Pricing and availability
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Reviews
Price
Average Price: $686
High-end/Boutique
$100
$401+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Audio-Technica AT4050". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Audio-Technica AT4050 Condenser Microphone, a versatile and high-performing asset to both studio and live recording setups. With its multipattern feature offering three polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight, it provides flexibility to cater to diverse recording needs. Its transformerless circuitry ensures low-frequency distortion is virtually non-existent, while high-speed transients are reproduced authentically. Enjoy the crystal-clear and transparent highs and mids, complemented by a robust, thick low-end, bringing an unmatched tonal quality that is perfect for vocals, amps, strings, drum overheads and more.
Key Features:
- Multipattern microphone with three polar patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-of-eight
- Transformerless circuitry for minimal low-frequency distortion and faithful reproduction of high-speed transients
- 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10dB pad
- Exceptionally clear and transparent highs and mids
- Rich, thick low-end delivering superior tonal quality
- Ideal for both studio and live circumstances, mic'ing vocals, amps, strings, drum overheads and more.
Owner's manual
Audio-Technica AT4050 User ManualProduct specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8 |
| Diaphragm Size | 0.84" (21.4mm) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-18kHz |
| Max SPL | 149dB (159dB w/10dB Pad) |
| Output Impedance | 100 ohms |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 77dB |
| Self Noise | 17dB |
| Low Cut Filter | 80Hz (-12dB/octave) |
| Pads | -10dB |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 1.12 lbs. |
| Included Accessories | Shock Mount, Dust Cover, Carry Case |
FAQs
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What polar patterns does the Audio-Technica AT4050 offer?
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The Audio-Technica AT4050 features three polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8, making it versatile for different recording environments and applications.
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Does the Audio-Technica AT4050 require phantom power?
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Yes, the AT4050 requires 48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for most condenser microphones.
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Is the Audio-Technica AT4050 suitable for recording vocals?
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The AT4050 is excellent for recording vocals due to its wide frequency response and multiple polar patterns, offering clarity and detail in vocal recordings.
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What is the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) the AT4050 can handle?
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The Audio-Technica AT4050 can handle a maximum SPL of 149dB, or 159dB with the -10dB pad engaged, making it suitable for loud sound sources.
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What accessories are included with the Audio-Technica AT4050?
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The AT4050 comes with a shock mount, dust cover, and carry case, providing protection and convenience for studio or location recording.
Videos
Podcastage
Audio-Technica AT4040 Condenser Mic Review / Test
Audio-Technica AT4040 Condenser Mic Review / Test
Podcastage
Neumann U87 vs AT4050 Mic Shootout
Sean Daniel
Best Microphone for Rap Vocals? Audio-Technica AT4040 XLR Review
Kelli
Audio Technica AT4050 Microphone Demo
Sean Daniel
Audio Technica AT 4050 Condenser Microphone Overview - Sweetwater Sound
Sweetwater
Audio-Technica AT4050 Condenser Mic - Audio Techncia AT4050
American Musical Supply
Audio-Technica AT4050 vs Audio-Technica AT4047 comparison mic shootout
Tom Szy Music
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile, comparable to high-end models like C414 or U87
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Excellent for both vocals and instruments (piano, guitar, drums)
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Durable, with some users reporting over 20 years of use
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Offers clean, true-to-source sound capture
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Features multiple polar patterns for flexibility in recording
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High SPL handling, suitable for loud sources
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Minimal EQ or processing needed
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Provides warm, clear, and rich vocals
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Low noise and transformerless design for clean recordings
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Good value for the price, offering high-end features affordably
CONS
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Jack of all trades, master of none; may not excel in every application
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Some users find it not great on vocals without specific preamps
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Can sound harsh with certain preamps due to transformerless design
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Might stop producing sound, requiring warranty check
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Audio-Technica AT4050.
Comparisons
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Users compared the AT4050 to the CM87S, noting a flatter low-end response on the CM87S and a brighter, hyped sound depending on the source.
Source -
Owners frequently find the AT4050 more versatile and cost-effective than the C414, often opting for a used pair of AT4050s over a single C414 for broader utility.
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Some prefer the AT4050 over the C414 for its versatility, although others find the C414's modern, bright sound more detailed for certain applications.
Source
Features and functionality
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The AT4050 is praised for its off-axis rejection in cardioid mode, making it suitable for recording in rooms with suboptimal acoustics.
Source
User experience
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Some users experienced a marked improvement in the AT4050's sound quality after upgrading preamps from stock units to higher-end models like the Mackie Onyx 800R.
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A user noted that they find the AT4050 to be less flattering in the high frequencies compared to the AT4047, which they preferred.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The AT4050 is described as a versatile mic that was used successfully in omni mode for recording both acoustic guitar and vocals on a single track.
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The AT4050 is recommended for users seeking a versatile single mic, particularly if they are limited to just one microphone for various recording situations.
Source
Value and pricing
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A used AT4050/CM5 was mistakenly delivered instead of a new AT4050, highlighting potential issues with purchasing from third-party sellers on platforms like Amazon.
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The AT4050 is highlighted as a top choice under $1000, offering significant savings compared to higher-priced alternatives like the C414 without compromising on versatility.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 15 Ratings
Nice Microphone
Good Mic. My Audio Technica records great rap vocals. It gives off a "Grity Sound". Specially when "stacking Vocals" or doubling up. Might not work for you if you are looking for a smooth Mellow sound. It records great percussions and live acoustic guitars. The Audio Technica Utilizes a low-noise transformerless design and multiple polar patterns, the AT4050 is ideal for use in the most demanding recording situations. It uses dual gold-plated, aged, large-diaphragm condenser elements for extended frequency response. Floating construction elements provide isolation from noise and vibration.
41029
I ahd a 4040 that was really top, but the articulation was fantastic for some singing and especially useful for voiceover or hiphop
160
Good mic for voice and instruments
This is a great mic for the price. About $600, which is still expensive but you're getting one of the best entry level condensers at this price. It will pick up every sound in the room and there's not much eq or processing needed, as far as recording volume is concerned. Knocked off a star because I can't figure out why my mic isn't producing sound anymore. Might have to check with warranty.
41029
the entire 40 series is so underrated... I like the 4047 a lot as it really holds up against older AKG 414s, at least in their cardioid mode. I don't know why you don't see more 40s in studio mic lockers.
Artist usage
Add artist
For the February 1999 volume of the German music magazine "Gitarre & Bass" (Guitar and Bass), journalist Stephan Neumeier had the chance to analyze Clapton's equipment for the Pilgrim tour. According to Clapton's guitar tech Lee Dickson, Clapton has been using this microphone to record the guitar sound from his twin amplifiers on stage.
In a Thomann interview, Mick Thomson mentions using the Audio-Technica AT4050 to record his guitar in an isolation cabinet.
A Record Plant Staff Engineer- Jun Ishizeki- stated that he used an AT4050 for most of Kanye's vocals.
“The AT4050 is what I used for most of Kanye’s vocals,” says Record Plant Staff Engineer Jun Ishizeki. “It has a slight but very effective bump in the upper-midrange that’s right where many engineers start to push, so it really enhances the vocal at that critical point. At the same time, the AT4050 is a very flat-response microphone, so you’re always getting the actual sound of the singer, not the curve of the microphone itself. I love that combination.”
A pair was used for "some acoustic guitar" on Brand New Day, as stated by recording engineer Simon Osborne in this October 1, 1999 Audio Media interview transcribed on Sting's official website.
Simon also had an exciting time experimenting at Sting's Italian villa. "I got into using M&S miking a bit on this album," he says, "using a pair of Audio Technica 4050s in the chapel. It's got brilliant acoustics. We recorded some acoustic guitar there, so I did M&S recording of the ambience. I experimented a lot to get the right balance between the close mic and the ambient mics. Real reverb was just lovely; it really makes you realise what you're missing when you use digital reverbs!"
In this Instagram photo posted by Audio-Technica, Joe Perry can be seen performing live and playing guitar for Aerosmith while standing in front of his guitar amps. The post explains that Perry was one of the first musicians to use studio microphones to mic guitar amplifiers during live performances. They go on to say, "Pictured here is Joe’s setup which included AT4050s on his guitar cabinets."
"AT4050s" in this case refers to multiple Audio-Technica AT4050 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphones.
The band is also employing a wide selection of A-T hard-wired microphones, including the AT4050 on guitars and overheads; AT4047 on guitar cabinets; AE2500 on kick; ATM350 on rack and floor tom; ATM450 on hi-hat; AE5100 on ride; and AT835STs for audience.
Used on the acoustic guitar for Sleep Through the Static, as stated by mix engineer Robert Carranza in this February 1, 2008 Mix Online interview.
On the guitar is an Audio-Technica 4050.
This Audio Technica AT4050 is owned by Deryck Whibley Of Sum 41
As can be seen at his official Instagram account (about making some music) you can see him using this item in the picture / video.
In videos of her home studio Charli can be seen using an Audio Technica AT4050.
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Used for demo production at home studio.
Used as overheads on the iNNOCENCE + eXPERIENCE tour.
“We have a fairly traditional mic setup for Larry [Mullen’s] drums, from Shure 421s on toms, to 57s on top and bottom snare, and Audio-Technica 4050s for overheads,” says monitor engineer CJ Eiriksson. “We keep the mics fairly close and tight on everything, which helps keep the arena bleed out of drums as much as possible.
Album Usage
The Audio-Technica AT4050 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Audio-Technica AT4050, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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