Audio-Technica announced the launch of the AT2040USB Hypercardioid Dynamic USB Microphone — the latest addition to A-T’s lineup of 20 Series content creation products. The AT2040USB microphone combines broadcast-quality performance with plug-and-play USB Type-C functionality. The microphone connects directly to the user’s computer for immediate use—no audio interface or additional cabling is required.

The mic has a high-resolution A/D converter with a sampling rate of up to 24 bits/96 kHz and its directional, hypercardioid pickup pattern isolates the user’s voice from surrounding noise, ensuring the focus remains on the spoken content. Gamers who stream and chat with followers will appreciate the isolation from common ambient noise, such as the hum of a computer fan.

The microphone’s metal body includes an integrated shock mount to attenuate unwanted noise and vibration, while its internal pop filter (a multistage foam mesh windscreen) protects against harsh spoken sounds. Additionally, its low-cut filter eliminates low-frequency sound for additional reduction of vibration and surrounding environmental noise. The AT2040USB is also equipped with a headphone jack to enable real-time monitoring of the audio (with zero latency), as well as a soft-touch mute button for quick, reliable muting at the microphone. A mix control dial adjusts the balance between the microphone audio and a computer sound source. A two-state LED indicator ring lights blue when the mic is powered on and ready to capture audio and lights red when it is muted.

The AT2040USB comes with a USB cable (USB Type-C to USB Type-A) and USB adapter (USB Type-A to USB Type-C) for plug-and-play functionality. The AT8458a shock mount (sold separately) can also be used with the microphone to further reduce any noise, shock, or vibration that might be transmitted through a mic stand, boom, or mount.