Audio-Technica AT2005USB Cardioid Dynamic USB/XLR Microphone

For live performance, podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover, the Audio-Technica AT2005USB is a cardioid dynamic handheld microphone. It has a USB output for recording on a computer and an XLR output for a sound system.

Plugged into a computer’s USB port, it works with Mac and Windows recording software, and its built-in analog-to-digital converter records at 16-bit, 44.1 or 48 kHz. A blue LED shows when it is receiving USB power. For live sound, the XLR output connects to a mixer’s standard microphone input, and the on/off switch works in both USB and XLR operation.

A 3.5 mm (1/8-inch) stereo headphone jack on the bottom of the microphone lets you monitor yourself directly while recording over USB. An up/down dial on the bottom sets the headphone volume without changing the microphone level.

The dynamic element has a low-mass diaphragm, and the cardioid pattern reduces pickup of sound from the sides and rear. A multi-stage grille protects against plosives and sibilance without dulling high-frequency clarity, and the metal body is built to last. A tripod desk stand with folding legs comes with it, along with a pivoting stand clamp that fits the tripod or any stand with 5/8″-27 threads. A 2 m (6.6 ft) mini USB cable and a 3 m (9.8 ft) XLR cable are included.

Features

• Cardioid dynamic handheld microphone with USB and XLR outputs
• USB output for recording on a Mac or Windows computer
• XLR output for a sound system’s microphone input
• 16-bit, 44.1/48 kHz analog-to-digital converter
• 3.5 mm headphone jack with volume control for direct monitoring
• On/off switch works in USB and XLR operation
• Multi-stage grille protects against plosives and sibilance
• Durable metal construction
• Tripod desk stand, stand clamp, USB cable, and XLR cable included