Audio-Technica AT4021

The AT4021 is a versatile workhorse, but it truly shines on acoustic instruments like acoustic guitar, piano, strings, and percussion. Its flat frequency response and ability to handle high sound pressure levels make it excellent for capturing the natural detail of these sources without coloring the sound.

Yes, the AT4021 is a condenser microphone, so it requires 48V phantom power to function. You will need an audio interface, mixer, or preamp that can supply this power via the XLR connection.

The cardioid pattern is directional, meaning it primarily picks up sound from the front while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This is ideal for isolating a specific instrument in a busy studio or live environment, helping you reduce bleed from other sound sources.

Use the 80 Hz hi-pass filter to cut out unwanted low-end rumble, such as stage vibrations or handling noise. The 10 dB pad is useful when recording very loud sources, like drums or guitar amps, to prevent the microphone's signal from clipping or distorting your preamp.

Yes, it is well-suited for delicate sources. It features low self-noise, which ensures that your recordings remain clean and free of hiss, even when you are capturing subtle details or quiet performances.