What Is It?

The AT4040 is a true large diaphragm side-address condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern.   It has a frequency response from 20-20,000 hz, high SPL capability (with -10 db pad in, it can handle up to 155 db SPL), and an 80 hz bypass filter.   It uses Phantom power and comes with a custom shock mount, dust cover, and protective carrying case.

In My Opinion

This mic is Great!   It is my go-to microphone.   Other than the SM57, of course.   I own two AT4040's.   I record everything with these - anything from an acoustic guitar to an all out rock ensemble - mono or stereo - it doesn't matter.   The AT4040 can handle it all.   And although I've never dropped them, they always stand up to whatever beating I've given them.

Use on vocals.   I constantly pick the AT4040 over my 414.   When I am under a time constraint and am unable to test how different mics will sound for the situation, I'll usually pick the AT4040, because I know its going to sound good without a lot of hassle.   It doesn't posses that awesome tube powered warmth you might get from a nice SounDelux or Neuman, but those microphones are also thousands of dollars more.   This mic sounds great.

Use on Drums - Awesome!   Who needs tom mics when you have two great sounding large diaphragm microphones over the drum kit?   I've done plenty of great recordings with just two AT4040's on the drum kit.   I've never tried micing the toms close up with an AT4040 (for fear the drummer would whack the mics), but I am sure they'd sound great and handle the sound pressure levels just fine.   On the bass drum - I've only gone as far as off-axis and outside and the drum by a few inches.   I'd love to try the AT4040, and think they'd do just fine. (If anyone would like to purchase me another AT4040 to test out on the toms and bass drum, I gladly accept.   I'd use it day and night, and share my findings.

Use on other instruments - I have had great luck recording acoustic guitars, bass cabinets, djembe, didgeridoo, cello, and all types of hand percussion.

The only thing I dislike about the AT4040, is the shock mount.   The microphone is held in by a rubber band, which makes it awkward to slip in the mic.   It took me a little while before a figured a quick way to get the microphone in.   My friend has an AT4040 as well, and I know he broke the rubber band.   The new 414's shock mount definitely wins on ease of use and practicality - but then again, that shock mount is not cheap.   Even so, I've been considering purchasing two 414 mic clips for my AT4040's.

I have, and have used, better (more expensive) large diaphragm condenser microphones, than the AT4040, but I always find myself coming back to them.   They never let me down.   A solid sound in any application. - Adam

...See AT4033/CL