Microphones
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USBvsShure SM7B
Compare Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Shure SM7B side by side. See pricing, features, and which is right for your podcast.
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
Versatile USB/XLR dynamic microphone
Full Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Review →Pricing Comparison
| Tier | Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | Shure SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79 | $439 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | Shure SM7B |
|---|---|---|
| Connection Type | USB/XLR | XLR |
| Polar Pattern | cardioid | cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz-15kHz | 50Hz-20kHz |
| Headphone Jack | ||
| Gain Control | ||
| Mute Button | ||
| Includes Stand | ||
| Max SPL | 180 |
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB Pros & Cons
Pros
- Both USB and XLR connections
- Excellent value for quality
- High-resolution USB audio
Cons
- Build quality feels basic
- Included stand is flimsy
- No onboard gain control
Shure SM7B Pros & Cons
Pros
- Warm, full broadcast sound that needs little processing
- Rejects room noise and off-axis sound well, so an untreated room is forgiving
- Internal shock isolation cuts desk and boom-arm thumps
Cons
- Needs about 60dB of clean gain, so a booster or a high-gain interface is usually required
- XLR only, so an audio interface is a separate purchase
- $439 is a lot for a first microphone
The Verdict
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB is best for:
- →Podcasters who may upgrade later
- →Those wanting connection flexibility
- →Budget-conscious creators
Shure SM7B is best for:
- →Podcasters who already have a good preamp
- →Home studios with some acoustic treatment
- →People upgrading from a USB mic
Frequently asked questions
- Which is cheaper: Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB or Shure SM7B?
- Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB costs less. Both are one-time purchases: ATR2100x-USB is $79 against $439 for SM7B.
- What is the main difference between Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Shure SM7B?
- Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB covers Headphone Jack, Mute Button, and Includes Stand, which Shure SM7B does not. Nothing on the compared feature list goes the other way.