Detail 01
145 dB max SPL
Handles loud acoustic sources without breaking up, but with no pad you may need to trim gain at the preamp.
Product detailSKU #1273887988642
Audio-TechnicaAT4041 Cardioid Condenser Microphone -
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
A cardioid condenser for acoustic instruments and overheads. Similar SPL handling to the AT4021 but no pad and a hotter, cleaner output.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Drum overheads and room mics on a kit
- Acoustic guitar, mandolin and other stringed instruments
- Piano, choir and small acoustic ensembles
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Sources needing a pad — there's no attenuation switch here
- Anyone without 48V phantom power available
- Players wanting a warm, colored vocal mic
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
-36 dB sensitivity
Slightly lower output than the AT4021, so budget a bit more preamp gain on quiet sources.
Detail 03
100 ohms impedance
Low source impedance drives long cable runs cleanly, useful for stage and studio-to-control-room runs.
Detail 04
80 Hz roll-off, 12 dB/octave
Tames stage rumble and low-end buildup on overheads without touching the cymbal or string detail above it.
Detail 05
121 dB dynamic range
Narrower window than the AT4021's 132 dB. Fine for acoustic work, less so for extremes.
Detail 06
6.28 in long, 0.83 in diameter
Long and slim. Reaches over a kit on a boom without a bulky body fighting for space.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01No pad switch — hot sources have to be handled at the preamp instead
- 02Includes AT8405A clamp, AT8159 windscreen and carry case; no cable or stand
- 03Buy two if you want a matched overhead or stereo pair
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Is this good for drum overheads?
Yes. The cardioid pattern, 145 dB SPL ceiling and 80 Hz roll-off suit overhead work. Buy a pair for stereo.
02AT4041 or AT4021 for acoustic guitar?
Either works. The AT4021 adds a 10 dB pad and wider dynamic range; the AT4041 has slightly lower output and a longer, slimmer body.
03Does it need phantom power?
Yes, 48V DC at roughly 3.2 mA. Any interface or mixer with a working phantom switch will run it.
04Can I use it live?
Yes. The 100-ohm output drives long cable runs, and the 80 Hz roll-off helps with stage rumble.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
4 detailsSound
- Polar Pattern
- Cardioid
- Impedance
- 100 ohms
- Low Frequency Roll Off
- 80Hz, 12dB/Octave
- Frequency Response
- 20Hz–20kHz
1 detailsPickups & controls
- Open Circuit Sensitivity
- -36dB (15.8 mV), Re 1V at 1 Pa
3 detailsConnections & power
- Output Connector
- Integral 3-pin XLRM-Type
- Phantom Power Requirements
- 48V DC, 3.2 mA Typical
- Maximum Input Sound Level
- 145dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.
2 detailsSize & weight
- Weight
- 4.2
- Dimensions
- 6.28 inch (159.5 mm) Long, 0.83 inch (21 mm) body diameter
2 detailsIn the box
- Audio Technica Case
- Style S1
- Case or Gig Bag
- Style S1
3 detailsOther
- Signal to Noise Ratio
- 70dB, 1kHz at 1 Pa
- Accessories Furnished
- AT8405A stand clamp for 5/8 inch-27 threaded stands; AT8159 windscreen; protective carrying case
- Dynamic Range Typical
- 121dB, 1kHz at max SPL
