Head-to-head comparison
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs Heil PR40
Two of the equipment tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
Pros
- USB-C is more modern than mini-USB rivals
- 24-bit/192kHz USB output
- Decent rejection for a budget dynamic
Watch-outs
- A bit thinner-sounding than the Q2U
- No boom arm or shock mount included
- ~$70-80 puts it just above Q2U
Heil PR40
Pros
- Wider frequency response than typical dynamic
- Strong rear noise rejection
- Warm low end, articulate mids
Watch-outs
- Shock mount (PRSM) sold separately
- Less common than SM7B
- Needs clean preamp gain
Which one should you pick?
Pick Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB if
You’re building around . Audio-Technica's answer to the Samson Q2U. USB-C and XLR dual outputs, around $70-80.
Pick Heil PR40 if
You’re building around . The Heil PR40 is a wider-response dynamic than typical, with rear noise rejection that punches above its price. Currently around $339-$379.
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Frequently asked
What does Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB do better than Heil PR40?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB's standout is "USB-C is more modern than mini-USB rivals". Heil PR40 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Wider frequency response than typical dynamic" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB; if the second does, pick Heil PR40.
What are the trade-offs?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB: a bit thinner-sounding than the q2u. Heil PR40: shock mount (prsm) sold separately. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Heil PR40 together?
Both are equipment tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB for one show or episode type and Heil PR40 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.