Head-to-head comparison
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs Mackie DLZ Creator
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
Mackie DLZ Creator
Pros
- Large 10.1" touchscreen interface
- Assistive setup wizard helps beginners
- Mix Agent AI processing per channel
Watch-outs
- ~$800 pricier than Rodecaster Pro II
- Newer ecosystem, fewer YouTube guides
- Fewer included sound effects than Rodecaster
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 Mackie DLZ Creator if
You’re building around . The Mackie DLZ Creator is around $799.99 — direct competitor to the Rodecaster Pro II in the all-in-one podcast console category.
Also worth comparing
Frequently asked
What does Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB do better than Mackie DLZ Creator?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB's standout is "USB-C is more modern than mini-USB rivals". Mackie DLZ Creator doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Large 10.1" touchscreen interface" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB; if the second does, pick Mackie DLZ Creator.
What are the trade-offs?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB: a bit thinner-sounding than the q2u. Mackie DLZ Creator: ~$800 pricier than rodecaster pro ii. 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 Mackie DLZ Creator 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 Mackie DLZ Creator for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.