Head-to-head comparison
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs SSL 2+ MK2
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
SSL 2+ MK2
Pros
- Two headphone outs with independent mixes
- Legacy 4K analog warmth circuit
- SSL preamp brand pedigree
Watch-outs
- $299 pricier than Scarlett 2i2
- Only two preamps
- No DSP routing software
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 SSL 2+ MK2 if
You’re building around . The SSL 2+ MKII is around $299, with the Legacy 4K analog enhancement circuit that emulates the famous SSL console warmth. Two headphone outputs with independent mixes is genuinely useful for guest setups.
Also worth comparing
Frequently asked
What does Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB do better than SSL 2+ MK2?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB's standout is "USB-C is more modern than mini-USB rivals". SSL 2+ MK2 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Two headphone outs with independent mixes" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB; if the second does, pick SSL 2+ MK2.
What are the trade-offs?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB: a bit thinner-sounding than the q2u. SSL 2+ MK2: $299 pricier than scarlett 2i2. 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 SSL 2+ MK2 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 SSL 2+ MK2 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.