Head-to-head comparison
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs Tascam DR-40X
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
Tascam DR-40X
Pros
- Adjustable built-in mic angle
- Doubles as 2-in/2-out USB interface
- Long battery life on AA cells
Watch-outs
- Preamps noisier than Zoom H-series
- No 32-bit float (gain still matters)
- Menus feel dated; DR-40XP succeeds it
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 Tascam DR-40X if
You’re building around . The Tascam DR-40X is the legacy four-track field recorder, around $230-$300 depending on retailer. Adjustable built-in mic angle, doubles as a USB audio interface, long battery life.
Also worth comparing
Frequently asked
What does Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB do better than Tascam DR-40X?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB's standout is "USB-C is more modern than mini-USB rivals". Tascam DR-40X doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Adjustable built-in mic angle" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB; if the second does, pick Tascam DR-40X.
What are the trade-offs?
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB: a bit thinner-sounding than the q2u. Tascam DR-40X: preamps noisier than zoom h-series. 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 Tascam DR-40X 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 Tascam DR-40X for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.