Best ATR2100 Alternatives in 2025 (All budgets)
The Audio-Technica ATR2100 has been a staple in the podcasting and streaming world for years, beloved for its versatility, audio quality, and affordability. However, with the microphone landscape constantly evolving, many content creators seek alternatives offering different features, improved sound profiles, or better value.
Why Consider an ATR2100 Alternative?
Before diving into alternatives, it’s worth understanding why you might want to look beyond the ATR2100:
- Discontinued Status: Audio-Technica has officially discontinued the original ATR2100, replacing it with the ATR2100x-USB.
- Feature Expansion: Newer microphones often offer additional features like higher bit rates, better shock mounting, or improved connectivity options.
- Sound Profile Preferences: The ATR2100’s sound signature isn’t ideal for every voice or application.
- Budget Considerations: There are now competitive options at both lower and higher price points.
- Specific Use Cases: Specialized recording scenarios may benefit from microphones designed with particular attributes.
Direct Competitors: Similar Price Range ($80-120)
1. Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
The official successor
Price: $99
The ATR2100x-USB is Audio-Technica’s direct replacement for the ATR2100, maintaining the core features while adding modern improvements.
Key Features:
- USB-C connectivity (vs. the original’s mini-USB)
- 24-bit/192kHz capability (upgraded from 16-bit/48kHz)
- Same dynamic cardioid capsule design
- Dual XLR/USB connectivity
- Headphone monitoring jack
Who Should Choose This: If you loved the original ATR2100 but want slightly improved specs and modern connectivity, this is your most direct option.
2. Samson Q2U
The value champion
Price: $69-89 (frequently on sale)
The Samson Q2U has long been considered the ATR2100’s closest competitor, offering remarkably similar features at a slightly lower price point.
Key Features:
- Dual XLR/USB connectivity
- Dynamic cardioid pickup pattern
- Headphone monitoring jack
- Includes desktop stand and windscreen
- Slightly warmer sound profile than the ATR2100
Who Should Choose This: Budget-conscious creators who want dual-connection flexibility without compromising significantly on quality.
3. Rode PodMic
The broadcast quality option
Price: $99
While lacking USB connectivity, the Rode PodMic has become incredibly popular for those ready to invest in an audio interface.
Key Features:
- XLR-only connectivity
- Purpose-built for podcasting with internal pop filter
- Robust metal construction
- Integrated shock mounting
- Rich, broadcast-quality sound
Who Should Choose This: Content creators who already have an audio interface and want a microphone with a more professional sound profile and build quality.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives ($40-75)
1. Maono AU-PM421
The budget powerhouse
Price: $59-69
Maono has emerged as a strong competitor in the affordable microphone space, and the AU-PM421 offers impressive performance for its price.
Key Features:
- USB-C and XLR connectivity
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Zero-latency monitoring
- Plug-and-play setup
- Solid metal construction
Who Should Choose This: Entry-level podcasters and streamers looking for a capable dual-connection microphone at a lower price point.
2. Fifine K669B
The ultra-budget option
Price: $35-45
For those on the tightest budgets who still need decent audio quality, the Fifine K669B represents exceptional value.
Key Features:
- USB-only connectivity
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Simple plug-and-play operation
- Sturdy metal construction
- Surprisingly good sound for the price
Who Should Choose This: Beginners, casual content creators, or those needing a backup microphone without breaking the bank.
3. JLab Talk
The feature-packed budget mic
Price: $75
The JLab Talk offers multiple pickup patterns at a price point where most microphones only provide one.
Key Features:
- USB-C connectivity
- Four pickup patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, stereo, bidirectional)
- Built-in tripod stand with adjustable height
- RGB indicators
- 96kHz/24-bit resolution
Who Should Choose This: Content creators who need versatility for different recording scenarios without investing in multiple microphones.
Premium Upgrades ($130-250)
1. Shure MV7
The prosumer hybrid
Price: $249
The Shure MV7 bridges the gap between USB convenience and XLR professional quality, inspired by the legendary SM7B.
Key Features:
- Simultaneous XLR and USB connectivity
- Touch panel controls
- Auto-level mode for easy setup
- ShurePlus MOTIV app for advanced customization
- Professional-grade dynamic capsule
Who Should Choose This: Serious content creators looking for broadcast-quality sound with the flexibility of both USB and XLR connections.
2. Rode PodMic USB
The upgraded all-in-one
Price: $189
Building on the success of the original PodMic, the USB version adds direct computer connectivity without sacrificing quality.
Key Features:
- USB-C and XLR connections
- Integrated A/D converter
- Zero-latency monitoring
- Built-in DSP for compression and processing
- Same excellent broadcast-quality capsule as the original
Who Should Choose This: Content creators who want the PodMic sound with added versatility and don’t want to purchase a separate audio interface.
3. Elgato Wave:3
The streamer’s choice
Price: $149
Specifically designed for streamers, the Wave:3 offers tight integration with streaming software and excellent audio processing.
Key Features:
- USB-C connectivity
- Proprietary Clipguard technology to prevent distortion
- Wave Link software for mixing multiple audio sources
- Capacitive mute touch sensor
- Sleek, stream-friendly design
Who Should Choose This: Streamers who want tight software integration, clean aesthetics, and protection against audio clipping during enthusiastic gaming moments.
XLR-Only Alternatives (Requiring Audio Interface)
1. Shure SM58
The industry standard
Price: $99
The legendary SM58 has been the go-to vocal microphone for performers worldwide for decades, offering bombproof reliability.
Key Features:
- Cardioid dynamic capsule
- Virtually indestructible build quality
- Excellent handling noise rejection
- Built-in spherical wind and pop filter
- Consistent on-axis sound
Who Should Choose This: Content creators looking for a professional, road-tested microphone that will last for decades.
2. Electro-Voice RE20
The broadcast legend
Price: $449
While significantly more expensive, the RE20 represents the gold standard in broadcast microphones.
Key Features:
- Variable-D technology to minimize proximity effect
- Large diaphragm dynamic element
- Internal pop filter
- Heavy-duty internal shock mounting
- Flat, natural frequency response
Who Should Choose This: Professional podcasters and broadcasters who demand the best possible sound quality and are willing to invest accordingly.
3. Rode ProcCaster II
The modern broadcast challenger
Price: $199
The ProcCaster II is Rode’s latest entry in the broadcast microphone space, designed specifically for modern podcasting.
Key Features:
- Broadcast-quality dynamic capsule
- Internal shock mounting and pop filter
- Optimized for speech reproduction
- Revolution preamp with ultra-low noise floor
- Excellent off-axis rejection
Who Should Choose This: Serious podcasters who want broadcast-quality audio without stretching to RE20 price levels.
Key Considerations When Choosing an ATR2100 Alternative
1. Connection Type
The ATR2100’s dual XLR/USB connectivity made it uniquely versatile. Consider whether you:
- Need both connections: For flexibility between computer recording and professional setups
- Only need USB: For simplicity and direct computer recording
- Prefer XLR-only: For quality and future-proofing, but requires an audio interface
2. Microphone Type
- Dynamic microphones (like the ATR2100) excel at rejecting background noise and handling louder sources
- Condenser microphones offer more detail and sensitivity but pick up more room noise
- Most ATR2100 alternatives are dynamic mics, maintaining similar noise rejection properties
3. Pickup Pattern
- Cardioid: Records primarily what’s in front of the mic (like the ATR2100)
- Omnidirectional: Captures sound equally from all directions
- Bidirectional/Figure-8: Picks up sound from front and back, rejects sides
- Stereo: Captures spatial information across a wide front field
Most direct alternatives offer cardioid patterns, but some premium options provide multiple patterns for different recording scenarios.
4. Additional Features
Consider what extra features might benefit your specific use case:
- Headphone monitoring jack
- Included accessories (stands, pop filters)
- Software integration
- Built-in processing (compression, EQ)
- Mute buttons or other physical controls
5. Budget and Value
While price is always a consideration, think about:
- Long-term investment vs. immediate savings
- Feature set per dollar
- Build quality and expected lifespan
- Resale value
Setup Tips for Your New Microphone
Regardless of which ATR2100 alternative you choose, these tips will help you get the most out of your new microphone:
- Proper Positioning: Maintain 4-6 inches from the microphone for optimal sound
- Use a Pop Filter: Even with internal pop filters, an external one can further reduce plosives
- Consider Acoustic Treatment: Simple foam panels can dramatically improve room acoustics
- Invest in a Good Stand: A sturdy boom arm keeps the microphone positioned correctly and reduces desk noise
- Experiment with Settings: Take time to find the ideal gain levels and processing for your voice
Conclusion
While the ATR2100 deservedly earned its place as podcasting and streaming staple, today’s market offers numerous compelling alternatives across all price points.
The ATR2100x-USB or Samson Q2U provides the most seamless transition for a direct replacement with modern features. Budget-conscious creators can look to options like the Maono AU-PM421 or Fifine K669B, while those ready to upgrade can explore premium options like the Shure MV7 or Rode PodMic USB.
The best microphone ultimately depends on your specific needs, recording environment, and budget. By carefully considering the features that matter most to your content creation workflow, you can find an ATR2100 alternative that matches and potentially surpasses this classic microphone’s performance.
Remember that regardless of which microphone you choose, proper technique and setup will always have a greater impact on your final audio quality than minor differences between comparable microphones.
