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• Technically-advanced large diaphragm tensioned specifically 

to provide smooth, natural sonic characteristics

• Exceptionally low noise, wide dynamic range and high-SPL 

capability for greatest versatility

• Transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency 

distortion and provides superior correlation of high-speed 
transients

• Precision-machined, nickel-plated brass, acoustic element baffle 

provides enhanced element stability and optimal sensitivity

• State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics ensure compliance 

with A-T’s stringent consistency and reliability standards

The AT4040 is intended for use in professional applications where
remote power is available. It requires 48V DC phantom power, 
which may be provided by a mixer or console, or by a 
separate, in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-
channel and CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies.

Output from the microphone’s XLRM-type connector is low 
impedance (Lo-Z) balanced. The signal appears across Pins 2 and
3; Pin 1 is ground (shield). Output phase is “Pin 2 hot” – 
positive acoustic pressure produces positive voltage at Pin 2.

To avoid phase cancellation and poor sound, all mic cables must be
wired consistently: Pin 1-to-Pin 1, etc.

An integral 80 Hz hi-pass filter provides easy switching from a flat
frequency response to a low-end roll-off. The high-pass position
reduces the microphone’s sensitivity to popping in close vocal use.
It also reduces the pickup of low-frequency ambient noise (such 
as traffic, air-handling systems, etc.), room reverberation and
mechanically-coupled vibrations.

In use, secure the cable to the mic stand or boom, leaving a slack
loop at the mic. This will ensure the most effective shock isolation
and reduce the possibility of accidentally pulling the microphone out
of its mount.

Avoid leaving the microphone in the open sun or in areas where tem-
peratures exceed 110° F (43° C) for extended periods. Extremely
high humidity should also be avoided.

One-Year Limited Warranty

Audio-Technica brand products purchased in the U.S.A. are warranted for one year from date
of purchase by Audio-Technica U.S., Inc. (A.T.U.S.) to be free of defects in materials and
workmanship. In event of such defect, product will be repaired promptly without charge or, at
our option, replaced with a new product of equal or superior value if delivered to A.T.U.S. or
an Authorized Service Center, prepaid, together with the sales slip or other proof of purchase
date. Prior approval from A.T.U.S. is required for return. This warranty excludes defects
due to normal wear, abuse, shipping damage, or failure to use product in accordance with
instructions. This warranty is void in the event of unauthorized repair or modification, or
removal or defacing of the product labeling.

For return approval and shipping information, contact the Service Department, 
Audio-Technica U.S., Inc., 1221 Commerce Drive, Stow, Ohio 44224.

Except to the extent precluded by applicable state law, A.T.U.S. will have no liability for 
any consequential, incidental, or special damages; any warranty of merchantability or
fitness for particular purpose expires when this warranty expires.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which vary from
state to state.

Outside the U.S.A., please contact your local dealer for warranty details.

AT4040 SPECIFICATIONS

ELEMENT

Externally-polarized (DC bias)
condenser

POLAR PATTERN

Cardioid

FREQUENCY RESPONSE

20-20,000 Hz

LOW FREQUENCY ROLL-OFF

80 Hz, 12 dB/octave

OPEN CIRCUIT SENSITIVITY

–32 dB (25.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa*

IMPEDANCE

100 ohms

MAXIMUM INPUT SOUND LEVEL

145 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.;
155 dB SPL, with 10 dB 
pad (nominal)

NOISE

1

12 dB SPL

DYNAMIC RANGE (typical)

133 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL

SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO

1

82 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa*

PHANTOM POWER 

48V DC, 4.2 mA typical

REQUIREMENTS

SWITCHES

Flat, roll-off;
10 dB pad (nominal)

WEIGHT (less accessories)

12.7 oz (360 g)

DIMENSIONS

6.69" (170.0 mm) long, 2.10" 
(53.4 mm) maximum body 
diameter

OUTPUT CONNECTOR

Integral 3-pin XLRM-type

ACCESSORIES FURNISHED

AT8449 shock mount for 

5

/

8

"-27 

threaded stands; microphone 
dust cover; protective carrying
case

†In the interest of standards development, A.T.U.S. offers full details on its test 

methods to other industry professionals on request.

*1 Pascal = 10 dynes /cm

2

= 10 microbars = 94 dB SPL

1

Typical, A-weighted, using Audio Precision System One.

Audio-Technica U.S., Inc., 

1221 Commerce Drive, Stow, Ohio 44224

Audio-Technica Limited,

Old Lane, Leeds LS11 8AG England

www.audio-technica.com

P51464-EN     ©2002  Audio-Technica U.S., Inc.    Printed in Japan

AT4040

CARDIOID CONDENSER MICROPHONE

Frequency Response

Frequency in Hertz

LEGEND

12" or more on axis

Roll-off

10 dB

Response in dB

50

100

200

1k

500

2k

5k

10k

20k

8 kHz

Polar Pattern

180

SCALE IS 5 DECIBELS PER DIVISION

LEGEND

200 Hz

1 kHz
5 kHz

270

240

210

300

330

0

150

120

90

30

60

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