Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs Electro-Voice RE320
A side-by-side look at Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Electro-Voice RE320 for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
24-bit dual-output dynamic with condenser-grade resolution at a budget price
See site
Check price on Amazon
Electro-Voice RE320
Variable-D dynamic that killed proximity effect before it was cool
See site
Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | Electro-Voice RE320 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Budget-conscious podcasters who want 24-bit USB audio and a clean upgrade path to XLR | Podcasters and broadcasters who move around while recording and need consistent tonal response from varying distances |
Key features
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
- Dynamic cardioid, USB-C and XLR simultaneous output
- 24-bit / 192kHz USB analog-to-digital conversion
- 3.5mm headphone output for zero-latency monitoring
- Includes USB-C to USB-C, USB-C to USB-A, and XLR cables
- Includes tripod desk stand
- Cardioid polar pattern for front-address recording
Electro-Voice RE320
- Cardioid dynamic XLR with Variable-D proximity effect control
- Dual-curve frequency switch: general (45 Hz to 18 kHz) and kick (30 Hz to 18 kHz)
- Output impedance 150 ohms balanced
- Humbucking coil for electromagnetic interference rejection
- Neodymium capsule for high sensitivity
- No phantom power required
Pros and cons
Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB
Pros
- 24-bit/192kHz USB - best-in-class resolution for a budget dynamic
- Both USB-C and XLR outputs simultaneously available
- Ships with all necessary cables
- Genuine dynamic rejection of room noise
Cons
- Handheld body design sits awkwardly in a studio boom arm
- Tonally leaner than premium dynamics - less low-end warmth
- Headphone output lacks volume control
Electro-Voice RE320
Pros
- Variable-D technology provides consistent tone across mic distances
- Dual-curve switch doubles as a broadcast and instrument mic
- Humbucking coil rejects interference from studio equipment
- Trusted by broadcast engineers and podcast veterans alike
Cons
- Requires a preamp with solid clean gain like most dynamic mics
- Heavier form factor than handheld-style dynamics
- Less brand recognition than Shure or RODE for new buyers
The verdict
Choose Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB if
Budget-conscious podcasters who want 24-bit USB audio and a clean upgrade path to XLR.
The 24-bit/192kHz converter is what sets the ATR2100x-USB apart from the Samson Q2U at a similar price - you can hear it, especially if you're listening back on good headphones. The cardioid dynamic capsule does the expected work of rejecting…
Choose Electro-Voice RE320 if
Podcasters and broadcasters who move around while recording and need consistent tonal response from varying distances.
The RE320 solves the proximity effect problem in a way most podcasters do not appreciate until they have lived with a mic that does not. Variable-D means your voice sounds consistent whether you are 4 inches or 10 inches from…