Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB vs Shure SM57
A side-by-side look at Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB and Shure SM57 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
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Shure SM57
Studio workhorse that captures instruments as cleanly as it does voice
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| Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB | Shure SM57 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 who also record instruments and want one mic that does both jobs |
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
Shure SM57
- Dynamic cardioid XLR, no phantom power needed
- Frequency response 40 Hz to 15 kHz
- Contoured presence boost for instruments and voice
- Flat grille allows extremely close mic placement
- Output impedance 310 ohms
- Pneumatic shock mount system reduces handling noise
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
Shure SM57
Pros
- Versatile - voice and instruments equally well
- Same legendary build quality and warranty as the SM58
- Outstanding off-axis rejection in loud environments
- No phantom power, runs on anything
Cons
- Flat grille means plosives hit harder - pop filter is more important
- Slightly less presence boost for vocals compared to SM58
- Frequency ceiling at 15 kHz limits high-end air on bright voices
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 Shure SM57 if
Podcasters who also record instruments and want one mic that does both jobs.
The SM57 is technically an instrument mic, but its tight polar pattern and rejection characteristics make it a solid podcasting mic for anyone who treats it right. The flat grille means you have to work it closer than the SM58,…