Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser Microphone (USB connection) for voiceover, podcasting, streaming and recording

Product Information

The AT2020 is Audio-Technica’s 20 Series flagship microphone and our best-selling model. Ideal for both the studio or at-home applications, the AT2020 features excellent performance specifications, including a custom-engineered diaphragm that provides extended frequency response. Artists, content creators and audio engineers can rely on the AT2020 for a smooth, natural sound with maximum accuracy. The gain control knob located on the microphone body, to adjust the input level of the AT2020USBi on your iPad or iPhone. Design techniques and advanced manufacturing ensuring compliance with Audio-Technica's trict standards of consistency and reliability. 24-bit/96khz resolution

Since the AT2020 is a plug n’ play microphone, you should have absolutely no issues getting it to work; simply connect it and that’s it, you can now record! In fact, most professional studios have a couple of those lying around that they use more often than you’d think.The AT2020 USB is based on the design of Audio-Technica’s critically acclaimed AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone. Like the AT2020, it features a low-mass diaphragm, custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response. Here’s a post where I compare the Blue Yeti to the AT2020+, should you be interested. What do you get in the Box?

Another common negative point is the included microphone stand. The stand is reported to be flimsy and not very sturdy. Considering that this microphone is a bit on the hefty side, this is a real issue. More than one reviewer complained that the microphone has a tendency to tip over on the enclosed stand, and many suggested purchasing one that is sturdier. Some also reported trouble putting the stand together. Sound Quality USB microphones definitely have their place, especially for either beginners or people who need one input and one input only. Included Accessories: The AT2020USB-X condenser microphone comes with a custom Audio-Technica desk mic stand that provides a stable and secure base, 3/8"-16 to 5/8"-27 threaded adapter, and 6.6' (2 m) USB-C to USB-A cable with a USB-A to USB-C adapter. The other downside we find with this USB microphone is the permanently polarized condenser. If you aren't sure of what microphone polar patterns are, it's the indication of how sensitive it is to sounds from certain directions (and can also be referred to as "directionality"). Some microphones only take input from the front ("Cardioid", like this one), others may take it from all sides ("Omni"). The Blue Yeti, for example, offers 4 different pattern modes, offering massive flexibility for any environment. It took me a while to suss out the difference between the AT XLR & USB version, meaning if my son went for the XLR he’d have to have buy an audio interface to make this possible

What’s it like to use the Audio-Technica AT2020?

The small footprint of the stand and the compact size of the microphone’s body is something that I can really appreciate as someone who frequently flexes between office and remote working. The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X is small enough to fit comfortably in my bag and is built sturdy to the point where I’m not worrying about it during commutes. If you have a cramped gaming or office desk, then you won’t have to worry about the stand taking up that much room. Just be warned that it could sit slightly lower than where your mouth may align. It’s nothing that had a significant impact on me, as the Cardioid condenser has a decent range to it, but it’s something to bear in mind. Should you buy the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X microphone? Buy it if… You can also clean your mic’s external windscreen by removing it from the headcase, soaking it in a cleaning solution (as mentioned above) and then thoroughly wiping it dry with a soft cloth. These would be the basic key points on the differences between XLR and USB microphones, however I wrote an entire post about this topic that you should definitely read as well. My recommendation Whether you are looking for the best streaming microphone or looking to enhance your content creation for YouTube videos, the AT2020USB-X is the optimal choice for all types of content creation.