Audio-Technica AT2020 USB

Presentation

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is a cardioid condenser microphone . In general, it is ideal for computerized recording. It's actually the easiest way to make a high-quality recording using your PC.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB in a few words

Equipped with a USB digital output, it delivers crisp and very clean sound. This is the ideal USB microphone for your home studio or field recording. It is also suitable for podcasting or off-camera.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB provides very good quality recording . Moreover, its design is inspired by the AT2020, another legendary cardioid condenser studio microphone.

It includes a custom-made, low-mass diaphragm. This allows it to provide extended frequency response and superior transient response.

The microphone also has a built-in headphone jack with volume control . This gives you direct access to control your microphone without delay. With it, it is also possible to do a mixing control combining a microphone and pre-recorded audio. While its cardioid directivity offers excellent off-axis rejection . And its A/D converter guarantees well-articulated sound reproduction.

Features of Audio-Technica AT2020

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is a side-capture studio condenser microphone . This type of microphone has a USB digital output. This makes it one of the best studio microphones, and also a versatile recording tool .

Additionally, it allows you to capture an acoustic wave and convert it into an electrical signal. In fact, its operation is similar to a regular microphone . The only difference is that it is external.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB microphone is aimed at people who want to record anywhere. In fact, it connects directly to your computer using a USB cable (USB port). This then guarantees easy and optimal use. Precisely, this ease of use makes it the ideal recording equipment for use in a home studio or in the field.

Audio-Technica microphone offers a microphone that is perfectly suited to podcasts and voice-overs . It is also capable of recording instruments. That is, for all types of recording, the result will not disappoint you.

Furthermore, the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is a small, easy-to-carry microphone . Once plugged into your PC's USB port, it will work seamlessly with your recording software. With low self-noise, it adapts to all recording equipment, even the most sophisticated.

Design by Audio-Technica AT2020

Made entirely from durable materials, the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB truly allows for a nomadic life. Indeed, its body is cut from solid metal, guaranteeing its lifespan.

It seems capable of withstanding a lot of shock . A rigid grid, for its part, protects the capsule. The microphone connects using a square USB connector . Finally, it comes with a three-meter-long cable and a tripod.

Application and user guide

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is equipped with a side studio condenser with a USB digital output. Its low-mass diaphragm features custom manufacturing, allowing for extended frequency response and superior transient response. To obtain better isolation of the sound source, Audio-Technica opted for a cardioid polar pattern .

Indeed, this allows a reduction in side and rear sound pickup . Moreover, its own noise level is particularly reduced. This therefore makes it particularly suitable for high-level recording equipment. For optimal sound recording , I also advise you to direct the microphone towards the sound source. In other words, the microphone must be placed in front of the person speaking or singing.

The same goes for the sound recording of instruments. This will allow a very good response in terms of frequency. Also, in order to obtain the best acoustics, you will need to carry out positioning tests.

This microphone is perfect for podcasting . It is also essential equipment for a recording studio. Very versatile, it also adapts very well to off-camera and on-field recording. In all these situations, its audio quality remains intact.

This version of the AT2020 requires the use of a laptop or home studio. Very easy to use, Plug and Play will do the job very well. For classic use of the microphone, its performance will surprise you and leave you speechless. Its regular frequency response makes it a must have for nomads. Compared to that of its competitors (for example, the Yéty USB), its curve is by far the best.

Considering its technical characteristics, its quality/price ratio remains unbeatable. It offers very good quality recordings. In terms of sound recording, this model offers very natural and soft sound reproduction. The microphone can also be very sensitive and it produces natural sound. Its cardioid directivity makes it the preferred tool for recording vocals and instruments.

Microphone setup

Before using the microphone, it is important to perform some configurations. First, it comes with a tripod that must be set up on a flat surface. The extendable legs of the tripod guarantee a much wider and more stable support surface.

Then make sure the front of the microphone is facing the sound source. Then, insert the microphone into the threaded collar of the swivel mount and tighten the collar while holding the microphone.

The swivel mount has a manually operated screw to adjust the angle of the microphone. Then, once all the settings are made, you can plug in the USB cable and enjoy your Audio-Technica AT2020 USB. It is important to note that this microphone is compatible with Windows and Mac . However, you will need to configure the device accordingly.

Adjusting the microphone level is very important to ensure optimal performance. To do this, turn the volume to its maximum. If you notice distortion, reduce the microphone volume using either the control panel settings or the functions in your recording software .

The principle remains the same if your recording program indicates levels indicating a clear overload (peak level). Depending on your needs, you can subsequently adjust the settings. Once adjustments are made, there should be no further adjustments to be made until the acoustic input experiences a significant change.

By the way, you can also check out our complete guide to the Neumann TLM 103 microphone . This guide contains a full test, verdict, reviews, and demo of this vocal recording studio condenser microphone.

Technical specifications

• Type: Permanently polarized capacitor with fixed plate at fixed charge
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency response: 20-16,000 Hz
• Power Type: USB (5V DC)
• Resolution: 16 Bits
• Weight: 374 g (13.2 oz)
• Dimensions:
  • Length 162.0 mm (6.38 in)
  • Maximum body diameter 52.0 mm (2.05 in)
• Output connector: USB type
• Accessories supplied:
  • Swivel mount compatible with 5/8"-27 threaded legs
  • Threaded adapter to convert 5/8 in-27 legs to 3/8 in-16
  • Soft protective case; tripod mount
  • Cable 3.1 m long (10 ft)
• System configuration:
  • Macintosh: Mac OS X; USB 1.0 or 2.0; REQUIRED 64 MB RAM (minimum)
  • Windows: XP Home Edition or XP Professional Edition; USB 1.0 or 2.0; 64 MB of RAM (minimum)

Who is the AT20202 USB designed for?

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is the improved version of the AT2020. But its USB adapter is one of its main assets. While being very easy to use, it certainly offers excellent sound quality.

In addition, you can use it anywhere just by connecting it to your laptop or MacBook. Given its ease of use, this USB microphone is aimed directly at beginners. But not only.

It is also a faithful friend for outdoor sound recording. In fact, it can be used via any conventional computer. Super simple and immediate to use, this microphone is sure to surprise you. To try it is to adopt it. It also finds its place in home studios as well as in renowned studios.

You can connect it with all types of computers: desktop, laptop, Mac OS. No need for a mixer or phantom power, its USB cable does the job very well.

Additionally, to protect your microphone, it is recommended not to expose it to direct sunlight or places where the temperature is above 43°C for an extended period of time. Too much humidity should also be avoided. This could affect its performance.

Whether recording in the studio or in the great outdoors, the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB will make people happy. In fact, it's a powerful microphone in every way. Whether for podcasting (see also the Rode Podcaster microphone) or for recording musical instruments (clarinet, acoustic guitar, etc.), sound quality remains relevant.

My verdict

Are you planning to buy a USB microphone for your studio or for your personal use? The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is one of the best dynamic microphones. Very easy to configure, it does not require any particular technical knowledge. Then, once connected, the microphone installs the drivers automatically. In just a few clicks, the microphone is fully operational . For the price, it's a very good USB microphone.

Its frequency responses give it exceptional clarity. Used for live streaming or broadcasting, its sound quality is as rich as it is good. Adding a windshield will only improve the quality of the recording. Of course, it's not a Neumann U87 pro for studio or an AKG microphone, but it is a condenser microphone for beginners who want to record their track directly from a PC. It is even the ideal tool.

Furthermore, if you travel a lot, or if you want to save a little space on your workstation, don't hesitate to choose the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB. As a reminder, it is based on capacitor technology and has USB connectivity . This is a plus not to be overlooked.

Another relevant detail is its frequency response. Compared to its competitors, it is by far the best. Indeed, USB microphones are renowned for all that is background noise. But with the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB, you won't encounter this kind of inconvenience. It offers high quality response at a lower price.

Personally, I find the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB to be a good USB microphone offered at a decent price . Moreover, it offers a quality that goes beyond my expectations. Need something for your home studio? amateur or semi-professional customers who need equipment that is easy to use and easy to install? So, I would recommend this product without hesitation.

It is undoubtedly the best choice. In addition, it does not need a high-performance sound card or an amplifier to perform its feats. To improve the results obtained, you can also use a pop filter. To capture the sound of acoustic instruments, or to record vocals, you must aim the microphone towards the sound source. In any case, rest assured, this microphone even controls the treble.

Our opinion on the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB

With connection via a USB cable, the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB is very easily adjustable. Versatile, it is among the best USB microphones in its range. True to the manufacturer's description, the results obtained are significantly better.

Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Demo

Special offer at Audio-Technica🔥