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. Another very popular aspect of this microphone is the price. Especially considering the high level of performance, this microphone is priced right. Many people admit to choosing this microphone partly due to the low price. While many admit that it is not quite as good as the more expensive professional microphones, but reviewers were still astonished at the quality of sound that this inexpensive condenser microphone can produce. In this post I will be comparing two of the best-known USB microphones; The Audio-Technica AT2020+ and the Rode NT USB so you can get a better understanding of which one you should go for, and yes… there is a winner. Smooth, extended frequency response ideally suited for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording and voiceover use The AT2020USB+ mic comes with everything you need to get started, including a pivoting stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands, 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter, soft protective pouch, tripod desk stand and a 10' (3.1 m) USB cable.

Both microphones are identical in both sound- and built-quality, but the difference lies in that the AT2020 USB comes with Gain and Headphone Mix controls and doesn’t require any additional gear to work. Of course, additional equipment can increase the cost of your overall setup which means USB microphones are often the more affordable option, as they have a built-in recording interface and preamp. That said, XLR microphones offer greater flexibility as they can record multiple vocals or instruments simultaneously and can also be used live - all while producing professional standard sound.Typical condenser microphones use a lightweight membrane/diaphragm (1) and a fixed plate (2) that act as a capacitor. The AT2031 was released in 2011 to provide a cost-effective recording solution for stringed instruments in both live and studio applications. The AT2020USBi feeds via the Micro-HDMI cable for convenient and simple mobile use. No drivers are necessary, it is Class-Compliant. Mic stand adaptor Based on the critically-acclaimed AT2020, the USB adaptation offers plug and play compatibility - perfect for those looking to upgrade their setup. Featuring the studio-quality articulation and intelligibility the AT2020 is so well-known for, the AT2020+USB utilises a USB output which makes it ideal for home studios. 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

In 2021, sales of our AT2020 surpassed the one million mark. To celebrate this extraordinary milestone, Audio-Technica donated one million yen to non-profit organisation Hungry For Music charity, which helps to provide musical opportunities for disadvantaged youths. A particularly fitting tribute, since the AT2020 was initially designed almost twenty years ago to provide an affordable opportunity to bring high-quality sound to everyone.

Should you buy the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X?

The sound quality is great; it does have a slight bump in the higher mid frequencies that can bring out some crispiness from time to time, but this can definitely be EQ’d out. In 2021 our US division offered Audio-Technica fans the opportunity to win a 24-karat gold-plated AT2020 microphone to celebrate the flagship mic achieving its one-millionth sale. Extended frequency response ideal for podcasting, home recording studios, outdoor recording or voice recording. USB Microphones are plug and play, which simply means that you connect them to a computer and that’s it, they are ready to be used. Unless you’re 100% certain that you will need just the one microphone, then the XLR alternative is much more versatile, plus there are a lot more microphones available in an XLR format. Price