Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Microphone for Podcasters Review

Based on Audio-Technica's hugely popular AT2020 XLR microphone, this USB version has the same outstanding build quality, high SPL handling, and unique low-mass diaphragm as the original, with the addition of a USB output for connecting directly to your computer -- no audio interface or preamp required. With its built-in analog-to-digital conversion, this mic delivers 44.1 or 48 kHz 16-bit audio directly to your recording software. There's a headphone jack directly on the front of the mic, with a Mix knob so you can monitor your performance blended with playback from your recording software.

With the cardioid Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+ mic, you get plug-and-play USB functionality and studio-quality articulation and sound all in one affordable mic. Drawing on the design of the much-loved AT2020 cardioid condenser mic, the AT2020 USB+ has the same killer transient and frequency response, ranging from 20Hz to 20kHz. Though there is an AT2020 USB mic, the + designates an additional headphone jack that comes with monitor control as well as no-latency monitoring.

Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Microphone

Features

•Experience AT2020 USB. Plug it in and transform your sound.
•Side-address studio condenser with USB digital output (Windows and Mac compatible)
•Crystal-clear, natural sound for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover use
•Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
•Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
•Low self-noise - perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipment.

Specifications

•ELEMENT Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
•POLAR PATTERN Cardioid
•FREQUENCY RESPONSE 20-16,000 Hz
•POWER REQUIREMENTS USB Power (5V DC)
•WEIGHT 13.2 oz (374 g)
•DIMENSIONS 6.38" (162.0 mm) long,
•2.05" (52.0 mm) maximum body diameter
•OUTPUT CONNECTOR USB-type
•ACCESSORIES FURNISHED Pivoting stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch; tripod desk stand; 10' (3.1 m) USB cable
•BIT DEPTH: 16 bit
•SAMPLE RATE: 44.1 kHz
•Stand and USB cable included

The AT2020 USB Plus Mic: Audio-Technica Quality For Your Desktop
Plug the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Plus condenser microphone directly into your computer, and capture your performance with Audio-Technica quality. With this USB mic, there's no need for a separate preamp or audio interface - the microphone records directly to your recording software at 16-bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz resolution. A built-in 1/8" headphone jack lets you monitor your performance, with a Mix knob to blend the signal of the microphone with pre-recorded audio in your headphones. With a cardioid pickup pattern and 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, this USB condenser mic is a great choice for narrating YouTube videos, recording podcasts, or capturing quick demos of your music.
Extended Frequency Response and High SPL Handling

Audio-Technica's original AT2020USB microphone had a more limited frequency response, but this "Plus" version extends the highs to 20 kHz, allowing you to capture more detail and accuracy from vocals and instruments. And with a maximum sound pressure level rating of 144 dB SPL, the AT2020 USB is a solid choice for tracking loud sources, like drums or guitar amps.

What makes the AT2020 USB microphone such a solid choice for home needs? Flexibility is key. Audio-Technica's innovative back-electret capsule design means an exceptionally thin, responsive diaphragm that's great at capturing the fast transients of acoustic guitars or cymbals. Of course, as a cardioid large-diaphragm condenser, the AT2020 USB wouldn't be the home-studio hit that it is without the ability to deliver detailed vocals. Add in the USB output, and this mic's flexibility makes it a serious value.

Podcasters love AT2020 USB for it simplicity in connecting and ease of use. It doesn't need a mixer or DAC so just plug in and there you go. Great sound for Skype talks - every listener will experience that WOW emotion when hearing you via AT2020 for the first time. It outperforms jsut about any headset, including pricey gaming headsets that cost twice as much yet include cheepish low quality mics.