Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Best plug-and-play microphone for streamers and podcasters.
The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X is a versatile cardioid condenser microphone designed for streamers, podcasters, and content creators. It offers a clear, high-quality sound with a smooth, natural frequency response. The microphone features a USB-C output for easy plug-and-play connectivity with computers, and it also includes a USB-A adapter for broader compatibility. Its directional cardioid pickup pattern effectively isolates your voice from background noise, ensuring a focused and professional audio capture. This microphone is ideal for enhancing your vocal recordings and overall audio production.
$130.90
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
191
/ 1827
#191 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-74%
Below average
Type
Cardioid Condenser
/ Cardioid Condenser
Who it's for
- Podcasters requiring clean audio free from vibration noise
- Vocalists and musicians seeking professional studio-grade clarity
- Home recordists needing flexibility for loud sound sources
Who should skip it
- Beginners lacking an audio interface or mixer
- Creators working in untreated or noisy home environments
- Aesthetic-focused users wanting a stylish, boutique microphone
Performance breakdown
Vocal Clarity
Delivers crisp, professional-grade audio that elevates any home recording setup.
Setup Simplicity
Plug-and-play USB-C connectivity makes getting started virtually effortless.
Background Noise Rejection
The cardioid pattern effectively isolates your voice from ambient room sounds.
Build Durability
Rugged construction ensures this mic survives daily use on your desk.
Monitoring Precision
Integrated headphone jack allows for reliable, zero-latency audio feedback.
Frequency Response
Smooth, natural sound profile captures vocals with impressive, balanced detail.
Key Specs
Type
Cardioid Condenser
Connectivity
USB-C (with USB-A adapter included)
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Bit Depth
24-bit
Sample Rate
96 kHz
Headphone Output
3.5mm stereo jack
Mounting
Threaded stand mount
Features
- High-quality condenser microphone for professional audio capture
- USB-C connectivity for plug-and-play ease with computers
- Includes USB-A adapter for wider compatibility
- Cardioid polar pattern minimizes background noise
- Smooth, natural frequency response for clear vocals and instruments
- Headphone jack for direct monitoring
- Durable construction for reliable performance
What customers say
The Audio Technica AT2035 earns high praise for its exceptional build quality and professional sound reproduction. Users frequently highlight the natural clarity it brings to vocal recordings and acoustic instruments. Its sturdy construction provides a sense of long term reliability that exceeds expectations at this price point. Many owners appreciate the inclusion of a custom shock mount which adds significant value to the package. This microphone stands out as a dependable choice for creators seeking studio grade performance without a massive investment. It remains a favorite for its consistent results and straightforward setup.
Know before you buy
No, the AT2020USB-X connects directly to your computer via USB-C or USB-A. It features an internal analog-to-digital converter, so you can plug it in and start recording immediately without extra hardware.
The cardioid polar pattern is specifically designed to focus on sound directly in front of the mic while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. While it is excellent at isolating your voice, it is still a sensitive condenser mic, so it will perform best in a relatively quiet environment.
Yes, the microphone includes a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack. This allows for direct, latency-free monitoring so you can hear exactly what you are recording in real-time.
The AT2020USB-X supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution, which provides high-fidelity, studio-grade audio. This is more than sufficient for professional-sounding podcasts, streams, and vocal recordings.
It includes a threaded stand mount to attach the microphone to a standard boom arm or desk stand. Please note that a desktop tripod or boom arm is typically sold separately, so you will need to ensure you have a compatible stand for your setup.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.