Audio-Technica
AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Best studio condenser for home creators seeking professional audio quality.
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a critically acclaimed cardioid condenser microphone, perfect for project and home studios. It delivers professional quality and crisp detail at an accessible price, making it a favorite among creators. Engineered with a custom low-mass diaphragm, it provides extended frequency and superior transient response. This microphone handles high Sound Pressure Levels (SPLs) and offers a wide dynamic range, ensuring versatility for various recording needs. Its cardioid polar pattern effectively isolates sound sources and minimizes unwanted background noise, ideal for musicians, podcasters, and voiceover artists seeking clear, natural audio.
$119.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
193
/ 1735
#193 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-77%
Below average
Element
Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
/ Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
Who it's for
- Entry-level creators on a budget seeking professional audio quality
- Versatile musicians and podcasters recording vocals or acoustic instruments
- Frequent users needing a reliable mic built for daily wear
Who should skip it
- Engineers requiring onboard controls for loud or boomy sources
- Creators recording in untreated rooms with significant background noise
- Vocalists with naturally sibilant voices needing a flatter response
Performance breakdown
Audio Clarity
The low-mass diaphragm captures crisp, professional-grade detail for any vocal source.
SPL Handling
Easily manages loud instruments without distortion or clipping during intense sessions.
Background Isolation
Cardioid pattern effectively rejects off-axis noise for cleaner home studio recordings.
Build Durability
Rugged metal construction ensures it survives the rigors of daily creative use.
Dynamic Range
Wide range provides excellent depth for both quiet whispers and loud performances.
Setup Simplicity
Straightforward XLR connectivity makes integration into any interface quick and painless.
Key Specs
Element
Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Frequency Response
20-20,000 Hz
Maximum Input Sound Level
144 dB SPL
Noise
20 dB SPL
Dynamic Range
124 dB
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
74 dB
Weight
12.1 oz (345 g)
Features
- Sets the standard for studio condenser mics
- Ideal for project and home studio applications
- High SPL handling and wide dynamic range
- Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm for clarity
- Cardioid pattern improves sound isolation
- Affordable professional audio quality
- Engineered for crisp, detailed sound
- Iconic and critically acclaimed design
What customers say
The Audio Technica AT2020 is widely praised for delivering exceptional value and professional sound quality, establishing itself as a benchmark in its price category. Users consistently laud its crisp clarity, especially for vocals and instruments, often comparing its performance favorably to much costlier microphones. This outstanding performance for the price is a recurring theme. Reviewers also appreciate the microphone's robust, durable metal construction, suggesting longevity. A key consideration noted is its high sensitivity, which requires a quiet recording space to manage ambient noise effectively. Furthermore, users understand that this XLR microphone necessitates 48V phantom power via an interface. Overall, it is regarded as a reliable, high-performing staple for home studios and content creators.
Know before you buy
Yes, as a condenser microphone, the AT2020 requires 48V phantom power to operate. You will need to connect it to an audio interface or a mixer that provides this power via an XLR cable.
Absolutely. The AT2020 is designed to handle high sound pressure levels up to 144 dB, making it capable of capturing loud sound sources without distortion.
Yes, the cardioid pattern is specifically designed to pick up sound primarily from the front while rejecting noise from the sides and rear. This helps isolate your voice or instrument and minimizes the amount of room ambiance captured in your recording.
The AT2020 uses a standard XLR connection. You will need an XLR-to-XLR cable to connect it to your audio interface or preamp.
The microphone comes with a pivoting, threaded stand mount. While this is sufficient for many setups, you may want to purchase a separate shock mount if you find that vibrations from your desk or floor are being picked up during recording.
It is highly versatile and performs well for both. Its wide frequency response and crisp detail make it a popular choice for everything from voiceovers and podcasts to acoustic guitars and percussion.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.