The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ condenser microphone is a remarkable choice for those seeking an exceptional recording experience. With a focus on simplicity and quality, this microphone is tailored for singers, podcasters, and creators looking to elevate their audio game without a steep learning curve.
At the core of its features is the condenser microphone itself, renowned for its studio-grade performance. The AT2020USB+ connects to your device effortlessly via USB, eliminating the need for complex setups or additional audio interfaces. It’s a true plug-and-play solution that streamlines the recording process.
One of its standout features is the cardioid polar pattern, ensuring that your recordings capture the intended sound source while effectively reducing background noise. This makes it ideal for vocals, single instrument recordings, and podcasting. The cardioid pattern is especially useful when you need to isolate your voice from ambient sounds.
To add convenience to your recording experience, the AT2020USB+ comes equipped with a built-in headphone jack. Real-time monitoring allows you to hear your recordings as they happen, enabling you to make necessary adjustments on the fly. This feature is especially valuable when recording vocals or podcasts, as it helps you achieve the best results with minimal hassle.
The microphone itself is built to last, with excellent shock mounting and a reliable pivoting stand mount. This durability ensures that your investment in the AT2020USB+ will serve you well for years to come. It’s a testament to Audio-Technica’s commitment to delivering quality audio equipment.
In the realm of pros, the AT2020USB+ boasts exceptional sound quality. The microphone captures audio with remarkable clarity and warmth, making it a fantastic choice for vocals and podcasting. Its budget-friendly price tag further adds to its appeal, offering impressive value for its cost. Moreover, the microphone’s ease of use and real-time monitoring capabilities are noteworthy advantages for both beginners and experienced users.
As for the cons, the microphone’s cardioid pattern, while excellent for isolating sound sources, may not be the most versatile choice for users looking to record multiple voices or instruments simultaneously. Additionally, it’s important to note that the AT2020USB+ exclusively offers USB connectivity, which may not suit advanced setups requiring XLR connections.
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ condenser microphone is a reliable and cost-effective option for those who prioritize sound quality and user-friendly features. If you’re a singer, podcaster, or content creator in search of a microphone that offers exceptional performance without the complexities of high-end equipment, the AT2020USB+ is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.
MUSIC GAMES AND MORE –
Great mic and pure sound.
ジャパン・アンクル –
説明では一回のみ使用となっていた。見た目も悪そうなところは無かった。音色については手持ちのU87Ai と比較したがそん色は無かった。市場では24～25 万円のところ18万円だったから良い買い物だったと思っている。またU87シリーズが増員となった。
A. Paes –
I bought a Neumann and recieved chinese mic just like it but without the logo.A phony one! I was robbed!!!
J. D. BROWN –
First I want to start by saying that I am an apprenticing sound engineer who aspires to have his own studio one day, and am slowly amassing a collection of audio equipment. I now own 5 microphones, the Blue Baby Bottle, the Blue Woodpecker, an AKG C414 XLS, an AKG C414 XLII, and now, the crown jewel of my collection: the Neumann U87.
It comes boxed in a beautiful rosewood box. It rests perfectly in the foam shaped to fit the microphone inside the box. This and the AKGC414, in my opinion, is the most well packaged microphone on the market, and I would have no reservations about having it shipped. Rest assured it will arrive safe and sound.
Now, on to the microphone. This microphone is simply the best microphone available. It is a classic microphone and has been used for decades in countless hit records. It is one of my most valued tools in my studio, and any studio I visit, I expect them to have it. The signal is perhaps one of the cleanest signals I’ve ever heard. Its amazing, and produces the highest quality audio I have ever seen. The U87 and the AKGC414 are my two favorite microphones. It doesn’t necessarily “blow the competition out of the water”, but it is a noticeable upgrade from the C414. I think this is the best investment I have made in my studio besides my Avalon vt 737sp. I have never had such ease at mastering projects before the U87. It brings out the full character of the voice you are looking to record. It is ideal for nearly any recording situation, close miking a vocalist, or even recording an entire orchestra ensemble: this microphone truly delivers. Even though it only has 3 cardioid patterns, they are the three most useful, and I doubt the others will be mixed. If I truly need a different pattern, I just switch to the C414. I breeze through projects now that I have this microphone, sometimes I have to do hardly any EQing to achieve the sound that satisfies me.
You will not be disappointed in this microphone. Please be sure you know what you’re doing before making an investment in a microphone like this. You can’t just plug this into your computer and get professional results. You will need a high quality preamp (i use the Avalon vt 737sp) and a high quality ADC (analog to digital converter). If you don’t have these things, don’t come crying to Amazon saying that it can be compared to much cheaper microphones (like a certain Amazon reviewer who will go unnamed). If you are a professional audio engineer, or just someone with a project studio that truly wants the best sound available, this is the microphone with you.
Just get it, you’ll never look back.
sdarr –
Can you use a clone and get good results? Sure. Will you get the same high end sparkle and mojo you get with a REAL NEUMAN U87 AI, ABSOLUTELY NOT! Let’s be honest, anyone that doesn’t understand WHY one should pay this amount for a real Neuman, is not musically experienced enough to know the difference from a dime a dozen harsh Chinese Mic, and what this microphone has to offer. There is a reason it is trusted in any serious studio.
It will sound GREAT on MOST voices. It sounds incredible in the mix. Hands down, a studio favorite.
Don’t be fooled by the haters who wish they had a real U87 AI. It’s a shame that people can leave reviews here that have never even HEARD the mic or understand the art of professional audio engineering.
I tried every clone in the book trying to convince myself they would be close enough to a real U87 AI. They aren’t close.
Pareto principle in full effect. You can pay 20% the cost of the U87 for a clone, and get 80% of the sound quality of a U87 AI. But you truly must pay the extra 80% to get that last finishing touch Grammy Record last 20% magic that ONLY a REAL Neuman U87 AI will give you.
It brings out all the nuances in my voice and truly gives me more confidence as a singer. It captures unique qualities in my voice that no other mic is able to capture. Pair it with a Vintech X73i for a little extra grit and character. Or you can dial it into a Great River MP-500NV for the best of both worlds, but providing a tad more smooth buttery softness. Ad an API 512C, and you’ll enjoy a nice punchy, aggressive quality to this mic. Sure, these pre-amps are great, but the point is this microphone ROCKS and I don’t have to wonder anymore. I own it, and it performs incredibly. End of story. Buy this microphone if you can afford it, or heck…maybe even if you can’t afford. You won’t be sorry. There is a reason these mics retain their value.
You get what you pay for.
Enjoy!
In Summary. Yes. It’s all that.
Ian North –
When I owned I.N.S. Recording in New York City this was our main vocal mic. That was from 1981 to 1993. At that time if you did not own this mic you would not be considered a professional studio. We had platinum albums that were recorded using this mic. That said, while this is a very accurate mic, I would not choose this to record vocals or acoustic instruments today. Indeed, I would choose an M Audio Sputnik over this, which has a more modern and flattering sound and is a fraction of the cost. For this kind of money the sound should be magic and it is not.
JW –
Industry standard microphone for a reason. Yes, it’s *really* expensive. Yes, it’s a also just a little bit better. What mic to pick depends on who is singing and what kind of tone you want out of their voice. The Neumann U87 might not be the exact sound everyone is looking for but it’s a standard for a reason. You may or may not like a different mic for a specific application but there is nothing you can fault the U87 for. If I had to pick just one mic from my collection, this would be it.