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.
Dj –
It makes my voice sound so good it’s crazy, upgraded from a $180 mic to this one, and the difference was night and day to me. This mic does a really good job at defining your voice, a lot of your voice’s uniqueness shines through, and it’s sounds super crisp. When gaming people compliment my voice and I’ve even had some ask if I’m using a soundboard, I got it on sale but I still would’ve considered it at its original. The mic itself feels very sturdy and luxurious, has a nice weight to it to, and the shock mount it comes with is a 10/10.
Seven Scale –
Great for picking up that warm, low tone in the voice without losing clarity or too much brightness. Love this, and it’s very affordable for the quality.
khashayar –
Very powerful microphone, sound quality is top notch. Does not come with an official “Blue” Pop Filter such as when you order from the official vendor. Will require your own leads.
Initially there was a strange buzzing sound but after I unplugged and replugged it in it was gone. I’ve not had the same problem since.
Nathan Vaughn –
Update: Received the replacement wicked fast! This mic is fantastic. So smooth, so natural. Although it is kinda pre eq’d and plug and play ready, it does respond well to eq changes and isn’t hard to work with like other mid range mids. The shock mount is meh. Looks good. Feels good. But Blue mounts are known for a shorter lifespan. Dont let that stop you from getting this amazing microphone.
Waiting on a replacement. First one has a nasty 100hz and below hum. I have cheap mics that don’t hum as much. Package was sealed so it’s not a janky return, it came from the manufacturer like that. Tried different cables, pre’s, etc. No good. I’ll update once I get the replacement. If it wasn’t for the hum, it’s one of the most natural sounding buttery smooth mics I’ve heard. Not in your face or pushy, yeah, I’m looking at you SM7B and NT1. If your mix is busy you’ll have to make it up a little bit but that’s an easy fix.
khashayar –
Doesn’t work
Avid Amazoner –
Great mic! for the price it’s pretty impressive
Datji –
Its good. Sounds nice. Goo good that it picks up every little noise too. Might need gate adjustment or something. Mic is pretty heavy, need sturdy mic arm. Pretty good so far.
Datji –
People, let me tell you… I have invested in this mic and WOW!! I have a semi deep voice in my opinion. I get get compliments on my voice all the time. And week this mic it compliments the hell out of my voice. If you really want some affordable or just want great work. Please invest! You can and will not go wrong with this awesome tool here!! I wish you guys the best with your craft!
Gordon Witty –
This is a solid mic, but for the money ($400), I should have leaned for an SM7b. While this is a very round sounding mic & the quality is great all around, there’s better options for $400.
All in all it’s a great mic, but surely weigh your options for the money.
Jordan –
(UPDATE: 08/30/2022)
I ended up getting a refund through Amazon (which I have still not received and it seems like they have no idea what’s happening with the order, so fun) and bought a new mic through Blue’s website. It got here faster than the one I ordered through Amazon, I paid less, and the one I got actually works properly and has the expected build quality of a $400 microphone. I am 100% confident that Amazon sent me a totally used/refurb mic and didn’t pay attention to that. Total incompetence. Amazon has not compensated me for this experience in any way other than offering a refund (which has also been a struggle) so I’m leaving this review at a one star, but it is NOT the manufacturers fault. My new microphone is the best microphone I’ve ever had and sounds amazing, and this is a great product, but Amazon just cannot deliver on certain things and apparently this is one of them.
(08/22/2022)
The microphone itself was damaged on arrival. I the body of the microphone was loose and there was something broken on the internals of the microphone that you could hear rattling around on the inside of the microphone. This was all things that I noticed literally 3 seconds after the microphone was out of its packaging. Keep in mind for the rest of these discoveries I bought the microphone BRAND NEW!
Against my better judgement I took the shock mount out of the package and put it on my boom arm and proceeded to set everything up and… The mic worked. The mic sounded good and everything so I continued to use it for the next 4 or so hours, until I noticed that the capsule itself was rotated around, which to my knowledge, is not something that is supposed to happen. At this point I was already certain I would have to get a refund or a replacement so after I noticed this, I started the process. It only goes downhill from here of course.
While putting the microphone and the shockmount and everything back in the box, I noticed that there were a bunch of stickers on the box that were peeling, and on one side it was taped on. I peeled it off and saw a bunch of faded print underneath and damage to the box itself. After all of this, I have come to the conclusion that I received a refurbished or heavily used product when I purchased a new one. I brought this to Amazon Customer Support’s knowledge and they said that they cannot send me a new one, they can only give me a refund. Which, at least they were able to give me a refund (still going through that process as of writing this review) but I wanted a replacement sent, because as I said before, I do like this microphone a lot. I contacted Blue Customer Support about this and was never given a response. So I am a little concerned about what is going on with this order.
I am going to purchase another microphone after I get my refund, and if that one arrives in a similar condition as the previous microphone, the review shall stay the same and I’ll never touch any other blue product with a six foot pole, as well as some serious phone calls being made to Amazon’s (so far) lack luster Support team. However If I finally get the microphone that I was promised the first time I bought one, then I’ll review the microphone for what it is.
Mario d. –
Originally, I had attempted to cancel the order to get the cheaper version but was late to the punch. Ended up being a blessing in disguise as the microphone quality sounds amazing.
I had an old Blue Spark microphone from back in 2011 and it broke while I was moving place to place over the past few years. This microphone was far better quality which I didn’t know I was missing until I used this one. Very clear and crisp sound, capturing only what I need it too and not all the extra crap in the background.
They say this one has an almost vintage sound to it, but with my current effects rack, I can’t be sure. All I know is it’s got some class to it and I’m so glad I got it. I had been away from music for 3 years and since purchasing this, I’ve been recording week to week on a regular basis. Definitely happy with this and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to up their quality of their vocal performance.