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.
Joey –
a decent mic I think which picks up low end really well without the exaggerated high mids of say a D112. Unfortunately I get a loud ground/ earth hum sometimes when using this mic and only this mic
Dok –
It took a while before I decided to get this instead of any one of the other microphones I was considering. I was looking for a microphone that is unique (bandmates do not own) and inexpensive and, also, a microphone that is not available in my country. Just like you, I read reviews — as many as I can find. But this unpopular mic doesn’t have a lot. I read one negative review somewhere about this mic having a design defect, that it distorts with vibration (he has his mic clipped to the rim). I figured, I wouldn’t want this or any of my mics to vibrate while I record the drums so I thought it wouldn’t be an issue for me (I plan to investigate this someday if it is true). I was specifically searching for a mic that would go outside my kick drum. I was already happy with my mxl a55 inside and all I needed was either an inexpensive condenser mic or a dynamic kick drum mic. But the reason I was buying another microphone was because my at2020, which already sounded great outside my kick drum, is now broken. I thought, if I bought another cheap condenser mic, it might not last a long time, just like my at2020. So I went with dynamic and narrowed down my choices until I decided to get this. I needed one that will capture the low end and this goes as low as 20Hz, more than my mxl’s 30 Hz. High frequencies captured by this mic is only up to 10Khz. Mxl goes up to 15 Khz so that’s covered, although I did test the pl33 inside the kick drum and it has all the high end it needs. The ‘click’ attack of the beater is, for me, usually 3khz and 6khz, those are the frequencies i boost when needed in my mixes and I’ve been mixing my music with less painful high frequencies lately anyway so I don’t care about the ‘hype’! 🙂 finally, this was the most inexpensive mic in my list, it’s an electro voice, it sounds perfect for my needs, and the fact that it looks sexy is a welcome bonus! I’m happy and now I can go on with my life.. After I purchase a pair of mxl cubes!! :)) Hope this helps you. Just wanted to add a quick review for this seemingly unpopular microphone. Btw, I always use a tunnel for my kick out mic so I can bring the mic farther away and not get a lot of bleed from the rest of the kit. I hate how my mix sounds when I have to put a noise gate. I do it at the source as much as possible.
Rob Chismar –
Bought two and one didn’t work. I contacted EV only to be ignored completely. I am concerned the other one may stop working right when I most need it. Sure is a sexy well built mic on the outside.
wes –
Very easy and fairly quick. Mics came as described and sound great!! My Band THE SIRENS ARE CALLING have started using them to record our album!!! Thanks Again!!
Stephen Millar –
Background: I bought this PL33 to mount permanently inside a jazz kick drum which has the front head intact. (using a pipe clamp and some elastic bands, like a home-made kelly shu) I was attracted by the medium weight and size (2 inch diameter). Anyway, it sounds so good I bought another one for my main kit, and sold my Beta 52.
Sound: Other mic’s in this price range have a peak around 100-125Hz, which is too high for kick. The PL33 peaks around 60-80, which is perfect. (Same as the B52). The upper peak isn’t as extreme as the audix or shure, which I like. Heavy metal drummers looking for ‘click’ may prefer the audix, or you can use this mic with an EQ boost at 4K. I’ve played a few larger gigs with my rock kit where the engineers were initially hesitant to use my built in mic, but they tried it liked the sound. I’ve used the mic without any additional EQ and it sounds great, or it can be tweaked if desired. Never had any issues with noise or distortion – just clean, solid kick drum tone.
TomVette –
Bass drum mics are important. Many low costs mics have poor definitiion and a lot of boom. This EV PL33 mic delivers good tone and definition and while it may not carry the prestige of a top of the line Audex or Shure it delivers the sonic goods of clear definition and attack with tone, punch and dynamics. Highly recommended.