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.
MichaelJay –
An industry standard.
fillgee2 –
Highly overrated. Don’t waste your time.
DiamondGoddess! –
This is my second 441. All-time favorite mic! Gives the closest sound to an unmiced voice or instrument. Excellent in any conditions in which I have used it live and in studio. Looks super cool, too; very Star Trekian. Fast shipping. Knowledgeable and prompt response to questions by Sennheiser, they are very available to their customers. Mic is so well made and solid, and the case is sturdy. Comes with individualized output graph and substantial mic stand clamp. 2 year manufacturer’s warranty. Worth every penny. ADORE!
Nitsla –
I am a bass-baritone and use this mic to record vocals in a space with bad acoustics where a condenser had been giving me less than stellar results. It’s sound is phenomenal and very easy to sit in a mix. The built in high-pass filter is a bit heavy handed so for my voice I set it on the first position after “M” and cut the lows in the mixer; if you have a higher voice you can probably set it 2 positions after “M’. You CAN get really close to this mic with minimal proximity effect boominess but for recording I get the best results about 3 inches away. The bright switch is excellent, I always leave it on. This is probably going to be both my recording AND live mic for life!
C. Goulet –
Those in the know will recognize this amazing microphone. For the rest, let me clarify: Sennheiser…say it with me…ahh…isn’t that better? This microphone is the top of the line. Yes, it’s expensive, and worth every penny. Not as durable as a Shure 58, but then again, it’s not meant to be. The signal/noise ratio is astonishing, separation outside the pattern is excellent, isolating just what’s in front of it, and if looks are important, you’re not going to be disappointed. This is an excellent choice for so many applications. The build is what we’ve all come to expect from German engineering and manufacturing – there is nothing better. Take good care of it, and you will only need to buy one, ever. Simply one of the most elegant and functionally perfect pieces of equipment I’ve ever owned.
John DePace –
I normally don’t write reviews – but I saw this listing and just had an experience with the 441 so I thought – what the heck…
I’ve had my 441 for 20+ years and have used it on and off over the years in a variety of applications. But just last week I was having trouble getting a sound I wanted from a floor tom. After trying 4 or 5 mics that should have done the job but didn’t, I pulled out the 441 and put it up – and it was great – really clear, focused, and a nice full tonality that included great stick definition on the head. Also, minimal bleed from the other drums. The next day I had a male “screamer” type kid in the studio. I don’t get a lot of these types of clients, but I’ve been using a Shure SM7 lately on this type of voice and getting a good sound. I saw the 441 still on the tom from the day before and thought I’d give it a shot, just to see. I was really amazed at how much better the track sounded. Really much clearer – and with a whole lot more thickness – not mud or hype – just a clean thick sound that held up really well to the high SPL and didn’t require any eq.
Like everyone else, I’ve ended up with a variety of mics over time. Until last week I forgot how much I liked the 441 – and just how versatile it is. Lesson learned, I shouldn’t get too comfortable with the way I do things.
When I bought the 441 20 years ago (about $500 if I remember correctly) I was recording to 1/2″ tape and thought it sounded great. The amazing thing is that now that we record digitally, it sounds better to me than it did then – and better than a lot of other newer mics I have.
I still get excited about new mics and will try and add some new tube and ribbon mics. And $800 can buy a lot of good mics today. But this dynamic is still something special. Bottom line is – if anything happened to my 441, I’d replace it.
Amazon Customer –
Probably the best dynamic microphone for vocals ever made. My first experience with one of these was on an FM station. The combination of microphone and the station’s audio processing brought out parts of my voice I didn’t know I had. In the time since then, I’ve used one for vocals on an AM station and for voice-tracking scripted stories for television. The noise-rejection super-cardioid design minimizes any problems with room acoustics, but insists that the person directly address the microphone and be cautious about plosive voicings. Any pro will already know the technique. I bought this one a few years ago on fears it may soon go out of production. As it was, I located and bought what Sennheiser says was the last of the original mic holders for the 441, a beautiful clear holder that was somewhat fragile on stage, and was replaced by the ugly black lump they include today.