Our link to the AT-2020<\/a><\/strong> is an affiliate, meaning we may earn a commission should you buy through it. Fear not, though – affiliates never cloud our judgement and we always review fairly. <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The model I’m reviewing is a Cardioid condenser studio XLR mic. There is a USB version available, too, though I’ve never tried it. Based on my experience of how these things tend to work, it’ll probably be quite similar but with a different cable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The “Cardioid” part is what’s known as a polar pattern<\/a>, and means it should be used by one person. Don’t worry; you can still share it, just not at the same time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Mics tend to be built and to work in two ways – dynamic or condenser<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I need to make some sweeping generalisations to write this part succinctly, so here they are: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Dynamic mics are typically more durable in their build, as well as more forgiving in poor-sounding rooms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer over which kind of mic is “best”. Judge them on a case-by-case basis (which is literally what you’re doing, given you’re reading this AT-2020 review – well done!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Condenser mics are powered by Phantom Power<\/a>, also known by its less glamorous name, 48v. You don’t need to know anything other than that, but if you’d like to, I’ve linked to Sarah’s handy guide on this mysterious force. <\/p>\n\n\n\n XLR mics can’t plug directly into your computer so you’ll need a digital recorder<\/a>, audio interface<\/a>, or mixer<\/a>. Some of these come in USB form, so you can record into your computer with the AT-2020 – just not without an additional device. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whatever additional device you choose, it’ll need to have a Phantom Power\/48v button on it. The good news is, most do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You’ll also need an XLR cable and a boom arm or mic stand to use the Audio-Technica 2020. If you’re already worried about this shopping list growing at an alarming rate, let’s switch gears and talk money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n On its own, you’ll get an AT-2020<\/a> <\/strong>for $99. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Its USB alternative (cleverly named the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+<\/a><\/strong>) is available at the same price – $99.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Audio-Technica](\"https:\/\/www.thepodcasthost.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/at2020.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat is the Audio-Technica 2020?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Why Use a Condenser Mic? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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What Will I Need to Use the AT-2020?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cost of the Audio-Technica 2020<\/h2>\n\n\n\n