Microphone
Audio Technica At2020
Strumtrove Review
The Audio-Technica AT2020 remains one of the best entry-level studio condenser microphones available, offering professional-grade clarity, solid construction, and versatile performance across vocals and instruments.
Audio Technica At2020
- Reviewed against 53 other instruments & gear
- Site average rating: 4.5/5
- Price & availability confirmed at retailer
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- Cardioid condenser polar pattern for side/rear noise rejection
- Custom large-diaphragm capsule with low-mass design
- High SPL handling up to 144 dB
- Wide, extended frequency response (20Hz–20kHz)
- Low self-noise for clean, quiet recordings
- Requires 48V phantom power
- Durable all-metal construction
- Includes pivoting stand mount and storage pouch
Audio Technica At2020 Specifications
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional value for studio-grade sound quality
- ✓ Handles high SPL sources like guitar cabs and drums
- ✓ Detailed, natural vocal reproduction
- ✓ Effective rear/side noise rejection
- ✓ Solid build quality for the price range
Cons
- ✕ Requires phantom power and audio interface
- ✕ No included shock mount (sold separately)
- ✕ Can be sensitive to plosives without a pop filter
- ✕ Cardioid pattern only, no switchable options
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a side-address cardioid condenser microphone that has become an industry-standard entry point for home studios, podcasters, and project studios worldwide. Built around a custom large-diaphragm condenser element, it delivers a smooth, extended frequency response that captures vocals and instruments with clarity and detail rarely found at this price point. Its rugged, all-metal construction and fixed-charge back plate permanently polarized capsule reflect Audio-Technica's decades of transducer expertise. Designed for studio-quality recording of vocals, acoustic instruments, and voiceover work, the AT2020 uses a cardioid polar pattern to reject sounds from the sides and rear, minimizing bleed from other instruments or ambient room noise. This makes it an excellent choice for tracking in less-than-ideal acoustic environments, home studios, or multi-mic setups where isolation matters. The high SPL handling and wide dynamic range mean it performs well on everything from whispered vocals to loud guitar cabinets. Requiring 48V phantom power from an audio interface or mixer, the AT2020 pairs well with budget and mid-tier recording setups alike. It ships with a stand mount and pivoting mic clip, and its low self-noise combined with a low-mass diaphragm ensures a fast, accurate transient response. For musicians, streamers, and content creators seeking a reliable step up from USB microphones without breaking the bank, the AT2020 remains a benchmark recommendation nearly two decades after its release.
Customer reviews
I've used this mic for vocals, acoustic guitar, and podcasting. The clarity is way above what I expected for this price point. Paired with a decent interface, it sounds close to mics twice its cost.
Sound quality is fantastic and very natural. Only downside is you'll want to buy a shock mount separately since handling noise can bleed through the stand clip.
Been using this for three years now on vocals and guitar cabs. Extremely reliable, never had an issue, and the cardioid pattern really helps in my untreated room.
Needed phantom power which I didn't initially have, so factor in an interface cost. Once set up, though, the voice clarity is excellent and very broadcast-ready.
