Of course, it can be used for recording acoustic and classical guitars as well, which is what I used it for before getting some of the other microphones I own. XLR microphones are analog devices that require an XLR cable (1) that feeds the analog signal to an Cardioid microphone with Micro-HDMI output for high-resolution recording, on iPad or iPhone (with Lightning connector) or on the computer via USB It's also just really affordable. I mean, when it comes to finding the best cheap microphones, a strong USB compatible product made by such a reputable company is always going to be a solid path. There is a lot going for the Audio Technica AT2020USB+ and next we'll dive into what it's best used for.

Typical condenser microphones use a lightweight membrane/diaphragm (1) and a fixed plate (2) that act as a capacitor.The AT2020 USB is based on the design of Audio-Technica’s critically acclaimed AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone. Like the AT2020, it features a low-mass diaphragm, custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response. High-output internal headphone amplifier delivers superior clarity and musical detail as well as more volume overall The AT2020 USB has always been my go-to recommendation as far as USB microphones go, not because of its versatility, since it only features a cardioid polar pattern, but rather because of the audio quality; Compatible with Windows 8, Windows 7, Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS X and iOS 7.02 or later (Lightning port required)

Since the AT2020 is a plug n’ play microphone, you should have absolutely no issues getting it to work; simply connect it and that’s it, you can now record! This mic is a must-see for anyone wanting to start recording on their laptop or home computer, or if you’re doing some podcasting. So if you haven’t already, you should take a look at the several great features that the AT2020USB+ microphone has to offer. Top 5 Features of the Audio Technica AT2020USB+: If you're looking for something easily comparable but at a more affordable price, the Audio Technica AT2005USB is the microphone for you, coming in at around half the cost. Cheaper condenser microphones can be difficult to manage, and so Audio Technica wisely built the AT2005 to be dynamic, focusing all efforts on strong mid-range quality for a single person.Fixed Cardioid Polar Pattern which improves isolation of the intended sound source and reduces extraneous noises. The low self-noise of the AT 2020USB+ makes it perfect for use with the most advanced state-of-the-art digital recording equipment. Well known for consistency and reliability, the Audio Technica AT2020 studio condenser microphone has developed this USB microphone version to be both first-class and convenient.

You will have to get an Audio Interface and XLR microphones anyway, and what you spent on the USB microphone will be wasted. Audio QualityWith low self-noise, the AT2020 USB is perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipment. Audio-Technica’s state-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques ensure that the microphone complies with the company’s renowned consistency and reliability standards. The small footprint of the stand and the compact size of the microphone’s body is something that I can really appreciate as someone who frequently flexes between office and remote working. The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X is small enough to fit comfortably in my bag and is built sturdy to the point where I’m not worrying about it during commutes. If you have a cramped gaming or office desk, then you won’t have to worry about the stand taking up that much room. Just be warned that it could sit slightly lower than where your mouth may align. It’s nothing that had a significant impact on me, as the Cardioid condenser has a decent range to it, but it’s something to bear in mind. Should you buy the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X microphone? Buy it if… Of course, additional equipment can increase the cost of your overall setup which means USB microphones are often the more affordable option, as they have a built-in recording interface and preamp. That said, XLR microphones offer greater flexibility as they can record multiple vocals or instruments simultaneously and can also be used live - all while producing professional standard sound.

But that’s really it; it’s a microphone with no bells and whistles that jut does what it’s supposed to at a very low price.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 has been the standard microphone for most home recording studios for years now due to its great sound quality at a very affordable price. The sound quality is great; it does have a slight bump in the higher mid frequencies that can bring out some crispiness from time to time, but this can definitely be EQ’d out. The AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone offers a professional sound and a wide dynamic range with unmatched versatility. Featuring a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, this microphone provides extended frequency response and superior transient response. These features make the microphone ideal for all types of content creators, like musicians recording vocals at a home studio, or for social media content creation.