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Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio MicrophoneRetail Solutions, LLC

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Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications,Black

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Purchase options and add-ons

Recommended Uses For Product	Streaming, Singing
Brand	Audio-Technica
Model Name	Audio Technica
Connectivity Technology	Wired
Connector Type	XLR
Special Feature	The Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone is ideal for project/home studio applications, provides high SPL handling, wide dynamic range and extended frequency response, and is the price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technology. See more
Compatible Devices	Any Recording Programs, Audio Interface
Color	Black
Included Components	microphone
Polar Pattern	Unidirectional

About this item

The price/performance standard in side address studio condenser microphone technology
Ideal for project/home studio applications; The noise level is 20 dB SPL
High SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatility
Custom engineered low mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient response
Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source. Output connector: integral 3 pin XLRM type

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From the manufacturer

Cardioid Pattern

Condenser

XLR Output

Side-address Microphone

Overview

AT2020

The AT2020 is ideal for all types of content creators, from musicians and podcasters to streamers. This side-address condenser mic handles high SPLs effortlessly. With a cardioid polar pattern, this quality mic delivers unmatched sound and reliable performance without any unwanted background noise.

Perfect Mic for Creators

With its studio-quality articulation and intelligibility, the AT2020 is ideal for musicians, streamers, podcasters, and other content creators.
Critically Acclaimed Sound

This is the iconic mic that brought professional audio into the home studio at an affordable cost.
State-of-the-Art Design

Built to provide the consistent, reliable performance you expect from Audio-Technica.
Pivoting, threaded stand mount

Attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone.
Sound source isolation

Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source.
Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm

Provides extended frequency response and superior transient response.

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

AT8458a Microphone Shock Mount

Attenuates noise, shock and vibration transmitted through mic stands, booms and mounts. Compatible with 3/8"-16 and 5/8"-27 threaded stands.

LEARN MORE
AT8175 Microphone Pop Filter

The custom-designed AT8175 microphone pop filter clips onto the front of the mic to provide added protection against plosives. Designed to fit 20 Series vocal microphones.

LEARN MORE
AT8700 Adjustable Microphone Boom Arm

Attach your favorite microphone to this professional-quality boom arm to add versatility to your setup and free up space. Includes four USB cable clips, four XLR cable clips, and a table clamp.

LEARN MORE
AT8314 Premium Microphone Cable

Audio-Technica Premium Microphone Cables are engineered for maximum signal transfer and minimum loss. Available in 1.5', 3', 6', 10', 15', 20', 25', 30', 50' and 100' lengths.

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	This Item Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone, Ideal for Project/Home Studio Applications,Black	Recommendations Audio-Technica Microphone AT2020 Pro Cardioid Capacitor, Black,Large, XLR	dummy Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone, Black	dummy RØDE NT1 Signature Series Condenser Microphone with SM6 Shockmount and Pop Filter - Black	dummy RØDE NT1 5th Generation Large-diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone with XLR and USB Outputs, Shock Mount and Pop Filter for Music Production, Vocal Recording and Podcasting (Black)	dummy Audio-Technica AT2040 Hypercardioid Dynamic Podcast Microphone (at 2040), XLR,Black
	Try again! Details Added to Cart	Try again! Details Added to Cart	Try again! Details Added to Cart	Try again! Details Added to Cart	Try again! Details Added to Cart	Try again! Details Added to Cart
Price	$99.00	$99.00	-13% $129.00 List: $149.00	$159.00	$249.00	$99.00
Delivery	Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16	Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16	Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16	Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16	Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16	Get it as soon as Thursday, May 16
Customer Ratings	4.713,317	4.7363	4.7359	4.7130	4.8388	4.6675
Sound quality	4.5	4.8	4.9	4.4	4.5	4.7
Value for money	4.6	—	—	4.5	4.4	4.7
For gaming	4.3	4.8	4.9	—	—	5.0
Sold By	Amazon.com	Amazon.com	Amazon.com	Amazon.com	Amazon.com	Amazon.com
power source	Corded Electric	Corded Electric	Corded Electric	Corded Electric	Battery Powered	Corded Electric
connectivity tech	Wired	XLR	USB	XLR	USB, XLR	XLR
connector type	XLR	XLR	USB	XLR	USB, XLR	XLR
model number	AT2020	AT2020	AT2020USBX	NT1SIGNATUREBLACK	NT1 5th Gen	AT 2040
audio sensitivity	37 decibels	120 decibels	30 decibels	4 decibels	45 decibels	-53 decibels
noise level	20 decibels	—	—	4 decibels	4 decibels	0 sones
signal-to-noise ratio	74 decibels	37 decibels	80 decibels	78 decibels	80 decibels	76 decibels
hardware platform	—	—	PC	—	PC, Mac	Laptop

What's in the box

microphone

Product guides and documents

User Manual (PDF)

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Looking for specific info?

Product information

Audio Sensitivity

37 dB

Item Weight

1.3 Pounds

Microphone Form Factor

Microphone Only

Item dimensions L x W x H

9.6 x 9.6 x 2.6 inches

Power Source

Corded Electric

Material

Metal

Signal-to-Noise Ratio

74 dB

Number of Channels

Noise Level

20 dB

Product Dimensions

9.6 x 9.6 x 2.6 inches

Item Weight

1.32 pounds

ASIN

B0006H92QK

Item model number

AT2020

Customer Reviews

4.7 13,317 ratings

4.7 out of 5 stars

Best Sellers Rank

#175 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments)
#7 in Multipurpose Condenser Microphones

Is Discontinued By Manufacturer

Date First Available

June 12, 2007

Department

Musical Instruments

Manufacturer

Audio-Technica

Language

English

Warranty & Support

User manual Manual [PDF ]

Feedback

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Product Description

Audio-Technica’s stringent quality and consistency standards set the AT2020 apart from other mics in its class. Its low-mass diaphragm is custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response. With rugged construction for durable performance, the microphone offers a wide dynamic range and handles high SPLs with ease. The AT2020: the new standard for affordable side-address studio condensers.

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 74 dB.

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5

13,317 global ratings

How customer reviews and ratings work

Customers say

Customers like the appearance, value, and performance of the microphone. For example, they mention it looks decent, works well, and is a budget-friendly introduction to the world of XLR microphones. That said, some complain about the connectivity, saying that it doesn't come with an XL cable. Opinions are mixed on the quality.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

595 customers mention515 positive80 negative

Customers like the sound quality of the microphone. They mention that it sounds clear, clean, and crisp. They say it's easy to make sound amazing with very little work. Customers also say it works for vocals, acoustic instruments, and podcasting. They appreciate the cardioid pickup pattern that effectively isolates sound sources. Overall, customers say it is a good starter microphone and a great starter in XLR mics.

"...The audio quality on this one is pristine requiring me to use no voice effects from my rodecaster duo to reach a quality sound...." Read more

"...The AT2020 has a great sound quality that makes my recordings sound as if I was co-hosting a podcast." Read more

"...It feels like a mic which will last. It captures my voice in a very natural way, with a slight bit of a bass roll off to prevent muddiness...." Read more

"...Sound quality is amazing. Don't forget to work on your environment too though!" Read more

281 customers mention253 positive28 negative

Customers find the value of the microphone to be very good for the money. They say it offers a budget-friendly introduction to the world of XLR microphones. Customers also say the quality of the mic is unbeatable for the price and worth the extra set up.

"...I think it's well worth the price." Read more

"...need an audiobox or some such set up to handle the XLR it is worth the extra set up. Sound quality is amazing...." Read more

"...brand pop filter would do, they're very generic, common, and inexpensive. When I mention pop filter, in that I also mean windscreen...." Read more

"Worth money and it have nice weight to it and the build design" Read more

207 customers mention166 positive41 negative

Customers like the performance of the microphone. They say it works well, is reliable, and is suitable for various tasks. Some mention that it works fantastic for Discord or in-game communication, and that it's responsive and usable.

"...It's done a great job at performing for all the tasks I've used it for whether it be for dm'ing my dnd games or recording my voice for games...." Read more

"Upgraded to this mic several months ago and it has shown no problems at all. Once it was set up I never had to worry about it ever again...." Read more

"...for use in making music, podcasting, and voicovers it is a good condenser microphone. Also, if you get this, it's a sensitive piece of technology...." Read more

"Works and sounds great" Read more

198 customers mention183 positive15 negative

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the condenser mic. They mention it's made of good material, it has heft, and it'll last a long time. Some say it'd improve production quality tremendously.

"...The AT2020 is no exception. First off the build quality is excellent. It feels like a mic which will last...." Read more

"...your money's worth, not to mention Audio Technica is an internationally trusted brand...." Read more

"Worth money and it have nice weight to it and the build design" Read more

"...and whistles of pricier models, its reliable performance and decent build quality make it a respectable choice for beginners looking to elevate..." Read more

54 customers mention54 positive0 negative

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the microphone. They mention that it looks decent, is nice looking, and has a great sound. Some say that the outer Amazon sleeve looked completely fine. Overall, most are happy with the quality and performance of this product.

"...is wanting to use this microphone for streaming as it will look amazing on a stream and it will sound even better than it looks!" Read more

"...It sounds clean and crisp. No static or noise. You can feel the quality by the weight of it...." Read more

"...BTW, the outer Amazon sleeve looked completely fine, no holes or tears -- so I have to assume this happened before my order went out...." Read more

"...Again, used a bit more gain and was really surprised how crisp and clean it was. Recording Guitar usually requires two mics in my opinion...." Read more

46 customers mention46 positive0 negative

Customers find the microphone excellent for studio work, perfect for their needs, and great for music projects. They say it's more than sufficient for home projects and podcasting. Customers also say it’s well worth their research and a good setup for small time recording.

"...Almost any different brand pop filter would do, they're very generic, common, and inexpensive...." Read more

"...It has also been amazing for use in things like Discord for gaming and my friends have certainly noticed the difference as well between this mic and..." Read more

"...reliable performance and decent build quality make it a respectable choice for beginners looking to elevate their content creation game...." Read more

"...it to record music out of a portable recorder, and it is perfect for recording my guitar. Awesome for casual use." Read more

63 customers mention35 positive28 negative

Customers are mixed about the mic quality. Some mention that it's nearly perfect for podcasting, streaming, or recording voice for videos. However, others say that it is not good, not even decent, and is basically a brick. It only comes with the mic and a tool to attach it to an.

"...It's great for gaming/streaming/voice calls/anything really. Audio-Technica has never failed to deliver good quality products to me." Read more

"...• It struggles with plosives and you could move the mic further away to combat this, but you would need the mic closer to combat the high self noise..." Read more

"...Glad to see that it now says it comes with the mic stand adapter to go from 5/8" to 3/8"...." Read more

"First, USB microphones suck, don't know why most of them are stuck using micro-USB because that crap breaks after the second use, XLR however just..." Read more

51 customers mention0 positive51 negative

Customers are dissatisfied with the connectivity of the microphone. They mention that it does not come with an XLR cable, mount, or stand. They also say that it requires an xlr connection and does not include any accessories.

"...It requires an xlr connection and 48v phantom power. If you want something more plug and play accessible try getting the usb version of this mic...." Read more

"...Now what stinks about this is that it DOES NOT COME WITH AN XLR CABLE OR STAND (hence the 4 stars rather than 5)...." Read more

"Great mic I just wished it came with a cable option and instructions on how to use and set up with a stand (stand recommendations)." Read more

"...Be aware that it doesn’t come with any accessories, just the microphone and a carrying case. You will need to buy an XLR cable...." Read more

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Dakota Courtney

Awesome bang for buck.

Reviewed in the United States on March 25, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

This microphone was an excellent upgrade from the previous one I was using. Prior to this one I was using a maono caster cardoid microphone. The audio quality on this one is pristine requiring me to use no voice effects from my rodecaster duo to reach a quality sound. The microphone itself has a heavy feel with metal construction. It's done a great job at performing for all the tasks I've used it for whether it be for dm'ing my dnd games or recording my voice for games. I should note this is not a great product for plug and play gaming purposes. It requires an xlr connection and 48v phantom power. If you want something more plug and play accessible try getting the usb version of this mic. Overall though 10/10 would recommend it.

One person found this helpful

Helpful

M Otis Beard

So Much Bang for Buck

Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

I do home recording, and started out using a Shure SM58. . . which is a great microphone, but it's a stage mic, not a studio mic. Switching to the Audio-Technica AT2020 upped my game immediately. Both mics are industry standard, with the AT2020 occupying the low-end throne for studio mics, and the SM58 being the stage standard, but the AT2020 is just far more suitable for studio work. Bottom line is that there is no other microphone out there that can offer you the AT2020's performance at a similar price.

Helpful

Eridania Ramirez Salas

El mejor en su gama.

Reviewed in the United States on April 24, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Es la edición 2023, aún no he hecho pruebas largas, pero las dos grabaciones que he hecho arrojan grandes expectativas. Cuando fue lanzado fue el mejor y aún en 2024 sigue dando batalla.

Helpful

Translate review to English

Max

Great well balanced microphone

Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Upgraded to this mic several months ago and it has shown no problems at all. Once it was set up I never had to worry about it ever again. The AT2020 has a great sound quality that makes my recordings sound as if I was co-hosting a podcast.

Helpful

Botik

Good budget microphone for beginners and amateurs!

Reviewed in the United States on March 9, 2023

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

I will have two reviews on here, the "Basic Review For Beginners" and the "Audiophile Review." I will also have a section after the basic review that talks about the required equipment you need/should buy/obtain and hopefully already have (unlikely) to properly utilize the microphone.

-Basic Review For Beginners-

The AT2020 (XLR) Cardioid Condenser Microphones is perfect for beginners and newbies! The AT2020 is a good starter microphone but perhaps not the best, but it will still give you your money's worth, not to mention Audio Technica is an internationally trusted brand. For the use by beginners, amateurs, and 'some' semi-professionals (not really recommended for that last category) who are looking for a budget microphone for use in making music, podcasting, and voicovers it is a good condenser microphone. Also, if you get this, it's a sensitive piece of technology. Be careful with it and do your research, trust me.

-Equipment Information-

You will need/have to buy additional equipment to use this. Now this is not the company trying to screw you over (except not providing you with an XLR cable, that's just rude). Buying any XLR Microphone requires that you buy equipment to go with it so it can properly function. You are entering the peripheral of the world of professional recording, congratulations, it's expensive. The equipment needed is as follows, assuming you have a computer, you better have a computer...
1. Three-Pin XLR to XLR balanced cable. This is usually the standard (most common) XLR cable used and found. One end will plug into your mic and the other must plug into our next item...
2. USB Audio Interface and/or dedicated mic preamp MUST HAVE 48V PHANTOM POWER FOR MIC TO OPERATE. The XLR plugs into this and then the interface plugs into your computer via USB. Most interfaces already have 48V switchable phantom power so don't let this disuade you from purchasing this mic. I recommend doing a little research on interfaces before making a final purchase.
3. Mic Stand - You need somewhere to put your mic, period. Make sure you get a stand with the right size grooves or whatever that term is.

Recommended/You Really Should Buy This Equipment:
(If you're using this mic and you want the best possible sound and/or you're doing it semiprofessionally, I highly recommend buying the following)
1. Pop Filter/Windscreen - This prevents something called "plosives" from distorting or peaking your audio, it makes it sound better. Certain consonants seem to be picked up by the mic very easily and create an uneven listening experience so pop filters can almost completely fix this. Almost any different brand pop filter would do, they're very generic, common, and inexpensive. When I mention pop filter, in that I also mean windscreen. They do the same thing with the tiniest of already minor differences. I've seen these things referred to as pop filter, windscreen, recording shield, sound absorbing foam cover, foam mic cover, acoustic filter, pop screen, pop shield, mic screen. Any of those and/or any combination of any of those words and you've found it. They all do the same thing with very minor differences. If you really wanna know the specifics, google.

2. Headphones - I would get studio headphones for mixing because most headphones have enhancement features that change the sound while studio headphones provide an accurate representation of the sound, being designed to have a flat frequency response. The headphones I use are Beyerdynamic DT 770 Studio 80 Ohm which is the exact same as the DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm except the Studio says "Studio" on the side instead of "Pro." I wanted to feel special, leave me alone. Also, the Audio Technica ATH-M40x are really good.

Now! For those of you curious about how the AT2020 compares in the ears of an audiophile, listen up...

-Audiophile Review-

• Condenser microphones by nature are more sensitive, but on the spectrum of condenser microphones the AT2020 is on the less sensitive end.
• It can handle loud sounds without distorting.
• The self noise (the noise the microphone makes by simply operating) is a little too loud in my opinion. It's 20 dB(A) which is on the louder side of professional condenser mics. Most are around 15-19 dB(A) I would say and that's pretty good. For some reason that one extra dba kills me. But I'm an audiophile and I notice things like that.
• This isn't an audio thing but it's durable and that's nice. Now don't go throwing it against a wall or intentionally dropping it for that will most likely break it.
• Only use it in a studio and/or controlled and/or low noise environment. It's not meant to be a stage microphone meaning not live performances. This isn't a critique but a tidbit of information.
• It's quite sensitive to handling noise, so try not to touch it while recording. Buy a shock mount to reduce noise from the floor!
• Please god soundtreat and soundproof your rooms, there is a difference.
• It struggles with plosives and you could move the mic further away to combat this, but you would need the mic closer to combat the high self noise but that would make plosives worse, so this is paradoxical... Pop filter I guess but even then pop filter only reduces the plosives so much. Don't get me wrong, pop filters can get rid of (my personal guesstimate based on experience being) around 80-85% which is good.
• Mic struggles with sibilant sounds but that's a little complicated for me to explain so... Google.
• Has very midrange audio specs so you do you.

OVERALL: Not bad... If you're willing to shell out a little more money for something better because you want to go professional, and you're 100% sure, then go ahead. But if you're unsure and this is you dipping your toe in the water, go ahead and buy the AT2020. It's pretty good for a beginner mic. Just please don't buy USB mics, those make me sad. Self noise is my biggest personal complaint. Plosives really aren't that bad though there are others that say different, I disagree, just get a pop filter. Pop filters or windscreens should just be mandatory requirements for owning a mic. Also, it's interesting how they don't provide you with an XLR cable, it's kind of just a common courtesy, one they don't extend. Overall, not bad.

112 people found this helpful

Helpful

Terrell Rodriguez

Good microphone

Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Good value for money it’s clear and durable good quality

Helpful

1001

Delivery on time

Reviewed in the United States on April 29, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Worth money and it have nice weight to it and the build design

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Ph_da_audi

Great !

Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

I recommend the product, it works perfectly!

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Elihu dai

Buena calidad

Reviewed in Mexico on April 8, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Excelente captación de audio y por el precio tiene buena calidad-precio

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Flavia

Muito Bom

Reviewed in Brazil on March 5, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Ele capta bem o violão e a voz, e funciona muito bem a função cardioide...

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Clutch_Lux

An Audio Gem for Professionals and Enthusiasts: Audio-Technica AT2020

Reviewed in Canada on July 22, 2023

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Score: 9.5/10

The Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone is a superb offering in the realm of audio recording, providing an exceptional blend of performance, durability, and value. Garnering a remarkable score of 9.5 out of 10, it stands as a notable choice for those seeking professional-grade audio.

The AT2020 shines brightly with its exceptional sound quality. Featuring a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, it provides extended frequency response and superior transient response. The cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, enhancing isolation of the desired sound source. This makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, from studio recording and podcasting to voice-over work.

Durability is a key strength of the AT2020. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand rigorous use over time. The body is well-built and solid, and the included pivot mount offers secure attachment and easy positioning.

One of the microphone's defining features is its affordability. Despite its professional-grade performance, the AT2020 is priced within reach of home studio users. This combination of high quality and accessible pricing makes it a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned audio professionals.

However, it's important to note that the AT2020 is an XLR microphone, meaning it requires an audio interface or mixer for connection to a computer. This could mean an additional expense if you don't already have such equipment. Additionally, while the microphone performs exceptionally in controlled environments, it might not be the best choice for on-the-go recording due to its sensitivity.

In conclusion, the Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone stands as a testament to quality and value in the realm of audio recording. Offering exceptional sound quality, durable construction, and a highly competitive price point, it's a worthy consideration for anyone seeking to elevate their audio recording capabilities. While it may require additional equipment for use, the overall value and performance of this microphone make it a standout choice in its category.

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Très bon produit

Très bien

Reviewed in France on April 21, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Absolument parfait, le son est époustouflant.
Ma femme adore ,j'en suis ravis également

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Gabriella Hanz

Microfono ad alta risoluzione

Reviewed in Italy on February 28, 2024

Style: AT2020Pattern Name: MicrophoneColor: BlackVerified Purchase

Vale la pena a prendere a chi vuole spendere il giusto, ma avere un microfono di alta qualità. Ottimo rapporto qualità prezzo.

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From the manufacturer

Cardioid Pattern

Condenser

XLR Output

Side-address Microphone

Overview

AT2020

Perfect Mic for Creators

Critically Acclaimed Sound

State-of-the-Art Design

Pivoting, threaded stand mount

Sound source isolation

Custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

AT8458a Microphone Shock Mount

AT8175 Microphone Pop Filter

AT8700 Adjustable Microphone Boom Arm

AT8314 Premium Microphone Cable

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Customer Review: Best XLR mic for the price, hands down!

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Customer Review: THIS IS THE BEST MIC I EVER HAD

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Know this before buying this AT2020 USB+ Mic

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Beginners - Use this Tip to Get the Best Sound!

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