Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone – Studio Recording & Podcast
AT2020
The AT2020 is an affordable microphone offering versatile features. The AT2020 is ideal for all types of content creators, from musicians and podcasters to streamers. This side-address condenser microphone offers critically acclaimed sound and handles high SPLs effortlessly. With a cardioid polar pattern, this quality mic delivers unmatched sound and reliable performance without any unwanted background noise. The AT2020 condenser microphone is the perfect solution for any home recording studio at an affordable price.
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.
The cardioid polar pattern reduces unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source. The AT2020’s ability to produce studio-quality sound with unwanted pops is ideal for podcasters looking to elevate their current podcast equipment for a more professional sound. In addition to podcast equipment, the AT2020 is an ideal streaming microphone, delivering crystal-clear communication during streaming sessions.
Whether you are looking for the best mic for podcasting or the best microphone for home music recording, the AT2020 is a high-quality microphone at an affordable price.
Accessories Included
AT2020 (black model): Stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch
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 price.
State-Of-The-Art-Design
Built to provide the consistent, reliable performance you expect from Audio-Technica.
A Few Points to Consider
XLR or USB?
XLR microphones are analog devices that require an XLR cable(1) that feeds the analog signal to an audio interface(2). The interface then converts the analog signal to digital and feeds the audio to your PC (3) for recording. Within USB microphones, all of the analog to digital conversion takes place within the microphone – no audio interface required. The digital signal is then fed via USB connection (1) directly into your PC(2).
The AT2020 is intended for use in applications where remote power is available. It requires 48V DC phantom power, which may be provided by a mixer or console, or by a separate, in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-channel and CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies. Output from the microphone’s XLRM-type connector is low impedance (Lo-Z) balanced. The signal appears across Pins 2 and 3; Pin 1 is ground (shield). Output phase is “Pin 2 hot” – positive acoustic pressure produces positive voltage at Pin 2. To avoid phase cancellation and poor sound, all mic cables must be wired consistently: Pin 1-to-Pin 1, etc. Avoid leaving the microphone in the open sun or in areas where temperatures exceed 110° F (43° C) for extended periods. Extremely high humidity should also be avoided. The AT2020 is a side-address fixed-charge condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern. It is designed for project/home studio applications. The microphone requires 48V phantom power for operation.
The cardioid polar pattern of the microphone is more sensitive to sound originating directly in front of the element, making it useful in controlling feedback, reducing pickup of unwanted sounds and providing isolation between performers. The output of the microphone is a 3-pin XLRM-type connector.
The microphone is enclosed in a rugged housing. The included stand mount permits mounting on any microphone stand with 5 /8"-27 threads. A soft protective pouch is also included. Operation and Maintenance
The AT2020 requires 48V phantom power for operation. Output is low impedance (Lo-Z) balanced. The signal appears across Pins 2 and 3; Pin 1 is ground (shield). Output phase is “Pin 2 hot”— positive acoustic pressure produces positive voltage at Pin 2. To avoid phase cancellation and poor sound, all mic cables must be wired consistently: Pin 1-to-Pin 1, etc. An Audio-Technica emblem is on the front of the microphone. Position this side of the microphone toward the sound source. In use, secure the cable to the mic stand or boom, leaving a slack loop at the mic. This will ensure the most effective shock isolation and reduce the possibility of accidentally pulling the microphone out of its mount. Avoid leaving the microphone in the open sun or in areas where temperatures exceed 110° F (43° C) for extended periods. Extremely high humidity should also be avoided.
Architect’s and Engineer’s Specifications
The microphone shall be a side-address fixed-charge condenser. It shall have a cardioid polar pattern with a uniform 120° angle of acceptance and a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. The microphone shall operate from an external 48V DC phantom power source. It shall be capable of handling sound input levels up to 144 dB with a dynamic range of 124 dB. Nominal open-circuit output voltage shall be 14.1 mV at 1V, 1 Pascal. Output shall be low impedance balanced (100 ohms). The output of the microphone shall be a 3-pin XLRM-type connector. The microphone shall be 162.0 mm (6.38") long and have a maximum body diameter of 52.0 mm (2.05"). Weight shall be 345 grams (12.1 oz). The microphone shall include a stand mount and a soft protective pouch.
Features
- The price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technology
- Ideal for project/home-studio applications
- 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
- AT2020 (black model) Accessories Included: Stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch
Specifications
| Element | Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser |
|---|---|
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Frequency Response | 20-20,000 Hz |
| Open Circuit Sensitivity | -37 dB (14.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa |
| Maximum Input Sound Level | 144 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D. |
| Noise | 20 dB SPL |
| Dynamic Range | 124 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 74 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa |
| Phantom Power Requirements | 48V DC, 2 mA typical |
| Weight | 12.1 oz (345 g) |
| Dimensions | 6.38" (162.0 mm) long, 2.05" (52.0 mm) maximum body diameter |
| Output Connector | Integral 3-pin XLRM-type |
| Accessories Included | Stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch |
| Accessories Included | AT2020 (black model): Stand mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands; 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch |
| Audio-Technica Case Style | R7 |
UPC
- 042005134953


