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Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone vs AKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone

Buy the AT2020 for a first home studio on a tight budget. Buy the C314 if you record multiple sources, need figure-8 or omni patterns, or want a mic that will not clip on loud sources. The AT2020 is a fixed cardioid mic at a low price; the C314 is a multi-pattern mic with a 1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule shared with the C414 XLS. No current prices were given for either mic, so compare live store prices before you buy.

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Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

5· 2 ratings

Choose the AT2020 if you want one dependable cardioid condenser for vocals and acoustic instruments at the lowest cost.

Pros
  • Low cost for a true side-address studio condenser
  • Cardioid pattern rejects sound from the sides and rear
Handles loud sources without distortion
  • Simple: one pattern, XLR output, no switches to set
    • Cons
    • Cardioid only, so no omni or figure-8 for stereo or room capture
    • No shock-mount included
    • Higher self-noise than the C314
    • No pad or low-cut filter
    AKG
    AKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone

    AKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone

    4.9· 17 ratings

    Choose the C314 if you need switchable polar patterns, very high SPL handling, or a matched pair for stereo recording.

    Pros
    • Four polar patterns cover vocals, room mics and stereo pairs
    • 155 dB max SPL handles drums and loud amps
    • Low self-noise and 147 dB dynamic range
    • Shock-mount included; factory-matched pairs available
    Cons
    • Costs much more than the AT2020
    • Heavier and larger, less convenient for travel
    • Needs 44 to 52 V phantom power
    • More switches to learn than a fixed-pattern mic

    What separates them

    Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR MicrophoneAKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone
    Polar patternsCardioid onlyFour selectable patterns (cardioid, omni, figure-8, hypercardioid)
    CapsuleSingle low-mass diaphragm, side address1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule, same as the C414 XLS
    Max SPLHigh SPL handling, figure not stated155 dB
    Self-noise20 dB SPLSignal-to-noise ratio 86 dB-A
    Frequency responseExtended response, range not stated20 Hz to 20 kHz
    Included accessoriesMic onlyShock-mount included
    BuildRugged body for studio useAll-metal grille and housing, 300 g
    PriceBudget tierProfessional tier, costs more

    Price history

    • Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone: lowest $99.00 on Oct 29.
    • AKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone: lowest $527.40 on Oct 29.

    Specs compared

    SpecAudio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR MicrophoneAKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone
    Connector Type—Balanced XLR
    Interfaces—XLR
    Wireless Technology—Wired
    Included Accessories—Shock-mount
    Power Source—Phantom power (44 to 52 V)
    Format—Condenser
    Subtype—Condenser
    Type—Studio microphone
    Diaphragm Size—1-inch dual-diaphragm capsule
    Signal Type—Analog
    Use—Studio recording
    Impedance—200 Ohms (Electrical impedance)
    Show all 26 specsShow fewer specs
    SpecAudio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR MicrophoneAKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone
    Form Factor—Condenser
    Durability—All-metal grille and rugged housing
    Material—All-metal grille
    Depth—43 mm
    Height—160 mm
    Weight—300 g (mic only), 285 g (without cable and conn…
    Width—55 mm
    Max SPL—155 dB
    Frequency Response—20- 20000 Hz
    Dynamic Range—

    Questions and answers

    Which is better for recording vocals at home?
    Both work well. The AT2020's cardioid pattern and low price make it the easier first buy. The C314 gives you omni and figure-8 plus lower self-noise if you want more options later.
    Do I need the multi-pattern features?
    Only if you record room sound, stereo pairs, or two singers facing each other. For a single voice or one acoustic instrument, the AT2020's cardioid pattern is enough.
    Which handles loud sources better?
    The C314. Its 155 dB max SPL means drums and loud guitar amps are unlikely to clip it. The AT2020 handles high SPL but Audio-Technica does not publish a figure.
    Is the C314 worth the extra money?
    Yes if you need multiple patterns, a shock-mount, or matched pairs for stereo. If you just need one cardioid mic for vocals, the AT2020 covers that at far less cost.
    Which has lower noise?
    The C314, with an 86 dB-A signal-to-noise ratio. The AT2020's self-noise is 20 dB SPL, which is fine for close-miked vocals but audible on quiet sources.
    Can I use either with a basic audio interface?
    Yes. Both are analog XLR condensers that need phantom power, which most USB audio interfaces supply.

    More comparisons

    • Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone vs Rode NT1 5th Generation Condenser Microphone
    • Rode NT1 5th Generation Condenser Microphone vs AKG C314 Multi Pattern Condenser Microphone
    147 dB (A-Weighted)
    Sensitivity—20 mV/Pa
    Signal To Noise Ratio—86 dB-A
    color—Multicolor
    size—6.3" x 2.2" x 1.7"