Does the AT2020 need phantom power?

Yes. It is a condenser microphone and needs 48V phantom power from an audio interface, mixer or preamp. It will not work plugged straight into a computer.

Is the AT2020 good for vocals?

Yes. Its cardioid pattern and neutral response suit singing and speech. Keep it close and treat the room, since it picks up background noise.

The microphone and a stand mount. No shock mount, cable or case is included.

How does it compare with the Rode NT1?

The NT1 is a condenser with very low self-noise and usually ships with a shock mount and pop filter. The AT2020 is simpler and has no pad or filter switches.

Can it handle loud sources like drums?

Yes. It is rated for high SPL handling, so it works on drums and amps. Use a pad on your preamp if the signal clips.

Does it have a USB output?

No. It is XLR only, so you need an interface or mixer to connect it to a computer.

Where is the Audio-Technica AT2020 BK cheapest?

At Found Sound, for $102.72, as of our latest check.

Audio-Technica AT2020 BK

Best price now

$102.72at Found SoundChecked Nov 9

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Found Sound

Audio-Technica discount code →

Audio-Technica AT2020 BK

Best price now

$102.72at Found SoundChecked Nov 9

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Found Sound

Audio-Technica discount code →

Ask our agent about this product

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Price facts

Last seen at $102.72 at Found Sound on Nov 9.

Our take on the Audio-Technica AT2020 BK

The AT2020 is a large-diaphragm cardioid condenser microphone aimed at home and project studios. It handles high sound pressure levels and a wide dynamic range, so it works on loud sources as well as quiet ones. It ships with a stand mount and no shock mount or case. Against rivals like the Rode NT1 and Blue Yeti, it is a plain XLR condenser with no USB, no onboard controls and no accessories beyond the mount, but its clean, neutral capture and sturdy build keep it a common first studio mic.

Best forHome and project studio recordingVocals and acoustic instrumentsPodcasters and streamers with an audio interfaceLoud sources like drums and amps

Pros

Cardioid condenser with a large diaphragm
Handles high SPL without distortion
Wide dynamic range
Neutral, detailed capture
Solid metal body
Includes a stand mount

Cons

Needs an audio interface or mixer with phantom power
No shock mount or case in the box
No pad or low-cut filter switch
Picks up room noise and handling rumble
XLR only, no USB

Audio-Technica AT2020 BK prices at every store

Found SoundNew
In stockShips from Australia · priced in AUD (A$149.00) · duties may applyReturn policy
$102.72Checked Nov 9
Visit Found Sound

What reviewers say

Owners and reviewers treat the AT2020 as a dependable entry-level studio condenser. They praise its clear, balanced sound and build for the money, and many note it needs phantom power and a quiet room to shine.

What people mention

SoundPraisedReviewers describe a clear, balanced tone that flatters vocals and acoustic instruments.
BuildPraisedOwners report a solid metal body that holds up to regular use.
NoiseCriticisedUsers say it picks up room noise and handling rumble without a shock mount.
SetupMixedIt needs an interface or mixer with phantom power, which surprises some first-time buyers.
AccessoriesCriticisedBuyers note the box has only a stand mount, with no shock mount or case.

About the Audio-Technica AT2020 BK

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is a large diaphragm cardioid electret condenser microphone. It is made for project and home studio applications.

It handles high sound pressure levels and has a wide dynamic range. A stand mount is included.

Type: Electret condenser microphone
Diaphragm: Large diaphragm
Polar pattern: Cardioid
Model: AT2020 BK
In the box: Stand mount

Questions and answers

Does the AT2020 need phantom power?: Yes. It is a condenser microphone and needs 48V phantom power from an audio interface, mixer or preamp. It will not work plugged straight into a computer.
Is the AT2020 good for vocals?: Yes. Its cardioid pattern and neutral response suit singing and speech. Keep it close and treat the room, since it picks up background noise.
What is in the box?: The microphone and a stand mount. No shock mount, cable or case is included.
How does it compare with the Rode NT1?: The NT1 is a condenser with very low self-noise and usually ships with a shock mount and pop filter. The AT2020 is simpler and has no pad or filter switches.
Can it handle loud sources like drums?: Yes. It is rated for high SPL handling, so it works on drums and amps. Use a pad on your preamp if the signal clips.
Does it have a USB output?: No. It is XLR only, so you need an interface or mixer to connect it to a computer.
Where is the Audio-Technica AT2020 BK cheapest?: At Found Sound, for $102.72, as of our latest check.