Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone Operational Manual
- October 27, 2023
- Audio-Technica
Table of Contents
Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone
Introduction
The AT2020 stands out from other mics in its class thanks to Audio-exacting Technica’s quality and consistency requirements. Custom-engineered for longer frequency response and enhanced transient response, its low-mass diaphragm. The microphone has a tough design for long-lasting performance, a large dynamic range, and it can easily manage high SPLs. New benchmark for reasonably priced side-address studio condensers is the AT2020.
FEATURES
- Designed 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
- Rugged design and construction for reliable performance
- Pivoting, threaded stand mount attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone
DESCRIPTION
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.
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is specified.
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*
- IMPEDANCE: 100 ohms
- MAXIMUM INPUT SOUND LEVEL: 144 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.
- NOISE1: 20 dB SPL
- DYNAMIC RANGE (TYPICAL): 124 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
- SIGNAL-TO-NOISE RATIO1: 74 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa*
- PHANTOM POWER: 48V DC, 2 mA typical
REQUIREMENTS
- WEIGHT (LESS ACCESSORIES): 1 oz (345 g)
- DIMENSIONS: 38″ (162.0 mm) long, 2.05″ (52.0 mm) maximum body diameter
- OUTPUT CONNECTOR: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type
- ACCESSORIES FURNISHED: Stand mount for 5/8″-27 threaded stands; 5/8″-27 to 3/8″-16 threaded adapter; soft protective pouch
FAQs
Does it come with a stand or an XLR cable?****
No, it does NOT come with an XLR cable or a stand.
Are you able to use this as a USB mic / be able to put this into your Macbook pro?****
If you use a conversion box, yes. This specific model uses an XLR interface because it requires phantom power (three prong, cylindrical shape). You can spend about $100 on a USB conversion box and use this model. I Use an AKAI professional ($250+) which can handle up to 4 mics and 4 outputs ALONG WITH the USB cable.
Is this a one-directional mic? I was told that a one-directional mic is best for recording podcasts.****
Yes, and it’s very important to be speaking INTO THE BLUE LIGHT behind the screen. That’s the one-directional “sweet spot.” And, you didn’t ask, but I record (as do most of my professional colleagues now stuck at home) into the free software “Audacity.”
is it possible to listen to a downloaded .mp3 instrumental (NOT instrument) on my PC and hear that while I record over it using this mic?****
Yes, using the monitor dial on mic itself, toggling between PC sound and your own, or setting accordingly until balance suites you. (using plugged in headphones into mic).
Does this work with windows 10? I need someone who actually uses it on win10 machine, not someone selling them. I have at2020 not working w/ win10.****
Yes, I’m running Windows 10 with Audacity recording software. By the way, with this one-directional mic, it’s very important to be speaking INTO THE BLUE LIGHT behind the screen. That’s the one-directional “sweet spot.” And, you didn’t ask, but I record (as do most of my professional colleagues now stuck at home) into the free software “Audacity.”
How is the AT2020PLUS different from the regular AT2020?****
I have both. The AT2020 was great for general recording purposes, but for singing or voiceover I do LOVE the monitor jack and the slider. The slider will let you balance what comes into your monitor (your earbuds, headphones, whatever you plug in to the jack) so you can choose how much of the mic versus the PC comes into your ears. This gets important because if you rely on the PC to feed your voice back to you, there is a slight signal delay that can get awkward. You don’t have to use the monitor, and it doesn’t affect the act of recording.
Is this one the XLR version of this mic? I want to use it on a Mackie ony blackjack…****
Yes, it has the three-prong XLR connector.
Does this mic come by itself or comes along with the items shown in the photo?****
It comes with accessories shown. These items are part of the factory included accessories. If you are looking for a better price, please give us a call for a coupon. The Sound Professionals 800-213-3021.
Could this mic work for in game chat while gaming? I would rather use this, than some gaming headset with a crappy mic anyway!****
The problem with condenser microphones are that they pick up everything, that includes mouse clicks, keyboards, the world itself around you. Granted a lot of streamers will use these Mics for twitch but you could annoy your teammates with the sounds outside of your voice by using a mic like this. You could get an Astro gaming headset if you want legit sound.
Hey, I have a Behringer audio interface with this microphone – I get audio but the blue light isn’t on (on the mic). Is this a problem or is it fine?****
I have the AT2020USB+ version of this mic, it’s USB and it has a blue light. I am buying this XLR version to run through my USB interface like my guitar does, so the sound is only coming from one device.
is it good for recording rap vocals****
If you are good at rap it will aid you in your quest. It records whatever you throw at it. I think any vocal will need a certain amount of processing in your computer/analogue recorder. This mic will give you a clear vocal. For the price you can’t get better.
how do you connect to a mac? I have a scarlet audio interface all connected but I can’t hear anything in logic pro****
You will have to enter the audio settings in logic pro and configure it to input from scarlet. (I’ve used scarlet for years before upgrading to Behringer x32).
What size is the headphones plug?****
Mine can with a 1/4” plug and a 1/8” adapter, I think.
what stand does it connect with?****
It has its own adapter that fits most standard microphone stands.
Could I record my keyboard with this mic?****
If you have a direct output from your keyboard to your interface, you will get better quality sound. If you want to record the sound coming from the built-in speakers on your keyboard with a microphone, this could work, but not the best choice. If you already have an interface, I would rather buy two Shure SM-57s and set each one Infront of the speakers to get stereo.