• Cardioid polar pattern, ultra-thin diaphragm, transformerless preamplifier circuitry.
• Switchable pad (25dB, 15dB) for very high input SPL sources.
• Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response, no crossover distortion, and minimal harmonic and intermodulation distortion
• Low self-noise and extended frequency response.
• Three-position switchable low-frequency filter reduces background noise and counteracts proximity effect
• Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response, no crossover distortion
• Cardioid polar pattern, ultra-thin diaphragm, transformerless preamplifier circuitry
• Switchable pad (25dB, 15dB) for very high input SPL sources

Buy/More Info

These professional condenser microphones for studio recording and live applications have all the big-time features packed in an extremely compact form factor. They are sold as a matched pair-perfect for stereophonic recording for a price you wouldn’t even consider it bought you a single one. The C-2s utilize a low-mass diaphragm for ultra-wide frequency response and ultimate sound reproduction and their inconspicuous size makes them perfect for acoustic instruments, overhead applications, pianos, and similar. The cardioid pickup pattern effectively eliminates feedback, plus there is switchable low frequency roll-off and -10 dB input attenuation. Ultra low-noise transformerless FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion, while a gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector assures the highest signal integrity. Custom microphone stand adapters, windscreens, stereo-bar, and transport case are all included, making these condenser microphones ready for action straight out of the box! If super-compact size is paramount but you don’t want to compromise on the performance, then a pair of C-2s is the answer.

Buy/More Info

Buy/More Info

The Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone features an all-new proprietary design, with the proven reliability of Audio-Technicas modern engineering and manufacturing expertise.Ideal for project/home studio applications, the AT2020 features a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response plus the ability to handle extremely high SPLs. The AT2020 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern to allow isolation of the desired sound source. The mic features excellent performance specifications, including a flat, extended frequency response (20 20,000 Hz), high SPL handling capability (144 dB), and a wide dynamic range (124 dB). Every aspect of the AT2020 has been tailored for a very smooth, natural sound while ensuring maximum accuracy, making it a perfect complement for todays digital recording equipment. The AT2020 comes standard with a pivoting, threaded stand mount, which attaches securely for easy and precise placement. The microphone requires 48V phantom power that may be provided by a mixer/console. In addition, the AT2020 measures 6.38 inches long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.05 inches, weighs 12.1 oz., and comes with a soft protective carrying pouch.Audio Technica AT2020 FeaturesThe price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technologyIdeal for project/home-studio applicationsHigh SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatilityCustom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient responseCardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound sourcePivoting, threaded stand mount attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Astonishing sound and value for well under 100 bucks!
I was especially fortunate and got a new one for around [...]

making this beautiful-sounding vocal mic

a spectacular bargain for the home-recording musician or audio-blogger.

I don’t know of any truly-decent large-diaphragm condensers with

the full 1″ diaphragm size for under [...] (don’t be a sucker for the

super-cheapies that look so big & cool). The AT2020 has a 2/3-inch diaphragm size, but

sounds better & bigger than anything else I have ever heard in the price range.

If you can spend [...]on a wonderful AT2035 or maybe a Studio Projects mic,

then by-all means, do it.

But the AT2020 [...]on all competition under [...], IMO.

I use it with the Studio Projects VTB1 Mic Preamp and the sound is B-I-G.

The AT2020 and the VTB1 are definitely a sweet pair together.

Although, I suspect any decent preamp used properly with the AT2020

would sound pretty darn good.

And DO use a preamp, even if only a $30 Art Tube MP.

Count on buying the 2 items together.

The pre will “send your AT2020 to the gym”, by giving it

a thicker, fuller, BETTER sound.

The thing to remember with preamps is to

try to get close to the *loudest possible clean sound*

coming out of the preamp and generate

a BIG signal going IN to the recording device, which should

have its input gain quite LOW (maybe like “2″ or even “1″).

Watch your clipping/overload levels,

listen for any audible noise or distortion in the recording,

and make adjustments to cut those sound flaws, if they are present.

For vocals,

Experiment with going as loud as you can from the preamp while still sounding CLEAN,

until you find you particular setup’s “sweet spot”.

“Straight-up” dial-settings is often around where you end up.

The AT2020, used with a decent pre like the one I have (there are many others),

should get you a serious studio vocal sound

with pro-quality clarity and little coloration.

IMO, it’s got to be the world champ of under-[...]studio Condenser Mics,

at least right now (in 2009),

until something more miraculous comes along.

And if you are presently recording vocals with

something like an SM58, moving up to the AT2020

with a modest preamp will absolutely blow your mind–Much “bigger” sounding,

with much finer detail, presence and clarity.

I hear this mic is good for miking electric guitar cabs

and various percussion too.

But voice is its forte, I believe.

It’s a gem.

5 Stars For the price this is it!
I have a couple other condensor mikes with shock mounts in the same price range, but this one is the best. Not sure you can do much better for anywhere near the price. I loaned one to a friend and he immediately returned his mike to the shop for one of these. Nice neutral sound, solid construction, I use it with a tube amp to get some non-linear compression for voice.

5 Stars Great Value
Let’s face it…I’m just a hobby musician. A guy in his mid-30′s who has tinkered with music most of his adult life. I’ve played both as a solo artist and with bands. I’ve also been fortunate enough to spend time in actual recording studios with true professionals. None of this qualifies me as an expert…but I do have a certain level of familiarity on the subject.

I purchased this mic to supplement my home studio. I was hoping to get a little better sound than my usual stable of dynamic mics provide. I think I got pretty lucky with this purchase – it’s my understanding that in this particular price range, you shouldn’t expect a whole lot. I mean, it’s just a microphone, right?

What I will say is that I was certainly satisfied with my purchase. I’ve used this microphone in conjunction with a tube preamp on a handful of recordings with great success. I bought this with the intention of using it for vocals, but I’ve found that I actually prefer it to record my acoustic guitar – this microphone picks up all the sound that I’m looking for from my acoustic – it’s the nice, mellow, and full bodied sound that I hear when I’m playing, but that I was never able to capture before. In terms of its originally intended use, I felt is was only a slight improvement over the SM58 that I typically used for vocals – however, I wouldn’t put too much stock into my assessment, as vocals are not one of my strengths when it comes to music (let’s face it, autotune was created for a reason, right?)

Granted – everyone is going to have different opinions of this product, and I happen to think it works great for those of us on a budget. In terms of value – it is a great product for a fantastic price. I liked this microphone so much, I plan on buying at least one more.

4 Stars Great Mic! My 1st Studio mic!
So happy to get my new mic it sound great but i have not rec with it so i give 4 star for the design, the sound, the price etc… so if u are look for a Studio mic that are around $80 THIS IS THE ONE!

4 Stars AT2020
This is a wonderful microphone. I use it to record interviews in the field instead of a shotgun set up. It is more hassle to use because it requires phantom power. But it provides a clean, clear, warm voice print.

I also plan to use it to record my children’s musical performances here at home. So for home concerts and for my field work, this mic works for me.

DD

Buy/More Info

The Audio Technica AT2041SP Studio Pack – Studio miking essentials! The AT2041SP Studio Pack offers two versatile 20 Series studio condenser mics for use in home, project and commercial studios. Equally at home with digital and analog recorders, these mics deliver remarkable specs and superior build. The critically acclaimed AT2020 side-address condenser is ideal for vocal and instrument applications, while the new AT2021 small-diaphragm condenser is a natural for acoustic instruments, overheads, hi-hat and piano. Audio-Technica’s stringent quality/consistency standards set both microphones apart from other mics in their class. Each offers a wide dynamic range and handles high SPLs with ease. An innovative pivoting stand mount is included along with a microphone clip and protective pouches. The Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone features an all-new proprietary design, with the proven reliability of Audio-Technica’s modern engineering and manufacturing expertise. The AT2020 is a rugged side-address condenser microphone that represents an exceptional value while offering the performance advantages of a high-quality studio microphone. Ideal for project/home studio applications, the AT2020 features a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response plus the ability to handle extremely high SPLs. Designed to provide versatility in the most demanding recording applications, the AT2020 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern to allow isolation of the desired sound source. The mic features excellent performance specifications, including a flat, extended frequency response (20 – 20,000 Hz), high SPL handling capability (144 dB), and a wide dynamic range (124 dB). Every aspect of the AT2020 has been tailored for a very smooth, natural sound while ensuring maximum accuracy, making it a perfect complement for today’s digital recording equipment. The AT2020 comes standard with a pivoting, threaded stand mount, which attaches securely for easy and precise placement. The microphone requires 48V phantom power that may be provided by a mixer/console or a separate, in-line source such as the Audio-Technica AT8801 single-channel and CP8506 four-channel phantom power supplies. Output from the AT2020 is via a low-impedance, 3-pin XLRM-type connector. In addition, the AT2020 measures 6.38 inches long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.05 in., weighs 12.1 oz., and comes with a soft protective carrying pouch. About Audio-Technica – Celebrating over 40 years of audio excellence worldwide, Audio-Technica is a leading innovator in transducer technology, renowned for the design and manufacture of microphones, wireless microphones, headphones, mixers, and electronics for the audio industry.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Good price, good sound.
This mic package fell perfectly into my price range and I decided to try them out, and I’ve got to say, they get they job done in my simple home studio. I’m glad I got them.

5 Stars Amazing sound and quality for the price!
These two microphones have impeccable quality for their cost.

I highly recommend these mics to any new musician, youtuber

wanting better audio, or anything like that.

5 Stars Both have excellent sound response and quality.
We’re using in a church worship service, one for picking up spoken voice and one for picking up an acoustic guitar and variously also our children’s choir.

Both microphones work excellently, have nice clear noise-free sound, pick up even children’s voices quite nicely without having to overdrive the sound system, and appear to be fairly solidly built.

My only disappointment with them is the AT2020 side-address condenser – I thought that it work as a mic from either side, but it is unidirectional. There was nothing in the advertising telling me that it should work from both sides, it was just an assumption I made, which assumption comes from the fact that I know very little about microphones. Perhaps it’s a known fact that “side-address” means one side only, I don’t know.

I don’t offer that as a complaint, only as a helpful guide in case someone else who doesn’t know much about microphones is wondering how it works.

As I said, sound-quality-wise, these are both wonderful, and we’re getting another set for the church.

5 Stars For the price just click “buy”
the AT2020 is great for voice, the 2021 for guitars,etc the combo price just makes the quality for price untouchable. I use the AT2021 for passivly recording groups in a room sometimes, the tiny size and solid construction makes it a take anywhere mike

Buy/More Info

Professional condenser microphones for studio recording and live applications have features in an extremely compact form factor. The C-2s utilize a low-mass diaphragm for ultra-wide frequency response and ultimate sound reproduction. The cardioid pickup pattern effectively eliminates feedback, plus there is switchable low frequency roll-off and -10 dB input attenuation. Ultra low-noise transformerless FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion, while a gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector assures the highest signal integrity. These condenser microphones work right out of the box with the included custom microphone stand adapters, windscreens, stereo-bar and transport case. Ultra low-noise transformerless FET input eliminates low-frequency distortion Gold-plated 3-pin XLR connector for highest signal integrity

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Great little mics!
For over a year, I have used these for recording acoustic and classical guitar. The sound is crystal clear, with very low noise. I get better results than with the much more expensive Neumann KMi I had been using. Throw in the included padded case, windscreens, and stereo mic adapter bar and it’s one of the best deals in recording.

5 Stars Great pair of condensers.
I was shopping for a pair of condenser microphones for my Tablas and these turned out to be perfect. I connected these to a Behringer mixer (Phantom power is needed), and they perform, the clarity is amazing. The ability to control the gain on the mics individually is very handy, I usually switch the mic I use for lows to a less sensitive setting. These come with a great carrying case, wind screens and a stereo bar. The Stereo bar and mic holders fit standard and euro mic stands, just remember to unscrew the brass adapter in the stereo bar to fit standard mic stands. It took me a trip to Sam Ash to figure that one out.

Overall a great pair of condenser microphones for the price, they are superior to any standard microphone I have used.

Buy/More Info

The Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone features an all-new proprietary design, with the proven reliability of Audio-Technicas modern engineering and manufacturing expertise.Ideal for project/home studio applications, the AT2020 features a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response plus the ability to handle extremely high SPLs. The AT2020 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern to allow isolation of the desired sound source. The mic features excellent performance specifications, including a flat, extended frequency response (20 20,000 Hz), high SPL handling capability (144 dB), and a wide dynamic range (124 dB). Every aspect of the AT2020 has been tailored for a very smooth, natural sound while ensuring maximum accuracy, making it a perfect complement for todays digital recording equipment. The AT2020 comes standard with a pivoting, threaded stand mount, which attaches securely for easy and precise placement. The microphone requires 48V phantom power that may be provided by a mixer/console. In addition, the AT2020 measures 6.38 inches long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.05 inches, weighs 12.1 oz., and comes with a soft protective carrying pouch.Audio Technica AT2020 FeaturesThe price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technologyIdeal for project/home-studio applicationsHigh SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatilityCustom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient responseCardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound sourcePivoting, threaded stand mount attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone

Buy/More Info

The Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Microphone offers studio-quality articulation and intelligibility.The AT2020 USB plugs right into your computers USB port, and functions seamlessly with your favorite recording software. Equipped with a USB digital output, the AT2020 USB is perfect for home studio recording, field recording, podcasting, and voiceover use.Based on the renowned AT2020The AT2020 USB is based on the design of Audio-Technicas critically acclaimed AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone. Like the AT2020, it features a low-mass diaphragm, custom-engineered for extended frequency response and superior transient response.With low self-noise, the AT2020 USB is perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipment. Audio-Technicas state-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques ensure that the microphone complies with the companys renowned consistency and reliability standards.Experience AT2020 USB. Plug it in and transform your sound.Audio-Technica AT2020 USB FeaturesSide-address studio condenser with USB digital output (Windows and Mac compatible)Crystal-clear, natural sound for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover useCustom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient responseCardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound sourceLow self-noise perfectly suited for sophisticated digital recording equipmentIncludes tripod desk stand, pivoting stand mount, USB cable & storage pouch

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Unbeatable Mic At An Unbeatable Price
This here is truly one of those hidden gem type products that you just don’t really get to appreciate unless you have one for yourself. This is a great investment for anyone looking to do ANY type of recording on the casual level, vocals in particular. But why buy, you might ask?

1) This mic is USB powered. This is pretty much the prime reason that this is the perfect mic for the casual/beginning level user. If you were to buy a regular condenseor mic, or even the regular version of the AT Condenser Mic, you would have to have additional equiptment to power it. For those who, like me, know very little about audio equipment, you would end up paying for far more then you originally expected to spend and most likely been all kinds of confused about how to use it. Being USB powered is truely a God-sent, because all you need to do to make it work is plug it in. Theres no program to load, no instructions to follow, and best of all no sweat to break. As soon as you plug it in, the computer acknowledges it just like any other UBS device and you go on with your buesiness. You dont even need to sit and “safely” eject the thing, just yank it out and your done. No damage done to you computer or your mic. Best of all, the UBS cord is pretty standard, so you can easily replace it if the one that comes with it gets damaged.

2) The price. A lot of professional level condenser mics are pretty expensive, like around three hundred dollars at the cheapest level. Granted, that’s a somewhat random number, but again, for the casual user, that’s not exactly wallet friendly. I got mine in a music store for one fifty. I wish I had looked online for one a little cheaper, but it was still a wise investment. Thus far I haven’t seen another mic this good for this cheap.

3) Durability. If you have any experience with audio equipment, mics in particular, you know that you need to be gentle with it when handling. I got my mic a good year and a half ago, and it’s traveled with me a lot, sometimes in less gentle conditions then I would like. Its been bumped, dropped, and even sat on, yet it still runs strong. The only fragile thing this thing has on it is the legs that prop it up.

4) Sound Quality. Ok I lied, THIS is the best reason to get this mic. I started out doing vocals with a regular stage mic and one thing I can honestly say is that the quality was absolutely terrible. It was grainy, smothered, and I had to almost whisper to make sure my levels didn’t peak while recording. The purpose of a condenser mic is to pretty much rectify all that. This one does it over and over again. My recordings come out crisp and professional sounding, and thus far, no one has been able to tell that I did all the recording my my basement with nothing but the mic, my laptop, and some quite time.

So if you looking for great quality for a affordable price, look no further then

Audio Technica AT2020USB. I have yet to find something I don’t like about this thing. I am a very satisfied customer, and I can almost guarantee you will be too if you decide to get one too.

Peace

5 Stars Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Condenser USB Microphone Works Great
Works great! Easy to use. True plug and Play even with Windows 7. I have been using to record on Windows 7 using Audacity.

5 Stars Worth every dollar plus more!!!
I got my mic the other day and decided to lay some bars down. This was my first mic that i have bought and i must say that i beleive i picked the best one!! easy plug and play picks every up perfect. it is way more than i expected. all im wating for now is my pop filter and my stand. this microphone is worth the money people. do not think about it just get it. you will not regret it. i would reccomend this to anyone.

4 Stars Great mic, poor mic mount
I bought this microphone to make PowerPoint narrations and software demos with Camtasia. The performance of the mic is excellent I don’t have a lot of other mics to compare it to, but I did compare it to the Sure SM58 and the AT2020 had a much warmer, fuller sound. It also picked up a lot more room noise, so make sure you have a nice quiet place to record.

USB compatibility: PowerPoint 2007 does not recognize this microphone, but Camtasia does (and of course, Audacity). PowerPoint will record with it, but you can’t set your levels, so it’s a pain (I know none of you are going to record in PowerPoint, but I am frustrated with the spotty USB mic support in it and I just want to let people know). Did not have to install any drivers on my XP box.

The only flaw is the microphone mount that it comes with. You can’t tighten it enough, so the mic can rattle around in the mount. This is also true for the Samson SP01 Shockmount that I bought to use it with. So, you might need to get a spacer (another reviewer suggested a garden hose gasket).

4 Stars 2nd one works great
First Mic arrived d.o.a. in a well packaged, undamaged box. Amazon customer service was simply awsome. UPS came to my house and picked up defective one the very next day, and the replacement arrived 2 days later. The at2020 looks and works great and amazon is great too Looking for a high quality mic that looks great on your desk? This is a good choice.

Buy/More Info

The Perception 120 is a 2/3″ diaphragm true condenser microphone that offers solid build quality, outstanding performance, and excellent value. The low-mass diaphragm delivers a clear sound with accurate sonic detail. A switchable 20 dB preattenuation pad and bass cut filter make the Perception 120 an excellent choice for a wide range of recording and live sound applications. Backed by AKG’s six decades of experience in making microphones and input from sound engineers around the world, the Perception 120 now brings AKG studio quality to musicians and project studio applications. Specifications: • Type: 2/3″ diaphragm true condenser microphone • Dimensions: 53 mm dia. x 165 mm (2.1″ dia. x 6.5″) • Polar pattern: Cardioid • Frequency range: 20 to 20,000 Hz • Rated impedance: < 200 ohms • Sensitivity: 22 mV/Pa (-33 dBV) • Max. SPL: 130/150 dB (0/-20 dB) for 0.5% THD • Equivalent noise level: 22 dBA (IEC 60268-4) • Signal/Noise ratio (A-weighted): 72 dB • Preattenuation pad: 0 dB, -20 dB • Bass filter: 12 dB/octave at 300 Hz • Recommended load impedance: Greater than or equal to 1,000 ohms • Current consumption: < 3 mA • Power requirement: 48V phantom power • Connector: 3-pin XLR.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Great microphone!
I use this microphone to record acoustic guitar and vocals in Garageband. It’s plugged into an ART Tube MP phantom power/preamp which feeds into an M-Audio Fasttrack USB. It’s an affordable setup and sounds great to me.

If you are looking to record yourself in any capacity, I think this mic would do well for you. The mic picks up every overtone and nuance of the acoustic guitar and sounds MUCH better than plugging the guitar’s pickup directly into the M-Audio box.

Vocal recording with this mic is shockingly accurate (to me anyway). My previous mic was an off-brand dynamic which sounded dull in comparison to the AKG. For better or worse, this mic will record you EXACTLY the way you are.

The mic is well built and feels robust. Build quality is absolutely no concern with this mic, and that is primarily what steered me away from the MXL 990.

Some considerations on buying this (or any condenser) mic:

You must have a solid stand. It’s a pretty heavy mic and you don’t want to test the build quality by watching it crash to the floor.

You will need a phantom power & preamp source. Phantom power alone will not do the job.

These mics pick up EVERYTHING. If you breathe funny while playing guitar you’ll hear it on the recording. If you hit pickguard while strumming, this mic picks that up quite loudly. If you leave your cellphone on vibrate on the other side of the room, it’ll pick that up too. SO, if you can’t record in a relatively quiet room you’ll be amazed/frustrated with all that you hear in the recording.

You will want to buy a pop screen if you plan record vocals at all. These mics sound best if you speak/sing directly into them (as I understand) and doing so will produce a loud “puh” sound frequently. The answer is a $20 pop screen.

Downsides to this mic are primarily in the value department. The MXL 990 includes a shock mount and carrying case at the same price. The Perception 220 has a larger diaphragm, comes with the shock mount and carrying case, looks a bit cooler and costs about $80 more. A decent shock mount will cost $40 and I have yet to find the AKG-branded case for sale by its self online, so the price difference is well made up just by the included accessories. Realistically, I don’t see much of a need for the shock mount in my setup, and in the unlikely event that I carry the thing elsewhere I can just use the box/foam it came in.

Overall I’m quite pleased with this microphone. I’d give it 4.5 stars for the lack of a spider mount and case, but to me those are non-issues. This is a great mic from a great brand and I’m confident that if you buy it (and have no need for the shock mount/case) you’ll be just as happy as I am with your purchase.

5 Stars Excellent quality and underpriced
I would have valued this mic far above what it is being sold. Right off the bat, the construction is pro grade, all the way. Solid metal, heavy weight and a nice mat bluish silver finish. The sound quality is excellent. It records warm and rich vocals: running through a Digidesign Mbox 2 mini. It picks up every nuance and every breath. It’s almost too clear. Haven’t used it to record any instruments, only voice in studio. My voice sounds better on this than other mics I’ve used. Very very impressed. And it was well under $100!

5 Stars Lovely microphone
I was using a USB headset microphone for my LibriVox volunteer work. A few weeks ago, I upgraded to this AKG Perception 120 condenser microphone.

It is awesome. It sounds warm and full and has an overall beautiful sound. I’m very happy with this microphone. I should have upgraded a long time ago.

One warning: be sure to purchase a stand in the same order. I ordered my stand separately, so I had to hold the microphone while I used it for the first few days. It’s a heavy piece of equipment, and my arms got tired very quickly.

Buy/More Info