Name: Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus
Brand: Audio-Technica

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus

Overall score

6.3

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you prefer to buy a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Audio Performance

6.8

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Microphone type

What it is: The overall microphone class intended for uses such as studio work, lavalier recording, handheld speech, or instrument capture.

When it matters: When you are choosing the right microphone style for studio work, interviews, streaming, or instruments.

Importance: LOW

studio

Transducer type

What it is: The transducer technology used to convert sound into an electrical signal.

When it matters: When you are choosing between condenser, dynamic, or ribbon behavior for your room and voice.

Importance: LOW

condenser

Diaphragm size

What it is: The diameter of the microphone diaphragm that reacts to incoming sound pressure.

When it matters: When you compare small and large diaphragm microphones for vocal detail, room tone, or transient response.

Importance: LOW

16 inch / mm

Capsule type

What it is: The capsule construction used inside the microphone to capture sound.

When it matters: When you compare different capsule designs for tone, detail, or recording style.

Importance: LOW

single

Sensitivity

What it is: The output level produced by the microphone for a given sound pressure reference.

When it matters: When you need enough output level without driving your preamp too hard.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity

6.8

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Connection type

What it is: The connection standard used to link the microphone with recorders, mixers, phones, or computers.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to plug directly into the device you actually record with.

Importance: LOW

USB

Output connector type

What it is: The type of output connector used by the microphone for sending its audio signal.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to connect to a specific kind of input on your gear.

Importance: LOW

USB-b

Headphone output

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a headphone output for direct monitoring.

When it matters: When you want to hear your own voice directly while recording or streaming.

Importance: LOW

3.5 mm audio jack

What it is: Indicates whether a 3.5 mm audio jack is available for monitoring or direct connection.

When it matters: When you want to plug headphones or a cable directly into a standard 3.5 mm socket.

Importance: LOW

6.35 mm audio jack connector

What it is: Indicates whether a 6.35 mm audio jack connector is present on the microphone or included interface.

When it matters: When your headphones, mixer, or instrument chain relies on a 6.35 mm jack connection.

Importance: LOW

Recording

6.6

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Supported sample rates

What it is: The digital sample rates supported by the microphone for recording or monitoring.

When it matters: When you need the microphone to support the sample rates used in your recording workflow.

Importance: LOW

44.1, 48 kHz

Supported bit depths

What it is: The digital bit depth values supported by the microphone for audio capture.

When it matters: When you want more digital recording resolution for editing or processing later.

Importance: LOW

16 bit

Audio interface sample rate

What it is: The audio interface sample rates supported by the microphone for digital capture or monitoring.

When it matters: When you need the microphone interface to support the sample rate used by your recording or streaming setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Audio interface bit depth

What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.

When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.

Importance: LOW

Signal-to-noise ratio (DAC)

What it is: The signal to noise ratio of the integrated DAC or headphone interface stage.

When it matters: When you monitor through the microphone headphone output and want that digital path to stay quiet.

Importance: MEDIUM

Pickup Patterns

3.2

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N. of polar patterns

What it is: The number of selectable pickup patterns available for different recording situations.

When it matters: When one microphone has to cover solo voice, room sound, and interview style setups.

Importance: MEDIUM

Cardioid pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a cardioid pickup pattern for front focused capture.

When it matters: When you want to isolate one speaker in front of the microphone for podcasts, calls, or streaming.

Importance: MEDIUM

Omnidirectional pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers an omnidirectional pickup pattern for 360 degree capture.

When it matters: When you want to capture everyone around the microphone instead of one voice from the front.

Importance: MEDIUM

Hypercardioid pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a hypercardioid pickup pattern with narrower front focus.

When it matters: When you want stronger rejection of sounds coming from the sides in a noisy room.

Importance: LOW

Bidirectional pattern

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone offers a bidirectional pickup pattern for front and rear capture.

When it matters: When you record two people facing each other with one microphone between them.

Importance: LOW

Controls & Features

5.3

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Mute function

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.

When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.

Importance: MEDIUM

Onboard gain control

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.

When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.

Importance: MEDIUM

Volume control levels

What it is: The available volume level or volume adjustment provided directly on the microphone or its interface.

When it matters: When you want direct volume adjustment on the microphone or its built in interface.

Importance: LOW

Flat DSP mode

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a flat DSP mode without tonal processing.

When it matters: When you want a neutral sound profile before adding your own EQ or processing.

Importance: LOW

DSP presets

What it is: The number of built in DSP preset modes available for different sound profiles.

When it matters: When you want quick tone changes for voice, streaming, or different recording scenes.

Importance: LOW

Power

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Phantom power required

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone needs external phantom power to operate normally.

When it matters: When you use the microphone with an interface or mixer that may not provide phantom power.

Importance: MEDIUM

Phantom power voltage

What it is: The phantom power voltage required by the microphone for proper operation.

When it matters: When you must confirm that your power supply matches what the microphone actually expects.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB bus-powered

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can be powered directly through its USB connection.

When it matters: When you want the microphone to run from a laptop or phone without a separate power supply.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery life

What it is: The expected operating time on battery power during portable or wireless use.

When it matters: When you use the microphone away from wall power for events, field work, or mobile video.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Design

7.4

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Height

What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.

When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.

Importance: LOW

Width

What it is: The overall width of the microphone body or its integrated base.

When it matters: When the microphone must fit between monitors, on a narrow desk, or inside a compact rig.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The overall depth or front to back thickness of the microphone unit.

When it matters: When front to back depth decides whether the microphone clears your screen or keyboard area.

Importance: LOW

Weight

What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.

When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.

Importance: LOW

Body material

What it is: The main material used for the microphone body or housing.

When it matters: When you care about how sturdy, premium, or lightweight the microphone body feels over time.

Importance: LOW

metal

Accessories

4.8

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Included accessories

What it is: The accessories supplied in the box with the microphone for mounting, protection, or immediate use.

When it matters: When you want the box to include the accessories needed to set up and use the microphone right away.

Importance: LOW

stand; cable; mount adapter; carrying case

Shock mount included

What it is: Indicates whether a shock mount is included to reduce vibration and handling noise.

When it matters: When desk vibrations or boom arm movement would otherwise travel into the recording.

Importance: LOW

Pop filter included

What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.

When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.

Importance: LOW

Windscreen included

What it is: Indicates whether a windscreen is included to reduce wind and breath noise.

When it matters: When you record outdoors or close to the mouth and want less wind or breath noise.

Importance: LOW

Cable length

What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.

When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.

Importance: LOW

Compatibility

8.6

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Android compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.

When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.

Importance: LOW

iOS compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with iPhone or iPad devices.

When it matters: When you want the microphone to work properly with an iPhone or iPad setup.

Importance: LOW

Windows compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Windows computers.

When it matters: When your recording or streaming setup runs on a Windows computer.

Importance: LOW

macOS compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with macOS computers.

When it matters: When your audio setup depends on a Mac or MacBook as the main recording machine.

Importance: LOW

Xbox compatibility

What it is: Indicates whether the microphone is explicitly compatible with Xbox consoles or controllers.

When it matters: When you want to connect and use the microphone with an Xbox console or controller.

Importance: LOW

Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus better than the average microphone?

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Includes mix control
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone lets you balance microphone audio and playback audio directly on the device.
When it matters: When game audio or playback needs to be balanced against your live microphone level.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
87 mW higher headphone output power
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (130 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.
What it is: The maximum power that the microphone headphone output can deliver to connected headphones.
When it matters: When your headphones need enough power to reach a comfortable monitoring level.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (130 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.130 mW vs 43 mW
1.1 m longer cable length
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a longer cable than the average microphone (3.1 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.
What it is: The length of the included or attached audio cable supplied with the microphone.
When it matters: When the microphone has to reach your desk, camera rig, or interface without extension cables.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a longer cable than the average microphone (3.1 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.3.1 m vs 2 m
32.6% lighter
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is lighter than the average microphone (386 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
Microphone only.
What it is: The total mass of the microphone with its included or attached parts.
When it matters: When you mount the microphone on a small arm, pack it for travel, or hold it for long sessions.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is lighter than the average microphone (386 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.386 g vs 573 g
23 mm shorter body
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
What it is: The overall height of the microphone body, stand, or supplied desktop structure.
When it matters: When the microphone has to fit under a monitor, inside a booth, or into a limited desk space.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.162 mm vs 185 mm
87 mW higher headphone output power
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (130 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.
Includes mix control
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
32.6% lighter
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is lighter than the average microphone (386 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
23 mm shorter body
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
1.1 m longer cable length
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a longer cable than the average microphone (3.1 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus worse than the average microphone?

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12 dB SPL lower limit
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (110 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
4 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (74 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
8 bit lower interface bit depth
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
No gain control
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
7 older release date
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is older than the average microphone (2,013 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
Not compatible with Android
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
No gain control
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone provides a built in control for adjusting input gain.
When it matters: When different speakers or scenes need fast gain changes without touching the interface.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include onboard gain control, the average microphone does.
8 bit lower interface bit depth
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.
What it is: The audio interface bit depths supported by the microphone for digital recording quality.
When it matters: When you want the microphone interface to support the bit depth used in your recording chain.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus supports a lower audio interface bit depth than the average microphone (16 bit vs 24 bit). The average microphone audio interface supports 24 bit.16 bit vs 24 bit
No mute function
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone has a built in mute control for quickly silencing the signal.
When it matters: When you need to silence the microphone instantly during live calls, streams, or meetings.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
12 dB SPL lower limit
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (110 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
What it is: The highest sound pressure level the microphone can handle before severe distortion occurs.
When it matters: When the microphone has to survive loud vocals, drums, brass, or close guitar cabinets.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a lower max SPL than the average microphone (110 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.110 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
Not compatible with Android
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone can work properly with Android phones or tablets.
When it matters: When you plan to use the microphone with an Android phone or tablet without trial and error.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether a pop filter is included to reduce plosive sounds during speech recording.
When it matters: When you record speech up close and want to reduce strong p and b bursts.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
4 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (74 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
What it is: The ratio between the useful audio signal and background noise produced by the microphone path.
When it matters: When you record in untreated rooms and want the voice to stay cleaner than the background noise.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus has a lower signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (74 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.74 dB vs 78 dB
7 older release date
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is older than the average microphone (2,013 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
What it is: The period when the microphone model was officially introduced to the market.
When it matters: When you want a newer microphone platform with current connectivity or software support.
Importance: LOW
Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is older than the average microphone (2,013 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2013 vs 2020

Expert reviews

tomshardware.com

22/06/2019

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser Mic Review

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is a highly versatile cardioid condenser microphone that bridges the gap between plug-and-play USB convenience and professional studio-quality performance. It features built-in thumb wheels for gain, volume, and latency-free headphone monitoring, making it an excellent all-rounder for streamers, podcasters, and solo musicians. Operating as a...Read more

trustedreviews.com

30/05/2023

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review: Budget Basics

The Trusted Reviews evaluation of the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ highlights a reliable, plug-and-play cardioid condenser microphone with durable, all-metal construction and balanced weight distribution for versatile mounting options. It provides studio-quality sound comparable to its XLR sibling, making it a strong choice for entry-level voice work. Conversely, the microphone lacks...Read more

podcastage.com

12/07/2025

Audio Technica AT2020 USB Plus Review / Test - Podcastage

The Podcastage Review highlights the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ as a highly capable, plug-and-play USB condenser microphone that offers excellent value at its $150 price point. Built with a heavy all-metal body and grille, it features a 16-bit/48kHz audio interface and an expanded frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, delivering a full, well-balanced sound that excels on voices, acoustic...Read more

askdavetaylor.com

18/03/2016

Review: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Microphone - Ask Dave Taylor

Dave Taylor’s review highlights the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ as a durable, "studio-quality" microphone offering exceptional sound and zero-latency monitoring via a 3.5 mm headphone jack, making it ideal for professional voiceover and clear audio recording. Key benefits include superior sound capture in untreated rooms and intuitive onboard controls, though it is considered...Read more

musiciannerd.com

29/09/2020

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review | Musician Nerd

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is reviewed as a highly versatile and professional-grade cardioid condenser microphone, earning an impressive score of 9.5/10. It is highly recommended for speech-based and vocal applications like podcasting, streaming, gaming, and YouTube voice-overs, while also demonstrating excellent capability in capturing musical instruments like acoustic guitars....Read more

musictech.com

30/07/2013

Audio Technica AT2020USB+ Review - MusicTech

The MusicTech Review gives the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ a high score of 9/10. The microphone is highly praised for its crisp and sweet high frequencies, a well-defined midrange, and a solid bass. The review notes that its sound quality is nearly identical to the original non-USB version. It provides a very healthy output level and a negligible noise floor. Additionally, it offers...Read more

videomaker.com

No specific date provided in article

AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone Review Podcastage

The Videomaker review evaluates the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+, a cardioid condenser microphone designed to provide creators, podcasters, and voice-over artists with an efficient way to record studio-quality audio directly into computer software. Retailing around $279 at the time of the review, the device features a plug-and-play USB connection, a 16-bit, 44.1/48kHz sampling rate, a...Read more

whyreaper.com

30/07/2020

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review

In his review of the Audio-Technica AT2020USB+, Jeff Kaiser highly recommends the device as an excellent, budget-friendly option for music instructors, professors, and remote creators who need an immediate audio upgrade without the complexity of a multi-microphone interface. The primary pros highlighted include its exceptional sound quality on voice, trumpets, and acoustic guitars,...Read more

microphonegeeks.com

24/03/2015

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ PLUS, Cardioid USB Microphone Review

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is a highly capable plug-and-play USB cardioid condenser microphone designed for home studios, podcasting, voiceovers, and YouTube video creation. Built with a rugged metal body and a rigid grid to protect its capsule, the microphone offers extreme durability. Performance-wise, it stands out in its price range by delivering a crisp, clean, and musical...Read more

delamar.de

21/05/2014

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review: USB Microphone

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is a well-built cardioid condenser microphone tailored for podcasters, casual musicians, and homestudio voice recording. The review highlights its excellent metal chassis construction, clean screw threading, and a robust mic grille, which are complemented by a lightweight, highly portable tripod stand. Performance-wise, it delivers very good audio...Read more

homerecording.info

25/02/2025

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review

The Homerecording.info review delivers a highly positive assessment of the Audio Technica AT2020 USB+, emphasizing its role as a high-performing, plug-and-play condenser microphone tailored for speech, music, and vocals within a home studio environment. Retailing at €135, the review praises the 16 mm small-diaphragm capsule and its ability to handle a wide frequency response of 20...Read more

fr.audiofanzine.com

19/12/2022

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review: Mr. Plus

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Review Summary The Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is an elegant, all-in-one cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for lightweight and mobile home studio setups, dispensing with the need for an external sound card or preamp. It operates as its own audio peripheral via a plug-and-play USB connection and features a built-in headphone jack, a volume...Read more

on-mag.fr

20/09/2023

Audio-Technica AT2020 Review: A classic, timeless microphone, but not a turnkey solution

The Audio-Technica AT2020 XLR microphone is an affordable, timeless classic that delivers excellent value for its €100 price tag, offering high performance in a compact, dense, and well-finished 345g aluminium chassis. On the plus side, the condenser microphone displays a remarkably low background noise floor and a highly versatile, neutral sound signature with a slightly rising...Read more

gameit.es

03/09/2020

Audio Technica AT2020 USB, full review

The Audio Technica AT2020 USB is a professional-grade cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for high-quality audio streaming, voice chats, and live broadcasts. It features a robust, premium build weighing 386 grams and features an elegant, understated aesthetic available in black or a special chrome edition. Operating on a 16-bit depth with a 44.1/48 KHz sampling rate,...Read more

paolobalestri.com

20/10/2017

Road test: AT2020USB+ compared with pro-grade microphones

The review by Paolo Balestri outlines a direct comparison between the high-end Neumann U87AI and the entry-level Audio-Technica AT2020 XLR microphone for voice talent work. Balestri notes that the AT2020 features a permanently polarized electret condenser capsule that is roughly half the size of a traditional large-diaphragm Neumann. A major pro highlighted in the review is its...Read more

Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus Review | 76 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus

Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus better than the average microphone?

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus?

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus?

Expert reviews

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