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Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP Review | 76 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£130
  • Connection type: USB
  • Transducer type: condenser
  • Max SPL: 144 dB SPL
  • Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
  • Output connector type: USB-c

Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP review. Compare 76 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among microphones and if it is worth buying.

7.7

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the microphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best microphones on the market.

Score components:

75.0%

7.7

Technical Score

25.0%

?

User score

Very good
7.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

7.2

Audio Performance

20.0%

9.9

Recording

16.0%

3.2

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

8.3

Controls & Features

10.0%

10

Power

7.0%

10

Compatibility

5.0%

6.5

Connectivity

3.0%

8.7

Design

3.0%

6.0

Accessories

Very good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 9.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    25.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Mute function

    20.0%

    5.5

    Volume control levels

    10.0%

    10

    RGB lighting

  • 10
    Podcasting

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

    20.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    20.0%

    10

    Audio interface bit depth

    15.0%

    10

    Audio interface sample rate

  • 10
    Vocal recording

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Max SPL

    20.0%

    10

    Highest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Lowest frequency

    20.0%

    10

    Cardioid pattern

  • 9.3
    Streaming

    Score components:

    25.0%

    10

    Loopback support

    25.0%

    10

    Zero-latency monitoring

    20.0%

    10

    Onboard gain control

    15.0%

    10

    Mute function

    15.0%

    5.5

    Volume control levels

  • 6.4
    Camera use

    Score components:

    30.0%

    ?

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.0

    Windscreen included

    25.0%

    4.0

    Shock mount included

    10.0%

    10

    Height

    10.0%

    9.6

    Width

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £130

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is a professional-grade cardioid condenser microphone that upgrades the classic AT2020 series with a high-resolution A/D converter supporting up to 24-bit/192 kHz recording and plug-and-play USB-C connectivity. Its main characteristics include onboard digital signal processing with three selectable levels of noise reduction, automatic gain control to maintain consistent output levels, and a capacitive touch-sensitive mute button with a dual-state LED indicator. Key pros include its exceptional high-frequency detail for spoken word, zero-latency monitoring via a 3.5mm headphone jack with mix control, and the inclusion of a custom pop filter and desk stand. However, potential cons include a higher price point compared to competitors, the lack of multiple polar patterns, and reports that higher noise reduction settings can sometimes make vocals sound slightly unnatural.

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the microphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: sound quality, sensitivity, pickup pattern, connectivity, onboard controls, accessories, compatibility, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare microphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

20.0%

?

Audio Performance

20.0%

?

Recording

16.0%

?

Pickup Patterns

16.0%

?

Controls & Features

10.0%

?

Power

7.0%

?

Compatibility

5.0%

?

Connectivity

3.0%

?

Design

3.0%

?

Accessories

7.7
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a technical score of 7.71 points, which is higher than 83.9% of microphones.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the microphone.

When it matters: When you want to know how a microphone performs in real use and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 68.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the microphone's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a microphone with a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.7

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

8.4
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.4 points, which is higher than 77.4% of products in this category.
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

15.4 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

?
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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-c
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes a headphone output. 62.9% of microphones include this output.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes a 3.5 mm jack. 62.8% of microphones include this connector.
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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP does not include a 6.35 mm jack. 2% of microphones include this connector.
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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, 88.2, 96 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, 24 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

192 kHz
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports an interface sample rate of 192 kHz which is higher than that of 82.9% of microphones and equal to that of 17.1% of microphones.
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

24 bit
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports an interface bit depth of 24 bit which is higher than that of 41.8% of microphones and equal to that of 57.1% of microphones.
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

?
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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

1
The number of selectable polar patterns offered by Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is 1, which is equal to that of 75.4% of microphones.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a cardioid pickup pattern. 91% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP does not support an omnidirectional pickup pattern. 26.1% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP does not support a hypercardioid pickup pattern. 1.5% of microphones support this pattern.
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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP does not support a bidirectional pickup pattern. 17.1% of microphones support this pattern.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes a mute function. 67.8% of microphones include this control.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes onboard gain control. 51% of microphones include this control.
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

1
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP offers volume output of 1 which is higher than that of 35.4% of microphones and equal to that of 48.7% of microphones.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a flat DSP mode. 25% of microphones offer this processing option.
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

3
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP offers 3 DSP presets, which is more than 86.5% of microphones and equal to 5.2% of microphones.
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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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP requires phantom power. 90.4% of microphones also require phantom power.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports USB bus power. 85.9% of microphones support USB-powered operation.
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
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

142 mm
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is 142 mm tall, which is shorter than 86.2% of microphones and equal in height to 0.5% of microphones.
Body only.
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

52 mm
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is 52 mm wide, which is narrower than 65.3% of microphones and equal in width to 6.1% of microphones.
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

52 mm
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is 52 mm thick, which is thinner than 62.1% of microphones and equal in thickness to 6.8% of microphones.
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
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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; pop filter; cable; mount adapter
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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP does not include a shock mount. 50% of microphones include this accessory.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes a pop filter. 60.9% of microphones include this accessory.
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

no
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP does not include a windscreen. 31.8% of microphones include this accessory.
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

2 m
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a cable length of 2 m which is longer than that of 37.4% of microphones and equal to that of 23.9% of microphones.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is compatible with Android. 65.8% of microphones are compatible with Android.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is compatible with iOS. 61.3% of microphones are compatible with iOS.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is compatible with Windows. 100% of microphones are compatible with Windows.
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

yes
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is compatible with macOS. 99.5% of microphones are compatible with macOS.
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

?
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Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP vs the average microphone

  • 144 kHz higher interface sample rate
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (192 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
    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-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (192 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.192 kHz vs 48 kHz
  • Supports loopback audio
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports loopback routing for combining input and system audio.
    When it matters: When you want to send your microphone signal and system audio into one stream or recording feed.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
  • 22 dB SPL higher limit
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (144 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-XP has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (144 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.144 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL
  • Includes mix control
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP 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-XP includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 3 more DSP presets
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has more DSP presets than the average microphone (3 vs 0). The average microphone offers 0 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

    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has more DSP presets than the average microphone (3 vs 0). The average microphone offers 0 DSP presets.3 vs 0
  • Supports flat DSP mode
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
    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

    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
  • 67 mW higher headphone output power
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (110 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-XP has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (110 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.110 mW vs 43 mW
  • 2 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (80 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-XP has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (80 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.80 dB vs 78 dB
  • 22 dB SPL higher limit
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a higher max SPL than the average microphone (144 dB SPL vs 122 dB SPL). The average microphone handles a max SPL of 122 dB SPL.
  • 2 dB higher signal-to-noise ratio
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a higher signal-to-noise ratio than the average microphone (80 dB vs 78 dB). The average microphone has a signal-to-noise ratio of 78 dB.
  • 67 mW higher headphone output power
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a higher headphone output power than the average microphone (110 mW vs 43 mW). The average microphone has a headphone output power of 43 mW.
  • 144 kHz higher interface sample rate
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (192 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
  • Supports loopback audio
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports loopback audio, the average microphone does not.
  • Includes mix control
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
  • 3 more DSP presets
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has more DSP presets than the average microphone (3 vs 0). The average microphone offers 0 DSP presets.
  • Supports flat DSP mode
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP supports a flat DSP mode, the average microphone does not.
  • 3 newer release date
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is newer than the average microphone (2,023 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
  • 43 mm shorter body
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is shorter than the average microphone (142 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.
  • Includes RGB lighting
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP includes RGB lighting, the average microphone does not.

Total
Audio Performance
Connectivity
Recording
Controls & Features
Design
  • 16.5 dB narrower dynamic range
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a narrower dynamic range than the average microphone (80 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
  • 16.5 dB narrower dynamic range
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a narrower dynamic range than the average microphone (80 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
    What it is: The usable level range between the microphone noise floor and its clipping limit.
    When it matters: When the recording has to keep both quiet detail and loud peaks without falling apart.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a narrower dynamic range than the average microphone (80 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.80 dB vs 96.5 dB
  • 4.75x less popular
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).
    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-Technica AT2020USB-XP has a lower popularity than the average microphone (1.00 vs 4.748).1 vs 4.75
  • 85.7% more expensive
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is more expensive than the average microphone (£130 vs £70).
    Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is more expensive than the average microphone (£130 vs £70).£130 vs £70
Total
Overall
Audio Performance

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP and

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP?

  • Clear, crisp, natural sound quality, suitable for podcasts and streaming
  • Simple, immediate USB-C plug-and-play connection
  • Useful built-in features: touch mute button with LED and mix control
  • Solid, durable all-metal construction
  • Automatic gain control function
  • Includes useful accessories such as a desktop stand and adapters

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP?

  • Very sensitive, tends to capture background noise and room reverb
  • Sound can be a bit thin or lack depth, with highs that are sometimes harsh
  • Price positioned in the mid-to-high range for a USB microphone
  • No pop filter included in the box

Expert reviews

S
soundguys.com
09/05/2025
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP review

The SoundGuys review of the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP highlights it as a durable, feature-rich USB microphone offering 24-bit/192 kHz recording, ideal for creators needing high-fidelity audio. Key advantages include onboard active noise reduction, a touch-sensitive mute button, and auto gain control that helps mitigate background noise in, suboptimal environments. Conversely, the...Read more

M
musicradar.com
21/02/2024
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP review

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is a cardioid USB-C condenser microphone designed primarily for speech work like streaming, podcasting, and video calls, though it also delivers clear, transparent results for basic studio music tracking. Sitting toward the bottom of the brand's lineup, this upgraded iteration of the original AT2020USB records at a high-quality 24-bit/192kHz...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
08/01/2024
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP review: A superb-sounding USB microphone

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is a compact, high-quality USB condenser microphone that delivers detailed, professional-grade vocal recordings specifically optimized for spoken-word content creators, podcasters, and voiceover artists. Operating over USB without requiring an external audio interface, the mic features an intuitive touch-capacitive mute button with clear blue and red...Read more

M
mediaberry.co.uk
11/11/2023
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP Review Would you like a comparison of how this "XP" version differs from the standard AT2020USB-X?

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is a compact, USB-C condenser microphone that features a solid black metal build, a small desk footprint, and a touch-sensitive mute button that changes the internal RGB lighting from blue to red. Priced at £149 / $169, it provides simple plug-and-play setup without requiring proprietary software, and includes a handy external metal pop filter and a...Read more

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techradar.com
08/08/2023
Audio Technica AT2020USB-XP review

The Audio Technica AT2020USB-XP is a high-quality USB microphone designed for streaming, podcasting, and voice recording. It provides very good audio quality, delivering clear and full sound for voices and instruments. The microphone stands out with its unique onboard features, such as a multi-level built-in noise reduction system to block background sound and an automatic gain...Read more

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mixdownmag.com.au
17/08/2023
Review: Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP Would you like me to look for video-based testing or more technical specifications for this specific model?

The ⁠Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is an all-in-one USB cardioid condenser microphone tailored for content creators, podcasters, and streaming. The review highlights its exceptional portability and ease of use, acting as a complete bundle that eliminates the need for separate preamps or audio interfaces. Key advantages include built-in automatic gain control for consistent audio...Read more

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3rd-strike.com
15/01/2024
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP – Hardware Review

The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is a premium, plug-and-play USB condenser microphone designed for gaming, streaming, podcasting, and music recording. Boasting exceptional build quality, it features a classy matte black metallic body supported by a heavy base with soft rubber padding to prevent slipping. The microphone delivers crisp, professional-grade audio and offers excellent...Read more

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beat.com.au
03/08/2023
High Fidelity: We review Audio Technica's AT2020USB-XP microphone

AT2020USB-XP Review Summary The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is an all-in-one USB cardioid condenser microphone designed specifically for podcasters, streamers, and content creators who need a simple plug-and-play recording setup. A standout pro is its exceptional ease of use, as it connects directly via USB to power the mic and transmit digital audio without requiring complex...Read more

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bonedo.de
26/09/2023
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP Review

Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP Review Summary The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP is a cardioid USB electret condenser microphone designed for streamlined, hardware-driven operation without needing companion software. It provides high-resolution recording capabilities up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The microphone introduces advanced standalone processing features, most notably an Automatic Gain...Read more

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ratgeber.pcgameshardware.de
02/04/2025
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP review PCGH Guide

The Audio Technica AT2020USB-XP is a high-performance, plug-and-play USB condenser microphone designed for streamers, home-office users, and music production. It provides exceptionally clear and natural sound reproduction, boasting advanced technical specifications that support up to 24-bit depth and a 192 kHz sampling rate. A key highlight of this model is its built-in automatic...Read more

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sudinfo.be
20/02/2024
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP Review: Quality Sound for a Mic with Welcome Features

The Sudinfo review of the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP highlights its,, flawless, clear, and professional audio quality, making it excellent for voice-overs and podcasting. Key features, such as the effective automatic gain control and integrated ambient noise reduction, significantly enhance recording stability. Sudinfo Conversely, the review notes limitations with the noise...Read more

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vozpopuli.com
19/08/2023
We test the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP podcast (and more) microphone", "Reviewing the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP microphone for podcasting (and more...

The Vozpópuli review highlights the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-XP as a highly versatile cardioid directional condenser microphone tailored primarily for podcasters, streamers, and content creators. Priced at 169 euros, this model is a digital evolution of the classic AT2020, delivering high-resolution recording up to 24-bit/96 kHz that blurs the lines between professional and amateur...Read more

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interface.nl
03/10/2024
Audio-Technica AT2040USB and AT2020USB-XP podcast microphones for free online.

The Audio-Technica AT2040USB and AT2020USB-XP are plug-and-play USB microphones designed to capture the content creator and podcaster market with advanced internal features. The AT2040USB (€149) is a hypercardioid dynamic microphone that delivers a warm, broadcast-style vocal presence while natively rejecting off-axis background noise. Pros include a sturdy, professional metal...Read more

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interface.nl
14/11/2024
Audio-Technica AT2040USB vs AT2020USB-XP

Audio-Technica is aiming to secure its spot in the creator market with the release of the AT2040USB and AT2020USB-XP microphones, which are digital updates to their popular existing models. The review outlines distinct advantages for both options, noting their plug-and-play simplicity and reliable audio performance. A major pro for the AT2040USB (priced at €149) is its hypercardioid...Read more

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