Name: Audio-Technica AT2020USBi
Brand: Audio-Technica

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2020USBi

Overall score

6.5

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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

7.7

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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

-37 dBV/Pa

Connectivity

4.0

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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 + lightning

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

micro-hdmi

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

6.4

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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

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

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

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

6.4

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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

7.6

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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

3.9

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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 AT2020USBi vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USBi better than the average microphone?

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22 dB SPL higher limit
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
27.5 dB wider dynamic range
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (124 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 AT2020USBi has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (124 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.124 dB vs 96.5 dB
48 kHz higher interface sample rate
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (96 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 AT2020USBi supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (96 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.96 kHz vs 48 kHz
38.9% lighter
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is lighter than the average microphone (350 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
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 AT2020USBi is lighter than the average microphone (350 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.350 g vs 573 g
23 mm shorter body
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi 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
22 dB SPL higher limit
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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.
27.5 dB wider dynamic range
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi has a wider dynamic range than the average microphone (124 dB vs 96.5 dB). The average microphone has a dynamic range of 96.5 dB.
Includes mix control
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi includes mix control, the average microphone does not.
48 kHz higher interface sample rate
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi supports a higher audio interface sample rate than the average microphone (96 kHz vs 48 kHz). The average microphone audio interface supports 48 kHz.
38.9% lighter
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is lighter than the average microphone (350 g vs 573 g). The average microphone weighs 573 g.
23 mm shorter body
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is shorter than the average microphone (162 mm vs 185 mm). The average microphone has a height of 185 mm.

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USBi worse than the average microphone?

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4 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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.
No headphone output
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
No zero-latency monitoring
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
5 older release date
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
April 2015.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
0.5 m shorter cable length
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi has a shorter cable than the average microphone (1.5 m vs 2 m). The average microphone has a cable length of 2 m.
Not compatible with Android
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
No zero-latency monitoring
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
What it is: Indicates whether the microphone supports direct zero latency monitoring of its own signal.
When it matters: When you want to hear yourself in real time without the delay that makes speaking awkward.
Importance: MEDIUM
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not support zero-latency monitoring, the average microphone does.
No mute function
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi does not include a mute function, the average microphone does.
Not compatible with Android
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi is not compatible with Android, the average microphone is.
No headphone output
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
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
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a headphone output, the average microphone does.
No pop filter
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi does not include a pop filter, the average microphone does.
No 3.5 mm jack
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
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
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi does not include a 3.5 mm jack, the average microphone does.
4 dB lower signal-to-noise ratio
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi 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 AT2020USBi 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
5 older release date
Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.
April 2015.
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 AT2020USBi is older than the average microphone (2,015 vs 2,020). The average microphone was released in 2,020.2015 vs 2020

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2020USBi?

Studio-quality, extremely clear sound reproduction with 24-bit/96 kHz high-resolution audio.
Plug-and-play and highly class-compliant, making it remarkably easy to use with iOS devices, Macs, and PCs without needing extra drivers.
Solid, all-metal build quality consistent with the studio-standard AT2020 lineage.
Convenient on-body capacitive mute button and physical gain control dial for easy adjustments.
Versatile connectivity with both USB and Lightning cables included in the package.

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2020USBi?

The built-in gain dial has no markings or physical indicators to easily reference the exact input level.
The bright blue LED power light cannot be disabled, which can be distracting or cause light pollution in streaming or bedroom setups.
The LED light stays on even after the computer is shut down, requiring users to physically unplug the mic.
As a sensitive condenser microphone, it easily captures background noise, keyboard clicks, and mouth pops if a pop filter isn't used.
The micro-HDMI port on the microphone's base is a slightly less common connection type for cables.

Expert reviews

audiotechnology.com

07/12/2015

Review: Audio-Technica AT2020USBI - AudioTechnology

The Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is a highly portable, plug-and-play USB microphone ideal for spontaneous recording on computers and iOS devices, delivering clear, present highs and a professional aesthetic. It excels with spoken word, offering an authoritative design for home or work offices. However, the review notes a heavily scooped frequency profile with a recessed midrange that...Read more

bhphotovideo.com

29/08/2017

6 Reasons the Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is Still Great Bang for Your Buck

The B&H Explora review highlights the Audio-Technica AT2020USBi as a versatile, budget-friendly microphone featuring robust, all-metal construction and high-resolution 24-bit/96 kHz audio. It is praised for delivering a satisfying, clear tonal balance that mimics high-end, studio-grade microphones. Conversely, the review notes the condenser microphone is highly sensitive, easily...Read more

mixdownmag.com.au

02/12/2015

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi Condenser Microphone

summary of the Audio-Technica AT2020USBi review: Review Summary The Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed as an all-in-one recording solution that retains the exact audio characteristics of the original AT2020 model. A major pro of this model is its built-in preamp and digital converter, which allows users to plug the microphone directly into a...Read more

performermag.com

30/11/2015

AUDIO-TECHNICA AT2020USBi & ATH-M40x Review

In this home studio review, Danielle Mazza evaluates the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x headphones and the AT2020USBi USB microphone, praising both for delivering exceptional value under $100. Switching from her underwhelming Sony MDRV6 headphones, Mazza highlights the ATH-M40x's superb comfort. It eliminated her listener fatigue during long, four-hour tracking sessions without causing...Read more

turquoise-owl-5p5l.squarespace.com

23/10/2025

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi Condenser Mic Review / Test

The Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is an iOS-compatible USB condenser microphone designed for Windows, Mac, and Apple mobile devices. In his Podcastage review, Bandrew Scott highlights several major pros, including its heavy, rugged all-metal build quality and an integrated gain control wheel on the mic body that allows on-the-fly level adjustments. It boasts an upgraded A/D converter...Read more

bonedo.de

20/11/2015

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi Review - Bonedo

The Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is a high-resolution, digital cardioid condenser microphone modeled after the popular AT2020, specifically engineered for home studio recording, podcasting, voiceovers, and mobile field recording. Unlike its older siblings that only offer 16-bit/44.1 kHz conversion, the AT2020USBi features an updated built-in A/D converter delivering high-fidelity audio...Read more

delamar.de

04/09/2015

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi Review

The Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is a cardioid condenser microphone praised for its high-quality internal analog-to-digital converter, which delivers audiophile-grade 24-bit/96 kHz resolution. This level of audio fidelity is rare for its price class and provides clean, detailed, and low-noise recordings that excel in podcasting, voiceovers, and streaming. Built with a rugged,...Read more

clubic.com

11/03/2021

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi review: This iOS and Windows compatible microphone packs a punch

The Audio-Technica AT2020USBi is a portable cardioid condenser microphone priced at €199, designed specifically for mobile podcast creators and content producers. Its standout feature is cross-platform compatibility, allowing it to work seamlessly without extra power across Windows, macOS, and iOS devices (like iPhones and iPads) right out of the box. On the positive side, the...Read more

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi Review | 76 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of Audio-Technica AT2020USBi

Audio-Technica AT2020USBi vs the average microphone

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USBi better than the average microphone?

Why is Audio-Technica AT2020USBi worse than the average microphone?

Graphic comparison of Audio-Technica AT2020USBi and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Audio-Technica AT2020USBi?

What customers dislike about Audio-Technica AT2020USBi?

Expert reviews

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