Perfect for podcasters
Audio-Technica is well-known for its selection of high–end microphones, most of which use the XLR connector. That's fine if you have the right equipment to plug it into, but it’s not so useful if you just want to make some quick–and–dirty recordings on your Mac.
The company’s AT2020USB–X microphone changes that. It’s not actually Audio– Technica's first USB mic offering (it's a "reimagining" of the AT2020USB+), but it is a serious contender for your cash if you’re looking for the perfect partner for your Mac when it comes to streaming, podcasting, and video calls.
The AT2020USB–X comes with a sturdy metal stand that lets you adjust the mic angle. On the bottom is a rubber layer to cushion the mic and add grip, and there’s a small cut–out on the underside to pass the two–meter USB–C to USB–A cable through. The AT2020USB–X also comes with a USB–A to USB–C adapter, which is ideal if you have a USB–C MacBook. It’s not a common inclusion with USB microphones, despite most using USB–A cables.
Around the back is a 3.5mm headphone jack offering latency-free monitoring, which is helpful for podcasters. On the front there are two dials: one to control headphone volume, and another to adjust the balance between microphone input and computer audio. The latter is a really nice touch, allowing you to tweak the mix on the fly rather than having to delve into software. This is a rare on microphones in this price range.
Audio Excellence
Sound quality is first-rate, with voices coming through clean, clear, and true–to–life. Compared to our Blue Yeti, the AT2020USB–X handily wins, which is impressive given the Yeti’s cachet. If you’re after audio that sounds great with minimal tweaks required, Audio–Technica’s mic is a good place to start. If you ever need to quickly silence the mic, there’s a mute button front and center. This quickly flips the light emmiting from the grille from blue to red, making for an unambiguous signal when the sound is off. We're not so keen on its touch surface though — there’s no physical click when you press it, so it’s easy to accidentally mute yourself.
There are other areas where there is room for improvement. There’s no gain control dial — while not essential, it would certainly be welcome. The AT2020USB-X only offers the cardioid polar pattern, which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to record multiple people at once. And you’ll also need a separate pop filter to protect against plosives, as the isn't one built in (although that's not uncommon).
All of these drawbacks are "nice to haves", though, rather than dealbreakers. There’s a whole lot to love here, from the clear mute status indicator to the audio mix dial and, of course, the superb audio quality. If podcasts or streaming are your thing, this will be right up your street.
Features: 20Hz–20kHz frequency response, 24–bit/96kHz audio resolution, cardioid polar pattern, microphone/computer mix dial, 3.5mm jack, touch–sensitive mute button, mute indicator light, USB–A to USB–C adapter, two–meter USB–A to USB–C cable
Price: $149
A great mic with crisp, clear audio and some nifty extras.
Comments
Post a Comment