One of the more frequently purchased usb microphones today is the AT2020 by Audio Technica. This side-address cardioid condenser has received critical acclaim, and as always, I have read dozens of customer reviews to find common themes to share with my readers. Here's what I found:

This is a usb microphone, which if you're unfamiliar with this type of instrument, is simply a mic that needs no xlr device to run through. You can simply connect it via your pc or Mac's usb port, perform a few simple adjustments, and begin using it right away!

While at first thought it may seem that this would reduce the quality (as with most shortcuts), customer after customer compares the AT2020 Audio Technica mic to non-usb microphones that cost nearly five times as much!

This microphone has a great range, and is often used for not only vocals, but for instrument recording, podcasts, sound production, interviews, and voiceovers. It can capture everything from subtle whispers to all-out screamcore to sounds of a natural meadow to breaking glass and screeching tires... with very little peaking (if well configured, obviously).

Almost every Audio Technica AT2020 USB review I've read conveys the same message: The AT2020 has a unexpectedly professional sound for such an inexpensive instrument.

It's fully powered and, as already stated, operates solely from a usb chord, meaning that this is the perfect microphone for anyone on a budget, as there is no need to buy additional equipment. A mic, a usb chord, and your computer (which I'm assuming you have access to if you're reading this right now) are all you need!

The Audio Technica AT2020 USB Mic has a cardioid polar pattern that reduces the pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the desired sound source. It captures exactly what you want it to capture, and little else.

Because I have been unable to find a legitimate negative review (almost every Audio Technica AT2020 USB review at Amazon gives the microphone a 5 out of 5 rating), I would have to put this microphone very high up on my list of all usb microphones in the under 200 dollar range.

Perhaps only the Marshall MXL 007 USB receives higher marks.

If you decide that this is the microphone for you, it does come with a few little perks you should be aware of. There are actually resources available that can get this microphone delivered right to your front door for a near 60% discount! You can also receive free shipping, a free tripod desk stand, pivoting stand mount, usb cable, and storage pouch.

My overall impression of the Audio Technica AT2020 USB Microphone is that it is a near professional quality "fan favorite" that is probably excellent for the serious home musician, voice actor, or again, any value-conscious consumer.

Professional artists with an extremely keen ear are probably better off spending more on a true studio condenser. Even for this individual, however, the Audio Technica AT2020 USB could be a fun toy that they could use to record in nature, on vacation, in a hotel, or even driving around in their own vehicle!

Exceptional microphone for the money.