{"id":1356,"date":"2021-07-25T14:30:42","date_gmt":"2021-07-25T13:30:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/?p=1356"},"modified":"2023-06-11T17:38:40","modified_gmt":"2023-06-11T16:38:40","slug":"at2020-vs-nt1a-microphone-shootout","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/at2020-vs-nt1a-microphone-shootout","title":{"rendered":"AT2020 vs NT1A &#8211; Which Is The Best Mic (In 2022)"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:64.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:64.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:64.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:74.285714285714%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">In this article, we pit two heavyweight entry-level microphones head to head, the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">AT2020 vs<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> NT1A<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">With so many options now on the market, it is always tricky to decide which is the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\">best <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">microphone<\/span><\/span> to buy. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">This article will talk about two microphones that are great workhorses, well priced, and perfect for any home studio, also commonly found in professional studios.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Both these mics are fantastic options, and either would sit nicely in your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/building-a-home-studio-on-a-budget\">home studio<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I currently have the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/audio-technica-at2020-not-working\">AT2020 microphone from Audio Technica<\/a> in my own lab, so I know firsthand what a great bang for your buck mic it is. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I&rsquo;ve got to admit, it was a close toss-up deciding between these two mics, and ultimately it came down to the price. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Continue reading to find how these two microphones compare and which one is best suited for you.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5.jpg\" alt=\"AT2020 vs NT1A (Microphone Shootout)\" class=\"wp-image-1433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-561x361.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-364x234.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-608x391.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20700%20450'%3E%3Crect%20width='700'%20height='450'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"AT2020 vs NT1A (Microphone Shootout)\" class=\"wp-image-1433 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-300x193.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-561x361.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-364x234.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5-608x391.jpg.webp 608w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">in A Hurry?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out the latest prices here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table class=\"cg-table-two  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><thead><tr><th>Image<\/th><th>Product<\/th><th>Features<\/th><th>Price<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr id=\"product-63581\"><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/dhvB\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link cg-tbl-img\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41EvhVRUKzL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41EvhVRUKzL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>                    <\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/dhvB\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-table-title cg-aff-link\">Audio-Technica AT2020<\/a><\/td><td><div class=\"cg-tbl-ul\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li style=\"text-align: center;\">XLR<\/li><li style=\"text-align: center;\">Phantom Power<\/li><\/ul>                        <\/div><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/dhvB\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link \" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Latest Price<\/a>                                                    <\/td><\/tr><tr id=\"product-63583\"><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/j3o6scZ\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link cg-tbl-img\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41GUCkhGdlL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020USB+\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41GUCkhGdlL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020USB+\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>                    <\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/j3o6scZ\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-table-title cg-aff-link\">Audio-Technica AT2020USB+<\/a><\/td><td><div class=\"cg-tbl-ul\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li style=\"text-align: center;\">USB<\/li><li style=\"text-align: center;\">USB Power<\/li><\/ul>                        <\/div><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/j3o6scZ\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link \" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Latest Price<\/a>                                                    <\/td><\/tr><tr id=\"product-63584\"><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/PIja9hy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link cg-tbl-img\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31KTylpuYQL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Rode NT1-A\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31KTylpuYQL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Rode NT1-A\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>                    <\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/PIja9hy\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-table-title cg-aff-link\">Rode NT1-A<\/a><\/td><td><div class=\"cg-tbl-ul\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li style=\"text-align: center;\">XLR<\/li><li style=\"text-align: center;\">Phantom Power<\/li><\/ul>                        <\/div><\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/PIja9hy\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link \" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Latest Price<\/a>                                                    <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Audio Technica AT2020&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">When you think about well-known brands, you think about <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Audio<\/span> Technica<\/span>. They make some of the best mics on the market and have a wide selection of types and prices. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The AT2020 is probably one of the best for home recording, entry-level <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span>, because of its affordability and quality.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It is a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">cardioid condenser<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">microphone<\/span><\/span>, which means that it will pick up <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> from the front, and it will need to be powered from an external power supply called phantom power. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Any <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">condenser<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span><\/span> will require phantom power to work. There are no battery options.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">About the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">frequency response<\/span> (range of <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> that the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> can reproduce), it is the same as any large-diaphragm <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">condenser<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span><\/span>: <strong>20Hz-20kHz<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It has a cool design, with its thick black cast metal and the capsule (housing for the diaphragm) seems to be well protected with a rigid wire mesh. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It is light<strong> (0.76 lbs) <\/strong>and overall feels pretty durable. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I also like that <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Audio<\/span> Technica<\/span> included a case with it to keep it protected if you plan on taking it out and about, although be aware it&rsquo;s not the most padded case I&rsquo;ve seen.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">If you are looking for a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">microphone<\/span> for <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocals<\/span>, it is essential to know that this <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> does well with deep dark voices. Perfect for male vocalists and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/how-to-rap-fast\">rap<\/a> vocals, it has a very crisp and bold sound and is very sensitive, picks up a lot. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">By adding some EQ and compression, you will have a fantastic <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"> quality<\/span> Although it has a secondary layer of mesh that helps reduce popping, it is vital to use a proper pop shield when <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">recording <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocals<\/span>. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Also suitable for recording loud sounds like horns and closed miked instruments, it has a dynamic range of <strong>124dB <\/strong>at <strong>1KHZ <\/strong>and maximum SPL.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Overall the AT2020 is perfect for recording pretty much anything, especially <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocals<\/span> and instruments like an <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">acoustic <\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">guitar<\/span><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Let&rsquo;s take a look at the AT2020 specs:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Polar Pattern<\/strong>: Cardioid<\/li><li><strong>Microphone type: <\/strong>Condenser<\/li><li><strong>Frequency Response:&nbsp; <\/strong>20Hz-20kHz<\/li><li><strong>Output Impedance:<\/strong> 100 Ohms<\/li><li><strong>Connector<\/strong>: Three-pin (XLR), male<\/li><li><strong>Max SPL:&nbsp;<\/strong> 144dB SPL<\/li><li><strong>Sensitivity : <\/strong>-37dB<\/li><li><strong>Self-Noise<\/strong> : 20dB<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">One of the negatives of this mic<\/span> is that the sound seems to be quite bright<span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> so that it might feel like it has a slight lack of body. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Also, the storage bag doesn&rsquo;t have much padding, and you need to have an XLR cable because it doesn&rsquo;t come with it.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cg-box-layout-seven  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><div class=\"cg-our-top-pick\">AT2020<\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-row\"><div class=\"cg-layout-img\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/dhvB\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link \"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41EvhVRUKzL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020 XLR Microphone\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41EvhVRUKzL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020 XLR Microphone\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>            <\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-content\"><div class=\"cg-tag\"><h3 class=\"cg-box-name\">Audio-Technica AT2020 XLR Microphone<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"cg-text\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li>Ideal For Project\/Home-Studio Setup<\/li><li>Extended Frequency Response<\/li><li>High SPL Handling And Wide Dynamic Range<\/li><li>Custom-Engineered Low-Mass Diaphragm<\/li><\/ul><p>&nbsp;<\/p>                <\/div><div class=\"cg-lc-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/dhvB\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link cg-btn-lg\" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Click For Latest Price<\/a>                <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_f1e881-98 .kt-block-spacer{height:60px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_f1e881-98 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);width:17%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-_f1e881-98\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\" style=\"height:60px\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\" style=\"border-top-color:var(--global-palette9);border-top-width:1px;width:17%;border-top-style:solid\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Something to have in mind is that you will need to own an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/how-to-connect-studio-monitors-to-an-audio-interface\">audio interface<\/a> for it to work as it requires phantom power unless you opt for the <a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/j3o6scZ\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">AT2020 USB<\/a> version.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>AT2020USB+<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">In 2013 the AT2020 released its USB version, which is pretty similar to the regular AT2020 but doesn&rsquo;t require any additional gear to work because the Gain and Headphone Mix adjusters are built-in.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The phantom power is supplied via the USB cable. So this is a perfect option if you don&rsquo;t want any additional gear like an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/best-sound-cards-for-music-production\">interface<\/a> or mixer console to power it up.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It also comes with a built-in headphone jack to control the latency with the mix knob, and it allows you to control how much of the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span>&lsquo;s direct signal you will get and how much of the computer&rsquo;s <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">audio<\/span> will be played back. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It has a handy a gain dial to manage the level of the signal aswell.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">In general terms, the quality is pretty much the same as the AT2020XLR. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The main difference is its ease of use. You just connect it to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/building-a-computer-for-music-production\">computer<\/a>, and you are ready to go. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">A perfect option for beginners. It is an ideal <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">studio microphone<\/span><\/span> for podcasting or voice-over work.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Either you choose the XLR or the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">USB <\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span><\/span>, I think it is an excellent option for your home studio, it will let you record anything you need to, and the quality of a great brand supports you.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cg-box-layout-seven  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><div class=\"cg-our-top-pick\">AT2020USB+<\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-row\"><div class=\"cg-layout-img\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/j3o6scZ\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link \"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41GUCkhGdlL.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41GUCkhGdlL.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>            <\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-content\"><div class=\"cg-tag\"><h3 class=\"cg-box-name\">Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ USB Microphone<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"cg-text\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li>Condenser microphone with USB output for digital recording<\/li><li>High-quality A\/D converter with 16 bit, 44.1\/48 kilohertz sampling rate for superb audio<\/li><li>Headphone jack with volume control allows you to monitor the microphone signal with no delay<\/li><li>Mix control allows you to blend your microphone signal and prerecorded audio<\/li><\/ul><p>&nbsp;<\/p>                <\/div><div class=\"cg-lc-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/j3o6scZ\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link cg-btn-lg\" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Click For Latest Price<\/a>                <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Rode NT1A<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Another excellent <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> for an entry-level home studio, the Rode, is probably one of the most used microphones nowadays. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It will give you a very accurate representation of what&rsquo;s being recorded, and for this reason, it will fit with ease in any mix. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I would go for a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Rode NT1A<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> if I&rsquo;m looking for the right <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> for <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocals<\/span>, acoustic guitars, and similar instruments. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Although it has a bright <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span>, I would say brighter than the AT2020, and it can also make your voice <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> warm and clear.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I like its design better than the AT2020, it is also a fixed <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">cardioid condenser<\/span>, and it will need an <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">XLR cable<\/span> to connect. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Being released in 2003, it has proved to last in time and is still going strong. Although a little higher in price, it is still affordable and a great choice when looking for increased sensitivity.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Especially useful with <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocals<\/span>, it will pick up any volume and dynamic of your voice. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">It has a sensitivity of <strong>-31dB<\/strong> and a max SPL of <strong>137<\/strong>, and a great range, so you won&rsquo;t have to do a lot afterward. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Since the SPL (loudest <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> can take) is slightly lower than the AT2020, it might not be the best choice when recording closed-musked instruments.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">One of the drawbacks of the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 iOyhdl highlight--variant\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Rode <\/span><\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\"><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span><\/span> is that the capsule doesn&rsquo;t come with proper padding, so when <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">recording vocals<\/span>, you will have some issues with sibilance (s&rsquo;s or t&rsquo;s); although it comes with a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">pop filter<\/span>, you might have to upgrade the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">pop filter<\/span> to have better results.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Let&rsquo;s look at the specs for the NT1A:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><strong>Polar Pattern:&nbsp;<\/strong> Cardioid<\/li><li><strong>Microphone type:<\/strong> Condenser<\/li><li><strong>Frequency Response:&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/strong>20Hz-20kHz<\/li><li><strong>Output Impedance:<\/strong> 100 Ohms<\/li><li><strong>Connector:<\/strong>Three-pin (XLR), male<\/li><li><strong>Max SPL<\/strong>: 137dB SPL<\/li><li><strong>Sensitivity:<\/strong> -32dB<\/li><li><strong>Self-Noise: <\/strong>5dB<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cg-box-layout-seven  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><div class=\"cg-our-top-pick\">NT1-A<\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-row\"><div class=\"cg-layout-img\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07YLK4GS5?tag=homemusicmake-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link \"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31KTylpuYQL.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Rode NT1-A Studio Microphone\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31KTylpuYQL.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Rode NT1-A Studio Microphone\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>            <\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-content\"><div class=\"cg-tag\"><h3 class=\"cg-box-name\">Rode NT1-A Studio Microphone<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"cg-text\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li>Large-diaphragm 1&rdquo; gold-sputtered capsule<\/li><li>Ultra-low noise, self-noise of only 5dB (A)<\/li><li>Multi-Award Winning&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul><p>&nbsp;<\/p>                <\/div><div class=\"cg-lc-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07YLK4GS5?tag=homemusicmake-20&amp;linkCode=ogi&amp;th=1&amp;psc=1\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link cg-btn-lg\" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Click For Latest Price<\/a>                <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_e14204-c3 .kt-block-spacer{height:60px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_e14204-c3 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);width:17%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-_e14204-c3\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\" style=\"height:60px\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\" style=\"border-top-color:var(--global-palette9);border-top-width:1px;width:17%;border-top-style:solid\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Something that is also good from the NT1- A Is its flat frequency response, which means that whatever you record will be close to the original.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Its brightness, bass attenuation, and slight issues with sibilance are some of the cons of this mic; however, it is a great, long-lasting option.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Here&rsquo;s a comparison table to see both mics side by side.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Rode NT1-A<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>AT2020<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Release Date<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">2003<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">2004<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Color<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Silver<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Black<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Noise Level<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">5dB<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">20dB<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Sensitivity<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">-32dB<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">-37dB<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Type<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Condenser<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"> Condenser <\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Polar Pattern<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Cardioid<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"> Cardioid <\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Max SPL<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">137dB<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">140dB<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Output Impedance<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">100 Ohms<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">100 Ohms<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Phantom Power Required?<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">YES<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">YES<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Connector<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">XLR<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">XLR<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8203;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Importance of a Good Quality Microphone<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">When you get more into either composing, producing, recording music, or even podcasting, you will need to invest in your equipment, and a good <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">microphone<\/span> is probably one of the first things you want to own.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">You can have the best quality interface, PA, or mixer that your budget can afford, but if you don&rsquo;t have a source adequately miked, you won&rsquo;t achieve much. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">I would say that owning mics, learning how to handle them, and continually using them is the best way to ensure consistency in your sonic work.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design.jpg\" alt=\"AT2020 vs NT1A (Microphone Shootout)\" class=\"wp-image-1368\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-561x361.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-364x234.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-608x391.jpg 608w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-313x201.jpg 313w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design.jpg.webp\" alt=\"AT2020 vs NT1A (Microphone Shootout)\" class=\"wp-image-1368 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-300x193.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-561x361.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-364x234.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-608x391.jpg.webp 608w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-313x201.jpg.webp 313w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Microphones are this sort of magic wand that captures an instant and makes it last forever in a track. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The quality of the capture will affect the final result of the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> you want to share with the world, so having a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">great microphone<\/span> is the secret weapon of any recording engineer, producer, or self-recording artist.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Before getting into more details, I would like to start with some basic concepts that might be helpful if you are just beginning in this world of recording music and microphones usage.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Studio Mics and Stage Mics&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Live and studio are two different worlds, and for this reason, specific microphones will perform better for one or the other. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The studio microphones are designed to capture subtleties; you want them to be as optimized as possible to capture a wide <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> range and be as accurate as possible. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">On the other side, stage mics need to be sturdy and built to resist humidity, feedback and be able to handle noise.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Even though you can find microphones with a great response to both duties, live and studio, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">condenser<\/span> mics are probably the most common ones at the studio and offer the highest fidelity, with a wide frequency range, low noise, and excellent impulse response.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">A significant difference between both worlds is also <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> placement. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">A stage <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">microphone<\/span> must be placed close to the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> source to achieve that high feedback resistance and usually have the low frequencies attenuated to compensate for that proximity&rsquo;s bass boat.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2.jpg\" alt=\"Drum kit with stage mics\" class=\"wp-image-1381\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-561x361.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-364x234.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-608x391.jpg 608w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-313x201.jpg 313w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Drum kit with stage mics\" class=\"wp-image-1381 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-300x193.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-561x361.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-364x234.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-608x391.jpg.webp 608w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2-313x201.jpg.webp 313w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-2.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">In opposition, Studio microphones have a deeper low end and are very sensitive to noise; they are usually more flexible. They can work either close or further away from the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> source.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">There are various pick-up patterns, which tell you how the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> picks up <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> (its directionality) and its sensitivity based on the <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span>&lsquo;s orientation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">So you have mics that are sensitive to <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> in all directions (omnidirectional), from the front and rear (figure eight or bidirectional), one direction (cardioid), and so on.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>AT2020 vs NT1A &ndash; Final Thoughts&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">As you can see, both microphones, in general, are quite similar, so it would depend on what you need them for and what your final budget is. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">There&rsquo;s certainly a difference in the prices, with being the Rode NT1 coming in more expensive than the AT2020.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The Rode NT1-A is excellent for <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">vocal recording<\/span> and is as close to the real <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">sound<\/span> you can find in that range of prices. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The downside: sibilation, bass attenuation, and some people complain that it sounds too bright.&rsquo;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">The AT2020 seems to be an excellent all-around working <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span>, durable, and very affordable. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">Its downside noise level appears slightly higher than average, and it doesn&rsquo;t come with a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">shock mount<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">In my home studio, I have the AT2020, and I&rsquo;ve got to say I&rsquo;m pleased with it. You are getting a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">great <\/span><span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">mic<\/span> that doesn&rsquo;t break the bank, which is important when starting music production.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-slate-node=\"text\">With the money I saved, I could buy the excellent Rode Boom Arm, <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Shock Mount,<\/span> and a <span class=\"getHighlights__Term-sc-1s71y2o-0 bOHVYF highlight--related-topic\">Pop Filter<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73.jpg\" alt=\"AT2020 and Rode Boom Arm set up\" class=\"wp-image-1467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-192x144.jpg 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-90x67.jpg 90w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-180x135.jpg 180w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-561x417.jpg 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-364x270.jpg 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-608x452.jpg 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"700\" height=\"520\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73.jpg.webp\" alt=\"AT2020 and Rode Boom Arm set up\" class=\"wp-image-1467 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73.jpg.webp 700w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-300x223.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-192x144.jpg.webp 192w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-90x67.jpg.webp 90w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-180x135.jpg.webp 180w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-561x417.jpg.webp 561w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-364x270.jpg.webp 364w, https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73-608x452.jpg.webp 608w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-73.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Check out the Rode Boom Arm here:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cg-box-layout-seven  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><div class=\"cg-our-top-pick\">Our Top Pick<\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-row\"><div class=\"cg-layout-img\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/Jyesk\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link \"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31x50u-P9PL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"RODE PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31x50u-P9PL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"RODE PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>            <\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-content\"><div class=\"cg-tag\"><h3 class=\"cg-box-name\">RODE PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"cg-text\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li>Rotates 360 degrees with a maximum reach of 32.5 inches horizontally and 33 inches vertically<\/li><li>3\/8 inch thread adaptor<\/li><li>Holds up to 4.4 lbs<\/li><li>Includes two desk mounting options<\/li><li>2-axis swivel mount for accurate positioning<\/li><\/ul><p>&nbsp;<\/p>                <\/div><div class=\"cg-lc-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/Jyesk\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link cg-btn-lg\" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Click For Latest Price<\/a>                <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_8de20d-57 .kt-block-spacer{height:60px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_8de20d-57 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);width:17%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-_8de20d-57\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\" style=\"height:60px\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\" style=\"border-top-color:var(--global-palette9);border-top-width:1px;width:17%;border-top-style:solid\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The Shock Mount<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cg-box-layout-seven  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><div class=\"cg-our-top-pick\">Our Top Pick<\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-row\"><div class=\"cg-layout-img\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/saEjj9\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link \"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41m-LGyg2BL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"Koolertron Universal Microphone Shock Mount\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41m-LGyg2BL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"Koolertron Universal Microphone Shock Mount\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>            <\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-content\"><div class=\"cg-tag\"><h3 class=\"cg-box-name\">Koolertron Universal Microphone Shock Mount<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"cg-text\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li>This professional suspension shock mount isolates most studio condenser mics from physical vibration, and stand noise.<\/li><li>Made of high-quality metal and high elasticity rope.<\/li><li>It can protect the microphone all-around with high elasticity wrap roping design, which makes the microphone more convenient to install and prevent the microphone from falling.<\/li><\/ul><p>&nbsp;<\/p>                <\/div><div class=\"cg-lc-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/saEjj9\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link cg-btn-lg\" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Click For Latest Price<\/a>                <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_77b331-b0 .kt-block-spacer{height:60px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_77b331-b0 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);width:17%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-_77b331-b0\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\" style=\"height:60px\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\" style=\"border-top-color:var(--global-palette9);border-top-width:1px;width:17%;border-top-style:solid\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here&rsquo;s the Pop Filter:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cg-box-layout-seven  #519FEE\" style=\"--cg-theme-color:#519FEE\"><div class=\"cg-our-top-pick\">Our Top Pick<\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-row\"><div class=\"cg-layout-img\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/xTxWN\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" class=\"cg-aff-link \"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51bHWRSfkvL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1\" alt=\"MINTHE Large MIC Cover  (2 Pack)\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51bHWRSfkvL._SL500_.jpg\" class=\"cg-img-1 lazyload\" alt=\"MINTHE Large MIC Cover  (2 Pack)\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/a>            <\/div><div class=\"cg-layout-content\"><div class=\"cg-tag\"><h3 class=\"cg-box-name\">MINTHE Large MIC Cover  (2 Pack)<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"cg-text\"><ul style=\"list-style-type: square;\"><li>The Large Mic Cover Is made from a High-Quality Thick Microphone Cover Foam.<\/li><li>Compatible with a Wide Range of Popular Microphone Models.<\/li><li>The Condenser Microphone Windscreen Acts as a Mic Filter and a Pop Filter to Reduce the &lsquo;P&rsquo;s&rsquo; and &rsquo;S&rsquo;s&rsquo; from your Voice.<\/li><\/ul>                <\/div><div class=\"cg-lc-button\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/xTxWN\" class=\"cg-one-button cg-btn cg-red cg-aff-link cg-btn-lg\" data-style=\"default\" data-extra=\"\" style=\"\" target=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Click For Latest Price<\/a>                <\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<style>.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_b9800a-c2 .kt-block-spacer{height:60px;}.wp-block-kadence-spacer.kt-block-spacer-_b9800a-c2 .kt-divider{border-top-width:1px;height:1px;border-top-color:var(--global-palette9, #ffffff);width:17%;border-top-style:solid;}<\/style>\n<div class=\"wp-block-kadence-spacer aligncenter kt-block-spacer-_b9800a-c2\"><div class=\"kt-block-spacer kt-block-spacer-halign-center\" style=\"height:60px\"><hr class=\"kt-divider\" style=\"border-top-color:var(--global-palette9);border-top-width:1px;width:17%;border-top-style:solid\"><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Whichever microphone you decide to go for in the end, you can&rsquo;t really go wrong with either of these options. Both of them are more than capable in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/home-recording-studio-lighting\">home studio setup<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In this article, we pit two heavyweight entry-level microphones head to head, the AT2020 vs NT1A. With so many options now on the market, it is always tricky to decide which is the best microphone to buy. This article will talk about two microphones that are great workhorses, well priced, and perfect for any home &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1433,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,114],"tags":[49],"taxonomy_info":{"category":[{"value":22,"label":"Studio Gear"},{"value":114,"label":"Microphones"}],"post_tag":[{"value":49,"label":"Studio Gear"}]},"featured_image_src_large":["https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Untitled-design-5.jpg",700,450,false],"author_info":{"display_name":"Matt","author_link":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/author\/l0t3ch808"},"comment_info":0,"category_info":[{"term_id":22,"name":"Studio Gear","slug":"studio-gear","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":22,"taxonomy":"category","description":"Not sure what studio gear you should buy?\r\n\r\nWe've got you!\r\n\r\nHere you will find reviews, buyer guides, and questions answered for all the latest studio equipment.\r\n\r\nYou'll also find tips &amp; tricks on using your new gear!","parent":75,"count":55,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":22,"category_count":55,"category_description":"Not sure what studio gear you should buy?\r\n\r\nWe've got you!\r\n\r\nHere you will find reviews, buyer guides, and questions answered for all the latest studio equipment.\r\n\r\nYou'll also find tips &amp; tricks on using your new gear!","cat_name":"Studio Gear","category_nicename":"studio-gear","category_parent":75},{"term_id":114,"name":"Microphones","slug":"microphones","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":114,"taxonomy":"category","description":"","parent":22,"count":4,"filter":"raw","cat_ID":114,"category_count":4,"category_description":"","cat_name":"Microphones","category_nicename":"microphones","category_parent":22}],"tag_info":[{"term_id":49,"name":"Studio Gear","slug":"studio-gear","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":49,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":16,"filter":"raw"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1356"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1356"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1356\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7992,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1356\/revisions\/7992"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1433"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1356"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1356"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.homemusicmaker.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1356"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}