Bundled with the Yeti is Blue Voice, a comprehensive suite of software audio effects, filters and samples but it's not a requirement for recording. The automatic gain control is going to be of less interest for some. However, there are plenty of us that can get quite loud when we get excited (when we’re usually not), and this feature does a good job of adjusting the mic volume on the fly to minimize any sort of distortion. Of course, additional equipment can increase the cost of your overall setup which means USB microphones are often the more affordable option, as they have a built-in recording interface and preamp. That said, XLR microphones offer greater flexibility as they can record multiple vocals or instruments simultaneously and can also be used live - all while producing professional standard sound. Audio-Technica’s AT2031 is engineered to amplify and record stringed instruments, piano and percussion. It offers a smooth extended frequency response with a slight rise in the high frequency region for a more detailed sound. As with all microphones in the 20 Series, the AT2031 offers outstanding performance and sturdy construction at a cost-effective price.

The feature of note for both of these mics is their USB connectivity. This makes them very easy to set up and does away with the need for a separate audio interface, which saves time, space, expense and, ultimately, a whole load of potential hassle. Instead of the mini tripod that shipped with the original AT20202USB+, the new version has a sturdy desk stand that’s far more stable when used on a desk. In addition, the stand can be removed so the microphone can be mounted on a boom arm or mic stand thanks to a 3/8" to 5/8" threaded adapter. I would have preferred to see a full-sized thread on the base of the microphone, but as the included stand is so well made, that’s not such a big issue. There is currently a range of seven microphones within our 20 Series, each providing unique qualities to benefit particular applications, from live performances to at-home studio recordings. In 2008, we launched our AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone and the AT2050 Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone.

How do you control the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X?

The AT2020 is Audio-Technica’s 20 Series flagship microphone and our best-selling model. Ideal for both the studio or at-home applications, the AT2020 features excellent performance specifications, including a custom-engineered diaphragm that provides extended frequency response. Artists, content creators and audio engineers can rely on the AT2020 for a smooth, natural sound with maximum accuracy.

The Yeti can be used to mic up other instruments but in many cases it'll prove too heavy and awkward to do so. Ideally, you'll want to restrict the Yeti to your desk or suspended from a robust boom arm – it's at its best recording vocals. I recommend getting a pop filter since my plosives were noticeable in the test recording every time I said something with the letter p in it. In 2021, sales of our AT2020 surpassed the one million mark. To celebrate this extraordinary milestone, Audio-Technica donated one million yen to non-profit organisation Hungry For Music charity, which helps to provide musical opportunities for disadvantaged youths. A particularly fitting tribute, since the AT2020 was initially designed almost twenty years ago to provide an affordable opportunity to bring high-quality sound to everyone.You will need a 3-pin XLR female to XLR male microphone cable to connect your AT2020 to a phantom power supply or audio interface. Speech recordings confirmed that this mic has essentially the same sound character as its wired counterpart: rather than sounding completely neutral, it does add a hint of warmth to the lower mids in a vocal, and it imparts a very slightly compressed quality that's mildly reminiscent of some valve mics. In other words, it has a slightly flattering tonality. In past tests we've found the AT2020 to be kinder to female vocals than many budget microphones, and there's nothing to suggest that this version will be any different in that respect. The AT2020 USB+ is well suited to a wide range of vocal styles, though, and it can also double up as a very capable acoustic instrument mic. Based on the critically-acclaimed AT2020, the USB adaptation offers plug and play compatibility - perfect for those looking to upgrade their setup. Featuring the studio-quality articulation and intelligibility the AT2020 is so well-known for, the AT2020+USB utilises a USB output which makes it ideal for home studios. There's no getting away from the fact that the appropriately named Yeti is huge compared with the diminutive AT2020USB+. Mounted on its quirky stand, it stands tall at 295 mm / 11.6" and weighs in at 1.55 kg / 3.4 lbs. That's substantial. Smooth, extended frequency response ideally suited for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording and voiceover use

Audio-Technica’s AT2020 is a condenser microphone. It is a critically acclaimed model that provides affordable, professional-quality audio for both recording and home studios.Engineered for live performance applications, the AT2010 handheld mic produces crystal-clear vocal performances. The AT2010 is the first of its kind within the 20 Series and has been specifically crafted for close-up vocal use in live applications. This is a medium-diaphragm condenser with just a cardioid polar pattern available, so It's designed as an all-rounder, and performs wonderfully as such. When recording spoken vocals, it has a warmth and clarity when you're right up to the diaphragm, and doesn't start to sound roomy until you're about four feet away. With a 44KHz sample rate and 16-bit depth, it falls in line with the specs of most other mics on the market, offering CD-quality audio as the audio signal is converted to digital.

In the red corner we have the no-nonsense AT2020USB+. The name may sound like a spare part from an air-conditioning unit, but it befits this mic's sombre looks. Small, tough, resilient, accurate and lightweight, it's no, ahem, lightweight. The small footprint of the stand and the compact size of the microphone’s body is something that I can really appreciate as someone who frequently flexes between office and remote working. The Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X is small enough to fit comfortably in my bag and is built sturdy to the point where I’m not worrying about it during commutes. If you have a cramped gaming or office desk, then you won’t have to worry about the stand taking up that much room. Just be warned that it could sit slightly lower than where your mouth may align. It’s nothing that had a significant impact on me, as the Cardioid condenser has a decent range to it, but it’s something to bear in mind. Should you buy the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X microphone? Buy it if… If you want a mic that you can plug straight into your computer and start recording almost immediately then neither of these mics will disappoint. The only thing you'll need to do is set the gain level, and you're off.

The AT2031 was released in 2011 to provide a cost-effective recording solution for stringed instruments in both live and studio applications. As much as I like the AT2020, its flimsy tripod leaves much to be desired. It never quite sits on the desk and often feels like it's going to tip over with the slightest bump desk bump. Bad mounts are common with microphones at this price range, but considering this isn't Audio-Technica's first USB microphone, it could be a lot better, given its pedigree.