Audio Technica AT2020USB-X Review / Test (vs. NT-USB Mini, AT2020, AT2020USB+, & More)

Video & HQ Audio: podcastage.com/rev/at2020usbx
Today I review a new USB mic from Audio Techncia, the 2020USB-X. This is an update to the 2020USB+ and it's offering higher conversion 24-bit/96kHz and it adds a new mute button. It comes with a desktop stand as well which the original did not, but it abandons the standard 2020 mount that the original USB+used in lieu of a 1/4" threading on the bottom. It offers a clear sound that leans into the territory of being a bit harsh, and it picks up a bit more room tone and reflections than I'd prefer. However, in a world of decreasing plug and play mics, it offers a pretty decent sound for those who need the limited functionality.
Buy the Audio Technica AT2020USB-X (Affiliate Link)
Amazon: geni.us/at2020usbx
Sweetwater: n/a
B&H Photo: bhpho.to/44A0Pnj
Thomann: www.thomannmusic.com/audio_te...
NOTE (FULL DISCLOSURE): As an associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more info check my FAQ page links below.
RECORDING SETTINGS:
Conversion: 24-bit / 48kHz
Computer Level: 29%
Boosted in Post: +0dB
SPECS:
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Freq Response : 20Hz - 20kHz
Bit Depth: 16/24-bit
Sample Rate: 44.1 - 96kHz
00:00 - Intro / Price / Disclaimer
00:24 - What’s in the Box
00:48 - Build Quality / Walkthrough
01:33 - Specifications
01:46 - Polar Pattern Test (Tone / Rotation)
02:05 - Plosive Test
02:24 - Distance Test / Proximity Effect Test
02:41 - Background Noise Test
02:57 - Untreated Room Test
03:18 - Shock Rejection Test
03:36 - Mic Resonance Tap Test
03:50 - Mute Button Test
04:04 - Desktop Stand Test
04:35 - Intro to Comparison
05:03 - Razer Seiren Mini Comparison
05:32 - Blue Snowball Comparison
06:00 - Samson C01u Pro Comparison
06:28 - Blue Yeti (Original) Comparison
07:00 - Rode NT-USB Mini Comparison
07:26 - Blue Yeti Nano Comparison
07:54 - Audio Technica AT2020 Comparison
08:28 - Audio Technica AT2500X-USB Comparison
08:57 - Sennheiser Profile Comparison
09:30 - Audio Technica AT2020USB+ Comparison
10:10 - Elgato Wave 3 Comparison
10:42 - sE Electronics Neom Comparison
11:11 - Rode NT-USB+ Comparison
11:35 - Blue Yeti X Comparison
12:11 - Neumann U87 Ai Comparison
12:41 - Music Test
14:09 - Pros & Cons
15:49 - Overall Thoughts
17:22- Recommendation
19:00 - Outro
#USB #Condenser #MicReview
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My Favorite XLR Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favxlr
My Favorite USB Mics: podcastage.com/rev/favusb

[@Vegucci]

I've watched your videos since 2017, after 6 years now I have to buy a microphone and I came back here and to see you still doing the reviews with the same energy and have the same back room full of equipment and instruments even if the years has beaten us is just amazing, thanks for keeping this channel alive!

[@Podcastage]

Thanks for the kind words and revisiting the channel. I'm fortunate enough to be able to still make videos and still enjoy it. I love making these videos to help people make more informed decisions and waste less money. Hope you got the mic you need and it's treating you well. Happy recording.

[@danielbarakat]

You are just the most amazing person ever. I already chose my microphone and not in the market anymore but find myself watching all your videos. Love your sense of humor

[@Podcastage]

That is incredibly kind of you to say. Thank you so much for the kind words.

[@Chrisickle]

This might be the greatest youtube channel for microphones I’ve ever seen. So much depth into the review its insane. Definitely helped a huge ton

[@Nick-ob1ir]

Very useful and indepth microphone reviews. I particularly appreciate sharing country of origin on the box, I've noticed that's something a ton of reviewers leave out.

[@Podcastage]

Thanks so much for watching and thanks for the kind words.

[@mikolaj9559]

I really enjoy your reviews and the format you are using. Works great. I'm looking for a new condenser USB mic because my C01u Pro is slowly giving up on me. If it did not have any issues I'd keep it for 8 more years! It sounds great and I apprecieate the relatively flat freq response. I can't decide between AT2020USB-X and Rode NT-USB Mini; Thanks for the video!

[@Hugex97]

My god, 1st reviewer that i subscribe to. Seemed like the 20 min+ stretch at first but ffound myself thinking "omg, i really didn´t know i needed a shock test for the mics im buying". Thanks for the dedication :D

[@davewestner]

Dude, you have reviewed EVERYTHING. No matter what I'm looking at mic wise, if it's been in production in the last 20 years, your review comes up first

[@Heilzmaker]

I LOVED THE USB COMPARISON SECTION SO HELPFUL

[@brockmannolaf7182]

This video was really fun, interesting and helpful! Thank you, Sir! 🙏

[@Podcastage]

Thank you very much for watching Brock and for the kind words. Glad it was helpful.

[@FLOODOFSINS]

We are all excited for your review of the new focusrite 4th generation. I'm sure there's no question that you will be reviewing all three different models and bundles together. Including all of the software it provide in detail inside your review. I wonder if you would be using the headphone jack on it to monitor or going rogue and plugging it directly into the microphone? Also just for fun, please do a comparison of each model to the previous generation and all of the pros and cons. I would love to see you do a interview with the makers. This video should be a breeze for a person like you and I'm sure it will show up before the weekend. I can't wait to see it. Cheers!

[@Podcastage]

I will review one of them in the future. I will not be doing everything you say. I don't have the time to review 3 interfaces with full comparisons and interviews.

[@samreenkaur9440]

Thank you for the detailed comparison video!

[@MrJoeGooch]

Isn't the 2020-XP the latest model, with built in noise rejection and limiter? Cheers Bandrew, keep up the great work!👍

[@Podcastage]

Unfortunately yes. I reviewed this and while searching for this mic I saw the new XP.

[@AmericanIndianGames]

Great content, I use an AT2035 mainly, good microphone, but this one, sadly they didn't do a good work in noise/shock rejection :/ And again, always the music part is so GREAT to hear XD Great content ❤

[@Podcastage]

Thanks so much for watching and for the kind words. Yeah this one isn't the best, but it's going to serve a very specific group of people really well.

[@DirectorsGarage]

This sounds like a step backward for AT as far as off-axis rejection and picking up bumps and bangs around the mic. The previous AT2020USB had better rejection. However the sound quality is still very good for voice over work. Mids and bass are exceptional. The Rode USB Mini (and NT-1) are the better of the small USB portables, to my ears, and they're probably more expensive. One of the great bargains in USB microphones. Thorough review, as always.

[@boonie3]

NT USB Mini is still great value for anyone who is into streaming and wants features like what the Rode Connect software offers. Sounds way better than a lot of the Blue, Razer, Elgato, HyperX etc mics that kids seem to be using these days.

[@Podcastage]

I personally preferred the NT-USB mini and NT-USB+ over this as well. However, for those who can't install all that software they lose the functionality of those mics. So for the office worker who needs a work from home usb mic where they can't install a bunch of recording software on a corporate device, this is interesting; the same way the Sennheiser Profile USB is interesting.

[@DirectorsGarage]

@@Podcastage I'm always on the lookout of high quality USB mics. I do a lot of voice over work on the road (recording in hotel rooms and cars to iPhones and iPads for Entertainment Tonight). We use blankets, mattresses--anything we can grab to deaden the sound. The old AT2020+ has been my go-to. It's rugged. I also like the Coles 4104B Lip Mic when we can't find a quiet place, but I'm always forgetting the damn USB adapter. Super expensive, but the Coles rejects everything. You can stand next to a generator and record a voice over.

[@PolloPezzotto]

Marvelous review. I really appreciate your videos, keep up the awesome work 💪🐔

[@Podcastage]

I appreciate you giving them a shot and sharing your thoughts on them. It's super helpful. Thank you.

[@omarmarzouk4389]

This review.. sheesh. You're so good at this.

[@Podcastage]

That really means so much to me. Thank you for watching and for the kind words. hope the video helped.

[@omarmarzouk4389]

@@Podcastage It helped exactly the way it should. I'm enjoying my new AT2020+USB that I ordered on the day I watched your review. Gotta say I'm loving it.

[@MarlonGaldamez]

amazing review as always!!! quick question... have you ever broke something while throwing the box?

[@Podcastage]

I don't recall ever breaking something because of throw. ::knocks on wood::

[@45KevinR]

Bandrew did nearly break himself last week, when the throw took him completely out of his chair. It was like Thor's hammer if one forgot to let go.

[@jackdanyal4329]

hey, great review as always, a lot of comparisons and tests, can't imagine the time it requires. huge kudos. but I have a question. I see you set the level of the mic to 21% but still made post-boost +4dB. what's the benefit of not increasing the level to smth 30%(as an example).

[@MrPocketmuncher]

Your videos are so informative and funny. Quock question, i'm looking for a usb mic to mess about with recording some songs for fun. Looking at the blue yeti, your video on it was great, but do you think a few years on that the yeti is still good?

[@_oriTech_]

ive see this a few days ago and thought "uuuh... i hope the "x" brings extra performance but thx to this AWESOME channel... nope... it sounds okay but its nothing i would jump into my car and want it. but i guess... if this thing will drop in price... so for around 90-100 bucks it would be a great mic but the same is true for the competition. as usual an rly good review ive enjoyed a lot. i love the comparison part... this is internetgold. thx for sharing this and keep going ur channel is EPIC.

[@Podcastage]

Thank you so much for watching and for the kind words. It's possible the new XP improves upon this, but I didn't know that existed until after I finished this video and was working on the description.

[@TheNucleux]

Great review 🔥

[@vinnyjr7029]

Excellent review Many thanks for posting. 👍😎💭

[@LupinxJigenTTV]

Awesome review! One question I'm wondering about is if the monitoring audio from the headphone jack is adjustable. I just pickedup the ATR2500x-USB because it's on a great sale but the monitoring isn't adjustable according to your review of it that cameout a long time ago now. Just wondering if this newer USB Mic from AT has that feature or if it's still stuck at the default setting which you found too loud on the ATR2500x-USB. Thanks for the review, subscribed! EDIT: Just looking at the microphone some more and noticed the Headphones and Monitor symbols next to one of the wheels, is that what's that is for? Sorry microphone beginner here. Thanks again.

[@Podcastage]

This feature is discussed at 01:00 in the video. That is exactly what it is for.

[@LupinxJigenTTV]

@@Podcastage thanks dude!

[@RetWaffles]

I appreciate all your work in testing so many products, but I seem to have a unique situation and I'm fairly lost. What would you recommend for a usb interfaced Mic that would compliment a deep voice? I currently use the Razer Seiren mini, and I pretty much have to eat it in order for it to pick up my voice. At a Foot away, you can't hear me at all (it may be defective). I was eyeballing the AT2020+ and X, but now I'm second guessing those. Thanks in advance!

[@Podcastage]

This would probably work fine for you. The Elgato Wave 3 is a nice option too if you want all the features. Depends on what you're looking for in the mic if you just want plug and play or if you want software features as well.

[@nutthanut5052]

For vocal and acoustic guitar recording, what do you recommend between AKA LYRA and RODE NT USB MINI or you can recommend USB MIC UNDER 150$ that you think it’s worth to buy? Thank you so much.

[@DerechoalDerecho]

Plis bring pitza prontou jajajaja great video man! Many thanks

[@Podcastage]

Thanks so much watching and for the kind words.

[@muramusan]

Upset no samson were in the mix loved my go mic but my gtrack pro, im really happy with. Crazy how these sounded pretty close to eachother.

[@Podcastage]

Sorry that the comparison didn't include the mic you wanted. I try to cover a wide group of mics but always end up leaving one out that someone wants. The video is already way too long and turns people off from watching it so I have to draw the line somewhere .Sorry again that the video didn't include what you wanted.

[@wooptoo]

Others have complained that this mic picks up a lot of room noise and is incredibly sensitive. Is this true? I see that you set the gain level to 29% with 0dB in post which is quite unusual to see even for a condenser.

[@Podcastage]

As mentioned in the conclusion of this, I do think it picks up quite a bit of room noise. I set my level a bit too high on this so I didn't have to boost it in post but that should have zero impact on the amount of room tone the mic picks up.

[@mayaspotter]

I need to find the perfect allrounder mic for singing, asmr and podcast and now after I finally took the decision that xlr ist too ecpensive right now, I can't decide if I should take the Audio Technika 2020 or the blue Yeti X because of the program. I really like the sound of the Audio Technica but I feel like The blue Yeti is more sensitive for Asmr. Any oppinions on this?

[@Podcastage]

If you're doing ASMR, you want a stereo mic because that creates the effect that allows you to move around the mic and sound like you're moving around the person. So that would mean the blue yeti.

[@narrator-timothymckean]

Ahh! So many mics. You teased the AKG over your shoulder the while time and never got to it. Maybe in another video?

[@Podcastage]

I did do a full review of it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aIDXh3yKjs-LoqM

[@Lyvvie]

I was surprised it picked up your voice so well at 4ft away which scares me as I live in a house with people who don't walk but stomp and run along hallways, and with cats that aggressively scratch their cardboard anger pads. The desk noise was also maddening. It's too sensitive for anyone other singles living alone in the remotest parts of the land. Even then I bet this mic picks up every bird tweet and wind rustle.

[@Podcastage]

It is a bit more sensitive in terms of room tone and background noise so it will pick that up.

[@workingwiththelight3119]

I just wonder if adding colour LEDs to the microphone not add any emf and increase the noise? I know it's now very popular to have rainbow 🌈 🎤 but does it influence the sound quality? Should the 🎤 be the key point in the video or you as content creator? Maybe I am old fashioned.

[@Podcastage]

I imagine it's possible that they could impact the noise floor by introducing EMF interference. However, a company would HOPEFULLY account for that in added shielding. The noise floor I heard was less of an EMF interference sound and more of a noisy preamp hiss.

[@davidmadison1087]

I hope you can answer this. I'm trying to set up a makeshift studio here in the Philippines. It's almost impossible to avoid noise here from outside. Can you recommend a budget vocal singing mic. I'm looking at something like the AT2020, boya m1000, the Proar c414, or even one of the Fifine or Moano mics. I just can't buy something that will so easily pick up all the rooster, dog and motorcycle noise outside, lol.

[@Podcastage]

Every single mic is going to pick some of that up. The trick is to play the polar pattern and point the null area towards the source of that sound (point the rear of the mic towards the loud sound sources like the road). This AT2020usbx is not great with background noise rejection. I haven't used the M1000, Proar C414 or any Fifine Maono condensers though so I'm not able to offer any advice on those.

[@TrollMeister_]

6" is the optimum distance for voice ? I like to be about 2 ft away. This may be a disqualifier for me.

[@APorTodas]

Amazing one! But everytime I see your reviews, I end up with an urge for pizza like...pronto. Badum tshhh 👊🏼🤘🏼

[@Podcastage]

I hope you're able to get some pizza pronto. I only get pizza pronto one or two days out of the year now. My birthday and then maybe around Christmas.

[@APorTodas]

@@Podcastage It's all for a good reason right? Well get pizza eventually! Take care! 😬

[@enkeierick]

What is your favourite sub $300 usb mic for mostly spoken words BUT with my taste of the big bottom /Shure like sound signature?

[@DukeFavre]

Plug and play. Like the Blue yeti. It's good. Thank you !!

[@xDreaMakeR]

the real question - maybe - is : is-it the best AT2020 in the end ? if not, which is ?

[@Podcastage]

If you have a 2020USB+ and you don't need higher end conversion, if you don't need a mute button, NO. Keep that mic. If you need an XLR mic, NO. It doesn't have XLR so it's not the best AT2020 because it doesn't offer that. If you need a USB mic, I don't know...they JUST released the XP which I haven't tried and that has built in noise reduction which will be interesting to hear.

[@gaston-alegre-stotzer]

Ok now I know how the Neom compares to the Sennheiser... hahaha I bet you left that in because there's always one... FIIIIIIISSSHHH!!! great review as always. btw I believe that the AT2020USB-X is no longer relevant since AT put out the AT2020USB-XP.

[@Podcastage]

I left it in because I said “Heck it. Let’s kill the channel faster by making the videos unnecessarily long by including as many tests, demos, and samples as I can. It’ll be more helpful but fewer people will watch it. LETSGO!” I saw the XP yesterday when i was looking for this on sweetwater. Hecking hecking HECKJHFKDSHKJFHJDKSHFLKDS!

[@gaston-alegre-stotzer]

@@Podcastage I did watch all ... I MEAN ALLL of them samples. Thanks for your effort it does not go unnoticed.

[@OlexanderZnaharenkoUA]

Box! Favourite moment! Dreaming of shure mv 7😊. But watching videos of other mics is interesting to know what sellers have. 🥺😁

[@Podcastage]

Thanks for the continued support Olexander, I very much appreciate it. It's always fun to learn what the current offerings are from different companies in the field you're interested in.

[@robobass25]

i dont know if you would know whats going on with mine ... i got it so i could record in Reason 12 but no matter what i select as the sound driver. nothing happens. the software doesnt see it or something...but the PC definately picks it up. help! its frustrating me big time!

[@SKIMER]

I think I'm gonna stay with my current AT2020USB+. It has a bit more bass, better shock and off-axis rejection and it's most likely gonna be cheaper now.

[@Podcastage]

Yeah, stick with the current mic you have. No need to upgrade unless something is broken or you're trying to solve a specific issue.

[@Dr_Onion-_-]

Hey, i was wondering if you could include the metric system in your videos?

[@Podcastage]

My main audience is in the states, so the system I mention seems to be the most applicable. But here you go. 6" = 15cm 1' = 30cm 2' = 60cm 4' = 1.23m

[@Dr_Onion-_-]

Alr thanks for your response! @@Podcastage

[@mohammadsoim8576]

so by using this at 2020, do I still need soundcard since there is headphone jack provided on this mic?

[@fluphybunny930]

Any number of youtubers and streamers could use this and have perfectly acceptable audio. USB mics have come a long way.

[@Podcastage]

Absolutely. I haven't watched him in a while but JackSucksAtLife had the 2020USB+ and sounded more than listenable. Never had a complaint about his audio.

[@liszechung]

how to use this mic to play music and record voice at the same time Like streaming game play etc Thx

[@syperblog]

pleasant and clear sound

[@Podcastage]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Super. I really appreciate it.

[@andreaassefrock6113]

Hi. Like your channel. Im from Chile and starting voice over. I bought this mic at2020usbx. But think I mande a mistake. My voice sounds diferente, like cripsy. And with the pop filter it sounds kind of distorted. Should I have bought the blue yeti x where a can regulate the voice withe the software it brings? Maybe I can still give it back. Hope you answer. Thankyou

[@Podcastage]

Make sure you have your input level on your computer set properly. Have your recording software up so you can see how loud you are in your meter, then do the following (assuming you're using windows): In Control Panel, click Hardware and Sound, and then click Sound. In the Sound dialog box, on the Recording tab, select your microphone, and then click Properties. In the Microphone Properties dialog box, on the Levels tab, adjust the microphone (and Microphone Boost, if available) levels. As you're talking or singing, adjust the level in windows so that you're peaking around -18 to -12dB. f your audio is still crispy and distorted, then you may not have a functioning microphone and it may be a lemon. I'd try to get a replacement or get a different mic. Also As I mention in the video this mic is a bit top end of focused and it's a little harsh and sizzle sounding, so if you're looking for smooth and ribbon like sound, this is not the right mic. I

[@andreaassefrock6113]

@@Podcastage my answer was waaaay tooo long. The things is no one has give us clases about anything of this at the School whwerevi studiied. I realy Just need your opinión on maybe some smoother sounding mics to start. Tnaks .

[@ChrisCebelenski]

Aren't the mute colors reversed, or is it just me? I'd expect red to be "hot" and live, and blue to be "cool" and muted. I just did some comparison of some USB mics for a specific purpose (easy recording on location when I can't drag in my pre's etc.). I wound up going with the Rode Mini NT USB for a few reasons - portability being a big one, but sound and off-axis rejection just seemed better with the Rode. Price really wasn't a factor. I did try it verses this mic also, but while I found the sound was pretty good, there really wasn't much difference for me vs. the Rode and the side rejection was much worse and lack of low end roll-off meant I would be working much harder in placement.

[@Podcastage]

I think the red = mute makes sense for me and most people because red means stop. I get that red means recording in many places, but for the general population they associate red with stop. Sounds like you've done your due diligence and landed on the right selection. Hope it works out really well for you.

[@mexidraw]

Bandrew, saw a microphone I’m thinking about buying; it’s called G-MARK Pop6; wishing to see a review by you before buying it

[@Podcastage]

I'm not currently planning on reviewing that mic, but thank you for the suggestion.

[@mexidraw]

@@Podcastage you're welcome

[@mcn8o]

I've been looking at the NT-USB+ and this Mic since my other usb mic just broke. Which would you prefer?

[@Podcastage]

Personally I like the NT-USB+ better than this. But you need to decide which one you like the sound of more?

[@narrator-timothymckean]

The 2020USB+ is still my choice. Not sure why AT continuws to make the ATR2500. Thag was their usb iption before they made the 2020usb. Why offer both?

[@Podcastage]

Yeah the 2020usb+ still sounds pretty good and I like the mounting option better. The mute button is a nice addition though. I don't know why they make both, maybe different departments and they're geared towards different people who want different sounds? Not sure.

[@sunnyphantom2010]

Hi bandrew what your arm boom with Neumann u87 not newwer arm boom Thanks

[@Podcastage]

If you're referring to the mic in the background it's on the OC White Ultima Low Profile gen 2. Hope that helps.

[@arildoyen8705]

Not bad and like you said, not my favorite. I know you get asked about other microphone reviews but I have 2 mics that I feel deserve your expertise reviewing... the Audix PDX720 and the Neat Worker Bee 2. LMK if you're interested and I can send them to you.

[@Podcastage]

Aril - Thanks so much for the suggestion. I'll definitely consider checking both of those out. I do need to check out the worker bee 2 for sure. I haven't gotten around to looking into the Audix much. I know a few reviewers covered it but I haven't listened yet.

[@sand8908]

oh boy a bandrew upload >w

[@Podcastage]

Everybody run for cover, Bandrew has uploaded!

[@glennmercer8939]

I have a couple of these mics (Profile and C01U) and have owned the Snowball Ice (which is surprisingly good for the money) and although I really like the Profile, the Samson still sounds amazing next to all of these newer mics. Hopefully, they'll release a newer version with LED lighting.

[@Podcastage]

Samson's original mics can still hold up in terms of sound and definitely hold up in terms of value.

[@nintembo6476]

What’s better the apogee hype mic or the audio technica for singing

[@Podcastage]

I haven't used the Apogee Hype Mic before so I can't speak to whether or not it's better than the AT.

[@7MPhonemicEnglish]

I liked the sound of the AT2500x and the Neom the best, but that's a spoken voice assessment.

[@Podcastage]

Those both work quite well. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it.

[@narrator-timothymckean]

I still have the 1st gen atr2500 and love it. It's got an Open, natural sound that most current USB mics don't.

[@helmanfrow]

How about a USB mic buying guide?

[@user-gg6kc2ls6k]

hey man what you think about topping l30 ii headphone amp ?

[@Podcastage]

I don't really review headphones or amps. I'd highly recommend checking out The Headphone Show, DMS, Crinacle, ElJefeReviews, ThisIsTechToday. They all have great headphone coverage and they may have covered that device. Sorry I can't help.

[@45KevinR]

From your, and dare I say other people's, reviews the newer AT USB mics seen to struggle versus their main predecessor the 2020-USB+. They don't add very much and lose some of the quality features such a handling noise. They end up competing too closely with the Fifine & Maono devices which have similar weaknesses but a rather lower price. The newer AT's may still be mechanically better than the economy brands but they seem to have lost some of the acoustic quality that we'd all hope the brand name & price would deliver. Whereas the Sennheiser Profile (as an example) is also software free, and superficially boring, but delivers on all fronts. Though to do that the price is higher than the budget brands.

[@Podcastage]

The Sennheiser and this mic are very comparable. I wouldn't say the Sennheiser delivers on all fronts though, I think it sounds much worse than the 2020x. So if it's just based on the sound characteristics, I'd go AT2020X, but I record in a decent room and I shut off background noise. If someone doesn't care as much about the sound and they want a mindless mic that just works and is inoffensive, the Sennheiser I think would be the better route.

[@lucas_92]

Looks like the RODE NT USB+ is still holding up the top spot (for me) :)

[@Podcastage]

The NT-USB+ is really a good mic and the more modern usb mics I test the more that opinion grows.

[@lucas_92]

@@Podcastage indeed! In fairness, background noise can still be an issue unless you use a noise suppression filter or treat the heck out of the recording environment. If only we had advanced processing through RODE central!

[@sglatitude]

@@Podcastage But the problem with Rode and other USB microphones that need software to run either on MacOS or Windows, they prone to have driver issues. For example: my Rode NT USB+ cannot work on MBP on intel chip running MacOS Sonoma. The Rode tech support informed me that the Rode Central has issues with MacOS Sonoma on intel chip. This is true because I have no issue with Rode central running on my MacMini M2 with MacOS Sonoma. Now I plan to buy another USB microphone for my spouse that does not need any software for typical office use, office voice recording (not necessarily studio voice recording). Any suggestion, please let me know. Thanks 😊

[@damolin77]

The USB-x is OK. If it was me I would spend the extra $20 and get the sE Electronics Neom at $150. I seen a review A few years ago on a cheap microphone Oscure Mics Did where there was a plastic sleeve over the microphone and the way it made the cheap microphone sound while handling it was incredible. Why don't more manufactures do this? I think more people would be willing to pay a extra $5 to improve the microphone handling 100%.

[@Podcastage]

They should all invest in improving the handling noise and shock rejection. I wonder if this suffers because they abandoned the old style of mounting (which was the same as the XLR AT2020) in lieu of a 1/4" thread that goes directly into the mics body. I'm not sure.

[@techmed-rainer]

Danke!

[@Podcastage]

Thank you SO much for the support Rainer. It truly means the world and helps with the overhead of buying a lot of the gear I review. You are so generous. Thank you.

[@Kamuixmod]

mhm the decisions kinda hard as i'm coming off an AT2020USB+ which died off after 9 years of service (isn't picking up any audio anymore besides extreme loud clapping). Was looking at the 2040 and the 2020USB-X but with all these other options, it's even harder to decide now, especially if you're in an untreated room which is just barely 2m x 3m x 2m big

[@Podcastage]

Podmic USB is a pretty decent option. Shure MV7 is another good one. Ultimately it comes down to what features you need in your mic though and which mic you like the sound of the best.

[@Kamuixmod]

Don't need anything special in regards to features honestly speaking. What about the Elgato Wave 3 btw?

[@Podcastage]

@@Kamuixmod The features on the Wave 3 are great. It's well designed and functions as expected. It's not the greatest sounding mic ever, but it is functional as heck.

[@Kamuixmod]

@@Podcastage ah thank you ^.^ If i had the option, which mics would you say are better tham the Elgato?

[@artysanmobile]

One day, in the not too distant future, a vintage microphone will be easy to spot. It will be the one with only an XLR connector.

[@Podcastage]

I really hope you're not correct here. One of the reasons I love mics so much is because they have such a long life, and that's thanks to the analog nature. My SM7b doesn't need a firmware update and it won't become incompatible with the next OS., Let's hope this forecast is not accurate.

[@Aydarkzero]

Pretty interesting but I think i'll stay w/ the wave 3

[@Podcastage]

No need to upgrade at all. The wave is a perfectly workable mic with a lot of great functionality.

[@staeffn]

What headphones are being used there?

[@Podcastage]

Rode NTH100s

[@staeffn]

Thank you very much!

[@catandcar1209]

サンキュー いいレビューでした😄

[@CezaryKosko]

super nitpicky but the 1/4" threading seems to encourage non-stable photo/video-style mounting, sounds like a supremely bad idea given it's not particularly great at handling shocks (written as of ~6:00 in case that's talked about later)

[@Podcastage]

I'm not sure if that is the cause of the poor shock rejection or not, but I'm not the biggest fan of it either. I prefer the older style of mounting on the AT2020USB+ and the standard XLR AT2020. I don't know why they made this shift.

[@CarloLeonKolega]

2040usb verison?

[@Podcastage]

I don't understand the question. This is a USB version of the mic, yes.

[@BiteSizeWoW]

Looking for a new microphone to try produce better content but man its overwhelming. So many variables.. i cant find a clear decision!

[@Podcastage]

There are a lot of decisions based on the use case, what sound profile you like, and how you want to set it up. USB can be quick and easy so something like the Samson Q2u, AT2020X, AT2500X are all fine plug and play options. If you want a bit more control like processing Rode NT-USB Mini, Elgato Wave 3, Rode Podmic USB, Shure MV7, are good options if you want a bit more function out of your usb mic.

[@BiteSizeWoW]

@@Podcastage thanks so much for the reply mate. If I can ask, do you have any particular boom arms you'd recommend? I've seen some brilliant ones but spending over $200 for an arm holding a mic half the price is a no go haha

[@Vynivas]

Hey my WASD keys love me, They sad.. Yes but still love me. c: Also should of not have included XLR mic's in this usb review/test. may get new people confused. "should of posted it at the end about xlr mic reviewing"

[@Podcastage]

Sorry to have included mics that confused people.

[@needfortweed8734]

I actually felt that it sounded better on voice than on instruments. The instruments felt like they were lacking something...

[@Podcastage]

On voice it is certainly fine. As of the time of finishing the episode I didn't get any complaints about the podcast audio.

[@needfortweed8734]

@@Podcastage do you often get complaints about podcast audio? I always figured that a lot of the problems people have with getting audio is often due to bad mic technique. But of course, your podcast is for the more sound conscious folks...

[@Podcastage]

@@needfortweed8734 oh people tell me regularly if something sounds bad. In the grand scheme of things I think it’s still pretty good audio, but people listening to my show are more critical than the average listener.

[@needfortweed8734]

@@Podcastage in that light it makes sense...

[@sickviscera]

Have you been playing Baldur’s Gate?!

[@Podcastage]

I don’t know what that is. I wish I had time to play any games but I worl 60-80 hours a week between the day job and KZbin.

[@sickviscera]

@@Podcastage Damn dude hope you’re taking care of yourself. Sounds like you need a vacation.

[@satyambastia2905]

First comment. Your reviews really helped me to collect the best gears out of the tonn out there. Podcastage forever and always ❤

[@Podcastage]

I'm honored that the channel has helped make more informed gear choices. That means a lot. I hope you're making some great sounding recordings. Thanks for the kind words.

[@theglobalzrecordingproject]

Too much high frequency push for my taste to use on spoken voice - too much sizzzzzle. Agree it is clear, which can be okay depending on what you are recording. Not wild about the noise. As someone already stated, spend a couple of more coins and get the sE NEOM, IMHO.

[@Podcastage]

Is sE going to dominate the competition again? Interesting. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it.

[@billlord4203]

@@Podcastage I swear I like mics from other companies too!

[@thestingyham1188]

This mic: SSsSss SSSSss SSSSSss in the highs.

[@Podcastage]

It's not the smoothest sounding mic at all, that's for sure.

[@nachtaktiveselement]

I think, the world could realy need a U87 USB. I'm allready thinking on the review. "Greetings earthllings. Today i'm reviewing the world's most expensive USB-microphone. It cost around $4000." 😁

[@Podcastage]

Please god no. Also, I don't have that kind of money coming in to afford that. Haha.

[@appomobi]

Samson owned them all

[@Podcastage]

Samson is pretty darn good.

[@TavoIce]

Great

[@Podcastage]

Thanks for watching and commenting

[@BREAKLONE]

I'M VERY DEPRESSED 😭 please reply me I do both rap and sing... mostly rap ! But i need a new mic for my deep voice.. I don't have laptop I have my phone I have an interface called Audio array AI-04 And i have an audio technica ath m20x headphone Ok so .Some say AT2020 is best for rap vocal Some say AT2020 is bad in high end and bad at noise cancellation , it produces very harsh sound but because of its so popular all are saying it is best best best😒 i don't know. Others say there is MXL 770 best for deep voice..but it has 30hz-20khz 😭 not 20hz-20khz as others have..but I don't know whether it will be a problem or not for me .. On the other side some of the saying there is SE X1a , AKG P120 sir you tested all these mic.. Please sir choose one mic for my deep voice.. I just need the best mic for you for me for rapping under 100$ dollars please I'm requesting you...🥺 I want to rap..

[@FLOODOFSINS]

Why would a person monitor their audio through the microphone when obviously they are going to plug the microphone into their computer which would have an input jack?

[@zdoswiadczenia]

Probably because they want to monitor they mic while they're talking.

[@FLOODOFSINS]

@@zdoswiadczenia they would still be doing that because the headphones will be plugged into the laptop

[@andy.cher404]

@@FLOODOFSINS looks like you don't get it or never tried it. It clearly says in the name of that jack a "zero latency monitoring" When you listen to yourself through PC it WILL lag to the point you can hear yourself twice and it will be VERY distracting when you talk and try to think.

[@FLOODOFSINS]

@@andy.cher404 it's $139 microphone and going by the 90/10 rule of business the parts are most likely costing $14 or less. Second, a professional is not buying this mic. This mic target audience is going to be the clueless millennial or virgin mic user. They don't know what the hell they're doing but have big dreams. Zero-latency will mean nothing knowing all of this other information because they're content will be lacking. You can have the best $5,000 PC and be using chatGBT and still have a crap essay. If a person is focusing on zero latency on a $139 mic they are in a world of hurt.

[@Podcastage]

Someone would want a headphone jack on mic because it does offer zero latency monitoring. You may not think that's important or that people will not understand what it is, but it's quite important to be able to hear the sound you're recording to make sure you're not popping the mic and to make sure it's set up properly. Also, as someone points out if you're monitoring your mic input through the computers headphone output you would have to go into your settings and select "monitor audio source" (or whatever the windows selection is) which is quite delayed and it ends up sounding like slap back echo and I found it quite difficult to speak while hearing that latency. It's not quite as bad as speech jamming but it's difficult.

[@yasonrj2730]

Suggest me a mic under$400

[@sanjaysstruggle]

This is under 400$ bro lol. I like your penguins

[@Podcastage]

I can't give you any suggestions based on that single bit of criteria. I'm sorry. There are hundreds of mics under that price point that would serve different use cases or different preferences better.

[@yasonrj2730]

@@sanjaysstruggle 😂😂😂

[@sugarbait]

Best " Hello Nuemann" ever 🤣

[@Podcastage]

Thank you!

[@NovaDoll]

First

[@Podcastage]

🥇

[@okay1904]

Sounds nasal prominent.. Not nice..

[@Podcastage]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it.

[@idarrruwu]

could you do a tutorial on tweaking this microphone with voicemeeter banana?

[@Podcastage]

I don't have voice meeter because I use Mac so I'm not sure I'd be able to offer much insight there.

[@kennethbailey7105]

*curiously ponders how many usb mics Bandrew will review until he reviews the Warm Audio WA-251* 🥲🙃

[@Podcastage]

ALL OF THEM! My goal is to not review mics until they're discontinued or outdated. Hence why this review came out a few days after the announcement of the XP.

[@kennethbailey7105]

@@Podcastage understandable 🙏🏽