Audio-Technica AT2020

The AT2020 is the side-address cardioid condenser that made studio-quality recording affordable, and it remains the default first condenser for countless project and home studios. Its custom low-mass diaphragm gives an extended frequency response and fast transient response, so vocals, acoustic guitar, and voiceover come through clear and detailed rather than dull or veiled. The cardioid pattern rejects sound from the sides and rear, keeping room reflections and instrument bleed out of the take.

With a high 144 dB maximum SPL it also handles loud sources like guitar cabinets and drums without distorting. It runs on standard 48V phantom power over a 3-pin XLR output, so it drops straight into any interface or mixer that supplies phantom power, with no special preamp required. In the box are a pivoting stand mount for 5/8-inch threaded stands, a 5/8-inch to 3/8-inch thread adapter, and a soft protective pouch, so it is ready to record the day it arrives.