Audio-Technica Microphone Comparison - AT2020 vs AT2035 vs AT2050
Posted by Austin Bazaar on 10th Dec 2015
Audio-Technica is an industry leader thanks to high quality construction and affordable price points. Their 20 series large-diaphragm condenser microphones are especially popular for recording and live applications. We decided to compare their popular AT2020, AT2035, and AT2050 models to help you choose the right microphone for your needs!
Home Recording: Audio-Technica AT2020If you're recording at home on a budget, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is an excellent microphone to have in your arsenal. A large diaphragm and 20-20,000 Hz frequency response makes this sturdy cardioid condenser microphone well suited for recording vocals and acoustic stringed instruments like guitar. The AT2020 is a great choice for producing music demos, vocal tracks or podcasts. This mic requires 48V DC phantom power and includes a mic stand adapter. If you're new to recording, the AT2020 really can't be beat. |
Home and Studio Recording / Live Performance: AT2035A step up from the AT2020, the Audio-Technica AT2035 provides even more warmth and clarity to make your recordings and live performances shine. We recommend the AT2035 for vocals, but it can also be used to record piano, stringed instruments, guitar amps, or as an overhead drum mic. This studio-style condenser mic is also great choice for professional voice-overs and podcasts. The AT2035 includes high pass filter and 10 dB pad switches on the back of the microphone to fine tune your recordings depending on the source. With the included shockmount, the AT2035 quite a steal compared to other top brand microphones in the under-$200 range. |
Home and Studio Recording / Live Performance with Polar Pattern Options: AT2050For professional recording and live performance, we highly recommend the Audio-Technica AT2050. This versatile multi-pattern mic gives you the option of three different polar pattern settings (Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8) along with the same roll-off and 10 dB switches found on the AT2035. The omni setting records from all directions (good for group vocals) while the figure-of-eight pattern is perfect for interviews or recording two artists face-to-face. Like the AT2035, this model includes a shock mount and requires 11-52V DC phantom power. |
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Side-by-Side Comparison
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AT2020 | AT2035 | AT2050 |
Designed for | Project/home-studio applications |
Home/professional studio recording; Live performance |
Home/professional studio recording; Live performance |
Element | Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser | Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser | Externally-polarized (DC bias) condenser |
Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid | Cardioid, Omni, Figure-of-Eight |
Frequency Response | 20-20,000 Hz | 20-20,000 Hz | 20-20,000 Hz |
Impedance | 100 ohms | 120 ohms | 120 ohms |
Max. Input Sound Level | 144 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D. | 148 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.; 158 dB SPL with 10 dB pad (nominal) | 132 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL |
Phantom Power Requirements | 48V DC | 11-52V DC | 11-52V DC |
Switches | None | Flat, roll-off, 10 dB pad (nominal) | Polar selection; Flat, roll-off; 10 dB pad (nominal) |
Included Accessories | Mic stand mount, threaded adapter, pouch | Shock mount, pouch | Shock mount, pouch |