Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR) vs Audio-Technica AT2035
A side-by-side look at Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR) and Audio-Technica AT2035 for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR)
The benchmark entry-level condenser that has launched a thousand podcasts
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Audio-Technica AT2035
A step up from the AT2020 with a pad, filter, and extra headroom
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| Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR) | Audio-Technica AT2035 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | First-time XLR podcasters who want a reliable, proven condenser without overspending | Podcasters stepping up from the AT2020 who want more control and headroom in one package |
Key features
Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR)
- Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Cardioid condenser XLR, requires 48V phantom power
- Low-mass diaphragm for accurate transient response
- Custom-engineered capsule with 20 dB pad capability
- Self-noise 20 dB SPL
- Includes stand clamp and protective pouch
Audio-Technica AT2035
- Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Cardioid condenser XLR, requires 48V phantom power
- Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter for rumble reduction
- Switchable -10 dB pad for high-SPL sources
- Custom shockmount included
- Self-noise 12 dB SPL
Pros and cons
Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR)
Pros
- Excellent sound quality at an entry-level price
- Natural, uncolored midrange suited for spoken word
- Well-built, solid metal housing
- Massive user community - tutorials and settings widely available
Cons
- No switchable pad or high-pass filter
- Picks up room noise readily - not for untreated spaces
- Requires 48V phantom power
Audio-Technica AT2035
Pros
- Built-in pad and high-pass filter add real-world flexibility
- Lower self-noise than AT2020 at 12 dB SPL
- Shockmount included - saves accessory cost
- Handles louder sources and varying room conditions better
Cons
- Requires a treated room - condenser sensitivity picks up ambient noise
- Requires 48V phantom power
- Sound character is similar to AT2020 - not a dramatic upgrade
The verdict
Choose Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR) if
First-time XLR podcasters who want a reliable, proven condenser without overspending.
The AT2020 has earned its reputation honestly - it sounds significantly better than its price suggests, with a natural midrange and just enough presence to keep voices clear without sounding hyped. It lacks the switchable pads and filters that higher-end…
Choose Audio-Technica AT2035 if
Podcasters stepping up from the AT2020 who want more control and headroom in one package.
The AT2035 is the AT2020 with the two features the AT2020 most needs - a high-pass filter and a pad. Those additions meaningfully expand the mic's utility for recorded music, interviews with varying source levels, and rooms where low-frequency rumble…