Review on Enhanced Performance: Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone (Renewed) by Chad Judex

Refurbished. Oh, the brand that brings with it. You might not think you're getting the same quality or durability of a product when it says 'Refurbished' next to its name, but don't let that fool you! This product comes in its original packaging with original contents, as good as new and ready to use. If you're thinking of buying the AT2020 USB+, why not buy it for $30 less? -- FIRST IMPRESSION: When I took out the microphone, I immediately noticed the considerable weight. It's a very heavy product, which I think says a lot about its quality. The microphone, although said to be refurbished, appears to be brand new. I love its sleek black design. There are two controls on the microphone, one labeled "MIC" and "COM" and the other with a small headphone icon showing volume. On the back of the microphone (labeled) is a headphone jack and on the bottom is your microphone's USB input cable. Connecting and setting up was easy. It's really just plug and play and sounds great right out of the box. Let's take a look at the pros and cons! ADVANTAGES (7): • High-quality workmanship. This mic is HEAVY. It's so well made that you can feel the quality it delivers without even plugging it in. It's probably the first thing you'll notice, and it makes a great first impression. The design is also impeccable, which doesn't hurt either. ;)• Beautiful sound. The sound quality of this mic is incredibly high, unlike anything I've ever used before (including the Blue Yeti). The audio is incredibly clear and the rear of the microphone filters out background noise. You can also use the side/top of the mic to pick up sound, but generally anything in front of the mic is loudest. However, I live in a fairly quiet area with little background noise, so I can't confirm how well it hides noisy air conditioners or noisy neighbors. However, compared to all other mics I have used, the white noise picked up by this mic is the lowest compared to most other mics of the same cost and even more expensive. • Long cable (about 2m?) The cable is long and MUST be able to extend from your computer, through the boom arm and into the bottom of the microphone if you want to use it. If you run out of length, you can easily buy a Revain USB extension cable for a fairly low price • Built-in audio jack There is an audio jack on the back of the microphone that allows you to connect headphones. It's basically just an extension of your regular 3.5mm audio jack. This is very handy as it extends the length of your regular headphone cable and also allows you to hear the microphone input if you wish. • Adjustable volume and microphone/drawer tone. or computer) with the left controller and the volume with the right controller. If you turn the rotary control all the way to "MIC", you can only hear the sound from your microphone. Turn the knob to the "COM" position and you can only hear your computer. Intermediate lets you hear both, and you can set how many of them you want to hear. Volume does NOT match your computer's actual output volume, so you can adjust the volume until it's perfect for you at the default volume settings. • Plug and Play Plug and Play. If that doesn't work, make sure to troubleshoot things like checking your default recording devices or making sure the volume control is turned up a bit if your headphones are plugged into a microphone. If you're still having trouble with your microphone, leave a comment or contact us and I'll try to help you, or contact Audio Technica customer service • 1 Year Warranty You will receive a 1 year warranty card in the packaging. which you can fill out and use as needed. It's good to know that even after the product refurbishment, Audio Technica stands behind their product 100%. CONS (2, sort of?): • No stereo option. It's not advertised as stereo so it wasn't a disappointment. But this mic had a stereo option, it would be the best mic out there for any occasion. • The AT2020 USB+ Microphone Stand comes with a small microphone stand that screws directly into the included mount. While this SHOULD sound like a pro, it's a pretty obvious downside for a number of reasons. The rubber pad on the mic stand that holds the mic in place slides easily over standard wooden or smooth surface tables. Additionally, the included stand isn't strong enough to support the weight of a heavy mic, and the mic itself easily tips over when you try to move or adjust it. Get a new AT2020+ for $150 or a certified refurbished for $120, get a certified refurbished. Certified refurbished looks and works amazingly well. I see no reason not to buy this certified refurbished version from Audio Technica instead of the $30 more expensive regular version. I'd suggest spending what you're saving on a mic boom to replace the included stand, and maybe a pop filter and shock mount along the way. It's a solid, high-quality purchase at a relatively low price, and it's not really a problem. IF YOU CONSIDER THE BLUE YETI: If you're in doubt about choosing this mic over the Blue Yeti and are NOT looking for a stereo/binaural input, get the AT2020 USB+. But if you need a mic for a podcast or any other situation where a stereo mic is preferable, I recommend the Blue Yeti. In terms of quality, this mic is clearly the best option, but don't get too excited because the Blue Yeti really isn't far behind. They're both great buys and you won't be disappointed either way. RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES: • Microphone stand. You can get a pretty solid mic boom for around $12. You can mount it to a side or a vertical bar, but due to the orientation of the springs it is not recommended to mount it upside down • Pop Filter You don't need this if you're just having a conversation on Skype or Discord. , but if you plan on singing or recording a voiceover or anything else that requires you to get closer to the mic, this will help your breath and P be less damaging to your ears. • Shock Mount Again, you don't need this, but I would highly recommend it for anyone recording or singing voiceovers. This helps reduce or eliminate shake if you bump into a table or microphone while recording. Just be sure to look for a 48-54mm shock as anything smaller will be too small for the mic. so impressed with it. The sound quality is phenomenal. I use it almost every day and sometimes for hours and it still works. I'm in love