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Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: A Comparative Review

Last Updated June 17, 2021

There has been a steady rise in the number of streamers, Youtubers and home studio set ups in recent years, as such microphones are invaluable when it comes to recording any form of media, whether be it a podcast, a livestream or music. A good microphone is an integral part of any streamer, Youtuber or podcaster’s inventory and can make or break the quality of the content. Read this article on Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti to find a comparison between the specs, quality and utility of the Audio Technica AT2020 and Blue Yeti.

There are many options on the market but there are two mics which provide great quality sound for a good price. They are the Audio Technica AT2020 and the Blue Yeti, both mics are in the similar price points and are both condenser type microphones, we will learn where they differ in design and what could make one of them a purchase for you.

Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: Audio Technica Overview

Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: A Comparative Review

Features:

  • Wide Dynamic Range
  • Custom made low-mass diaphragm for good frequency response and fantastic transient response.
  • Good price point

Check Price On Amazon

The AT2020 comes from Audio-Technica, a notable Japanese company established in 1962. They are known for producing quality headphones and microphones made for professional and home use. The AT2020 is a professionally built microphone for home use. It has wonderful build quality and provides a clear, crisp sound.

The AT2020 is a mic with a cardioid polar pattern, which means that it will pick up sound directly in front of the mic, and not only that, it has quite a high SPL, so it is quite versatile when it comes to recording.

Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: A Comparative Review

However, the AT2020 is a condenser microphone, so when you’re using it you’re going to need a phantom power source of 48V. The AT2020 has a 3-pin XLRM-type connector, which is common for microphones of this type.

The AT2020 is all black and of full metal construction. It has, for convenience marked upon it which side is the back, so it can be set up correctly for use. When bought, the mic comes with a stand mount for 5/8”-27 threaded stands with 5/8”-27 to 3/8”-16 adapter and a soft pouch for safe storage during transport.

Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: Blue Yeti Overview

Features:

  • Tri capsule array allows for broadcast quality sound production.
  • 4 pickup patterns for multiple uses.
  • USB connectors allow for plug and play right out of the box.

Check Price On Amazon

The Blue Yeti is simple yet versatile microphone that’s made with creators in mind. As a USB mic, it doesn’t require any extra connections or software to get it up and running. The yeti is able to support up to four polar patterns for appropriate sound pickup in different situations.

Along with the standard cardioid recording mode, it comes with omnidirectional, bidirectional and stereo mode. With several different modes featured into one mic, the Yeti can be used for a wide variety of tasks.

It features a solid metal construction and has several knobs on it. Mainly, the mic can have a set of headphones attached to monitor the mics output and has a volume knob on the front to manage that sound and on the back it has a gain knob and a cardioid mode selector knob. It also features a mute button that is placed above the volume knob.

When you buy the Blue Yeti, you get the microphone itself, a nice metal desk stand and a long USB to USB-a cable. The Yeti can also be screwed into a standard mic stand and has the threads below it.

Pros and Cons:

Audio-Technica AT2020

Pros:

  • Cheap and Budget Friendly
  • Well Engineered with built to last quality.
  • Vocals and instruments sound good.
  • Stylish and classy design

Cons:

  • Does not come with stand.
  • Requires conversion box to use with computers.

Blue Yeti

Pros:

  • Comes with stand and long USB cable.
  • Ideal for home studio setup.
  • Four pickup patterns add versatility.

Cons:

  • Tends to pick up hissing sounds.
  • Sone of the controls is quite fragile.

Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: A Comparative Look

Whilst both mics are condenser type, there are several factors which set either apart from one another. The first is the difference in the connectors and that can make things quite difficult.

The connector used on the AT2020 is a 3-pin XLR type, which is standard for most audio recording devices, however, this serves as a drawback for its intended use as in order to use it properly one must also buy additional equipment, mainly a phantom power supply box, or a conversion box. The Blue Yeti however, doesn’t and comes with a USB connector, allowing for a quick set up and immediate use.

Another factor that sets the AT2020 apart from the Blue Yeti is that it doesn’t come with too many accessories. Excluding the microphone, the AT2020 doesn’t come with any XLR connector wires, a stand or anything else. The Blue Yeti is prepackaged with all the necessary items to use it right out of the box.

Where the AT2020 stands above the Blue Yeti is audio quality and looks, though it features only one recording mode, but has a much higher bitrate and sample rate. The Blue Yeti has a 16bit bitrate and a 44.1kHz to 48kHz sample rate, which is below the AT2020 as those can be set by the interface its being used with. In terms of looks, the AT2020 stands above the Blue Yeti because of its sleek look, making it look professional and clean, whereas the Yeti looks bulbous, especially with that large bottom housing.

In defense of the Blue Yeti, it is far more versatile than the AT2020 as it features 4 different recording modes, a headphone jack for monitoring mic audio in real time and is also much, much easier to operate than the AT2020.

Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti: What Do They Mean as an Upgrade?

So, you’re thinking of getting a new mic because your old one’s coming to the end of its life cycle and you’re on a bit of budget? Which one do you get? The Yeti or the AT2020?

Firstly, the sound quality on the Yeti is rather ordinary, it isn’t bad by any means but that’s all that it’s got going for it, that it doesn’t sound too bad. The stand it comes with is nice and so are the extra modes which are quite useful if you plan to record more than one voice or different sounds.

The main, standout features of the Blue Yeti is that it doesn’t require any extra equipment. As an upgrade from a similar device, it provides something of a diminishing return but in terms of the price point and accessories you’re getting, it’s well worth it.

The AT2020 is a little different in regards to the Blue Yeti. It doesn’t have the same features or accessory list as the Yeti but it performs better. The main let down of the AT2020 is the need for an audio deck and XLR cables but other than that, there isn’t really much needed.

The sound quality on the AT2020 is studio quality and perfect if you’re recording a song or musical instruments, or a voice over. It picks up sounds perfectly and crisply, with almost no extra noises.

Speaking in terms of an upgrade the Audio-Technica AT2020 is quite worth it, but it’s only if you have a bit of budget to play with.

Final Verdict

Audio-Technia AT2020: Like most of Audio-Techinca’s devices, the AT2020 is a wonderful microphone if you want to record videos or music in a home studio, as it can perform just as well as other, costlier mics in its class. Between the two mics it’s also the least pricy, making it perfect for anyone on a budget. However, its low price comes with a few pitfalls. You aren’t provided the cables needed to connect the mic to an audio box and even if you do have the cables or audio box, you need to have a stand to mount it on to use it correctly.

Blue Yeti: The Yeti is made by a company that got its start by making mics geared towards content creators and whilst lacking a little in the sound department when compared to the AT2020, it doesn’t lack in any features.

Having 4 different pickup modes, it’s able to work well in all sorts of environments and this is without mentioning that it’s a USB mic as well. Though a bit more expensive than the AT2020, the Yeti doesn’t lack in any accessories. Able to be used right out of the box and coming with a stand, it proves to be more budget friendly in the long run.

Conclusion

Both these mics are great in their own regards. Both mics are very close with each other in terms of overall quality and versatility, but the Yeti ends up coming on top by just a bit. Can sound quality be sacrificed for accessories? That’s for you to decide.

\You can also read: Best Headphones with Microphone for PC

Filed Under: Blog, buying guide Tagged With: A Comparative Review, Audio Technica AT2020, Audio Technica AT2020 vs. Blue Yeti, blue yeti

Best Blue Yeti Shock Mounts

Last Updated April 19, 2021

The Blue Yeti mic is without any doubt one of the greatest USB microphones around, and many YouTubers, live streamers, producers along with voice actors use it on a daily basis. If you have recently bought one of the Yeti microphones, and would want to complete your studio rig, you should surely consider adding shock mount to it. Lets dive into the best blue yeti shock mounts.

To minimize background noise, vibrations and shock, use a shock mount to hold the mic fully still. There are so many awesome options to choose from, and we’ve compiled a list of the best shock mounts to make your work somewhat easier.

Buying Guide

Before purchasing a shock mount you should go through what advantages and disadvantages they carry and how do these mounts work.

What are shock mounts and how do they work?

Shock mounts are made up of two rings one within the other, connected by an elastic cord. This elastic piece holds the two rings together while still allowing the inner ring to be flexible and therefore move freely.

The microphone should then be attached to the inner ring, ensuring that it remains balanced regardless of what happens to the device. This stops any noise coming from shifting the mic or from being picked up, resulting in a more consistent tone.

Often, the shock mount can be adjusted such that the microphone can be used in a variety of positions without losing control. Shock mounts also have the option of adding a pop filter, which allows the user to ensure that their sound is crystal clear and unaffected by any form of noise.

Advantages of Shock Mounts

Shock mounts have quite a number of benefits, the most important of which is convenience. While you could come up with a complicated setup to hold your mic in place, using a reliable shock mount is a perfect way to get started right away and avoid having to rely on a model which hasn’t been thoroughly tested.

Disadvantages

There aren’t many drawbacks to using shock mounts, as long as you don’t require its help. This does not, though, imply that any shock mount would do the work properly. Most devices, for example, are designed to work with both Europian and American mic stands, and others are designed specifically for either one.

Make sure you have the right kind of shock mount if you want your shock mount to function properly. Don’t worry if you get the wrong type; there will still be adapters on the market which will help you to render one usable with the other.

 Best Blue Yeti Shock Mounts

Product Name Features  Price Buy Now
Blue Radius II
  • It has a custom shock mount built for Yeti USB microphones
  • Comes with a newly designed hinge that keeps the mic in place
  • Compatible with both European and US microphone stands
  • Weigh about 8 ounces
$$ Click Here
AUPHONIX PRO
  • It is made with specially designed suspension bands that keeps your Blue Yeti safe from shocks
  • The shock mount is made with noise isolating plates that allows to keep sound crisp and clear
  • The frame is designed using aluminum
$$ Click Here
Auphonix FBA
  • Has a special Multi-Sized string that suits US and European microphones
  • There’s no need for an adapter
  • Designed with lightweight aluminum material
$$ Click Here
Blue Radius III
  • Has a vintage style design
  • Compatible with both Yeti and Snowball mics
  • The new hinge design keeps the mic isolated from vibrations, noise and shock
$$ Click Here

 

1. Blue Radius II

Check on Amazon

This would be the right model for you if you’re in search of a reliable shock mount which will protect your microphone and keep it stable. The Blue Radius II is extremely powerful for the price, and it’s well built to fit comfortably around the microphone so you would not have any trouble connecting or removing it.

Pros 

  • It is made of good quality material that will last for long
  • Setting up the stand is pretty easy
  • Has an effective design

Cons 

  • Might be a bit heavy

2. AUPHONIX PRO

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The AUPHONIX Pro will be the ideal shock mount for you if you’re looking for a low-cost option that matches the consistency of the best brands on the market. Despite the fact that this model of the Auphonix is somewhat close to the previous one, the black color palette holds together much better, helping you to avoid scratching or destroying it. 

Pros 

  • Budget friendly
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Has a balanced color scheme

Cons 

  • It screws the mic too tightly

3.  Auphonix FBA

Check on AmazonBest Blue Yeti Shock Mounts

This shock mount does an excellent job of securing the microphone in place, meaning you don’t have to think about external movement or vibration. At just 7 ounces, the aluminium build is also quite lightweight, making it simple to bring around.

Pros 

  • Hold microphone in place
  • Lightweight and durable

Cons 

  • Color scheme is not that good

4. Blue Radius III

Check on Amazon

Best Blue Yeti Shock Mounts

This device, such as the Blue Radius II is designed to fit explicitly with Blue Yeti microphones, although it is obviously a little less rugged in nature. We claim this as the screws are just not as sturdy as those on other versions, but it’s still a solid shock mount. Since the screws aren’t as rigid on this piece, there’s a lot more bounce, which contributes to the overall versatility.

Pros 

  • Has a good range of color and design palette
  • Reliable

Cons 

  • For many, the flexibility can be too much

We think it’s important to get a thorough understanding of the competition so you can buy a product that’s genuinely ideal for you. We hope that our reviews and the buyer’s guide have helped familiarize you with the products so that you know exactly what to expect while purchasing a shock mount for you Blue Yeti next time.

You can also read our guide on Best Record Players with Speaker.

Filed Under: Product Reviews Tagged With: blue yeti, Shock Mounts

Best Pop Filter for Blue Yeti

Last Updated March 18, 2021

Best Pop Filter for Blue Yeti
Photo by Michal Czyz

Entertainers are widely popular in every age and place. If you’re into music or making interesting

videos then you’re going to need a good microphone. The best in slot right now from a

ll aspects are the Yeti lineup from Blue Microphones. Then again the Yeti comes with several flaws as well. They do not include pop filters which help with noise protection. Because this is a top of the line microphone, a lot of companies make pop filters especially for the Blue Yeti.

Buying Guide

Before you get a good pop filter for the Blue Yeti, you must look in to all the things that you will need in your filter. Only then can you choose the very best.

Build Quality 

The most important thing while choosing a product is the build quality. This is no exception when it comes to pop filters either. The longevity and the performance all depend on this. The clarity of the vocal and the performance of the audio mixer is also dependent on the built quality. So you must pick one that is made with good materials and the upmost care.

A Good Design 

A good build quality must be followed up by a very good design. By ensuring that a lot of thought has been put through in the design, you can get the most convenient filters for the microphone to use conveniently. It can also make sure that you have no problem using other accessories along with the mic.

A Good Net 

A filter is made with a built well net. It is good to get enough punch to the audio as well as cutting off the dust from getting in.

Noise Cancellation Features

Traditionally microphones do not get this feature. But these days almost all the microphones have it. These cut off almost all of the background noise and only take the user’s voice input. What helps to enhance this feature is the pop filter. So getting an open one would be good.

Good Connectivity 

Most microphones these days either are connected with USB ports or XLR adapters. These can hamper the filters and vice versa. So you should pick a good pop filter that does not hamper the ports nor the audio output. This way you will get a good connectivity.

Good Quality Mic 

Sometimes if the mic is not well optimized or the filters aren’t good, then the filters get damaged. So you need a good mic and a good filter that can withstand that mic. By doing so you can be sure you will get the perfect clarity.

Best Pop Filter for Blue Yeti

From the topics above, you now know of the qualities you need in a good pop filter for the Blue Yeti. So be sure to check the ones that we recommend the most- 

Product Name  Features  Price  Check  on Amazon
Auphonix Pop Filter Screen for Microphones
  • Good Sound Clarity
  • Wide pop filter
  • Smooth Frequency
$23.55-$25.47 Check here
Dragonpad USA Microphone Pop Filter
  • Offers a Very Insightful Sound
  • Good quality PAD
  • Can be turned 360 degrees
$10.00-$12.97 Check Here
Blue Yeti Sponge Pop Filter
  • Easy to install on the Yeti
  • Filters all the sounds fluently
  • Saves you from saliva and moisture 
$10.90-$12.95 Check Here
Moukey Microphone Three-Layer Metal Pop Filter
  • Produces a Pure and Detailed Sound
  • Comes with a default shock mount
  • The pop filter has three layers
$25.00-$28.99 Check Here
Stedman Proscreen XL Pop Filter
  • Good Voice Clarity
  • Can be cleaned easily
  • Easy to Use 
$60-$64.00 Check Here

1. Auphonix Pop Filter Screen for Microphones

Auphonix is widely known for making top of the line professional grade microphone gear. This is a pop filter that can pick up all the instruments with eases. It is also simple to use and comes with a decent price tag.

Pros:

  • Superb noise cancellation
  • Dual mesh filter that does not affect the voice
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • It is somewhat hard to re-adjust

View On Amazon

2. Dragonpad USA Microphone Pop Filter

This is one of Dragonpad USA’s top pop filters in the lineup. The filter is relatively large to cover the entire mic. This can catch all the tunes without any issues.

Pros:

  • Can be turned 360 degrees
  • Comes with a very sturdy stand
  • Can pick up the sounds very precisely

Cons:

  • Filter does not work that well

View On Amazon

 

3. Blue Yeti Sponge Pop Filter

Blue Microphone themselves made this filter to be the perfect fit for the Yeti lineup. This is refined, clean and a very good fit.

Pros:

  • Produces nice, clean sounds
  • Does not let even a bit of background noise through
  • Made with high quality foam

Cons:

  • The price to performance ratio is not good 

View On Amazon

4. Moukey Microphone Three-Layer Metal Pop Filter

This three-layer metal pop filter from Moukey comes with all sorts of accessories out of the box. This can also be cleaned easily.

Pros:

  • The sound is exceptionally rich and detailed
  • Has an isolation shock mount
  • Available in various sizes

Cons:

  • It is too heavy 

View On Amazon

5. Stedman Proscreen XL Pop Filter

Pop FilterIf you are looking for a pop filter that is simple and easy to use, then Stedman has the perfect thing for you. This is also perfect for open edge sounds.

Pros:

  • The sound very rich and noticeable
  • This is extremely versatile
  • It is easy to clean

Cons:

  • It is way too overpriced

View On Amazon

Conclusion

If you’ve read through the entire article then you now know of our recommendations of the best pop filter for Blue Yeti. So you can pick the one that suits you best without any worries. 

 

Read our article about Recording Studio For Beginners: A Quick Start Guide here.

Filed Under: Electronic Devices, gadget Tagged With: blue yeti, Microphone, pop filter

 

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