USB vs. XLR Microphones - Do USB Microphones Sound Good Enough For Recording Vocals?

Summary

This video reviews the Audio Technica AT2020x USB microphone and compares it to the popular XLR AT2020 mic. It explains the key differences between USB and XLR mics, highlighting the affordability and convenience of USB microphones versus the superior sound quality and flexibility of XLR ones. The creator tests both mics by recording vocals, noting that the USB AT2020x is ideal for streaming and podcasting, while the XLR version delivers crisper sound for long-term use. The video concludes that both mics serve different purposes depending on the user's needs.

Takeaways

• 🎤 The USB Audio Technica AT2020x microphone is designed for streaming and online video recording.
• 💡 USB microphones are affordable, easy to set up, and don’t require an audio interface.
• ⏳ USB microphones may have more latency and can only be used one at a time, with average sound quality compared to XLR.
• 🎧 XLR microphones generally provide higher sound quality, less latency, and allow for recording multiple microphones simultaneously.
• 💸 XLR mics require additional equipment like an audio interface, stand, and XLR cable, increasing overall cost.
• 👍 Both USB and XLR microphones have their pros and cons, depending on your recording needs.
• 🎙 Alex Aiono used the AT2020 USB microphone for his covers, and it worked well for him.
• 🎛 The USB AT2020x comes with features like a mix control wheel, headphone input with adjustable volume, and a mute button.
• 🎶 The XLR version is more basic, but was famously used by Billie Eilish on 'Ocean Eyes', highlighting its professional quality.
• 📊 The sound test revealed that while both microphones are good, the AT2020 XLR offers crisper and more detailed sound quality.

Q & A

What are the main differences between USB and XLR microphones?

USB microphones are affordable, easy to set up, and don't require an audio interface, but they often have more latency and slightly lower sound quality. XLR microphones need an external audio interface, are more expensive, but offer better sound quality, lower latency, and the ability to record multiple mics simultaneously.

What advantages do USB microphones have over XLR microphones?

USB microphones are quicker to set up, more affordable, and do not require extra equipment like an audio interface, making them a convenient choice for most users.

What are the downsides of using USB microphones?

USB microphones typically have higher latency, only allow for one microphone recording at a time, and their sound quality, while good, is often not as detailed as XLR microphones.

What makes XLR microphones preferable for professional recordings?

XLR microphones offer more detailed sound quality, have lower latency, and allow for multiple microphone setups. However, they require an audio interface and additional accessories, increasing the overall cost.

What are some use cases where a USB microphone like the Audio Technica AT2020x would be a good choice?

The AT2020x USB microphone is ideal for streaming, podcasting, online video recording, and casual vocal recording. Its convenience and affordability make it a great choice for creators focusing on ease of use.

What features does the Audio Technica AT2020x USB microphone have?

The AT2020x USB microphone includes a mix control wheel, a headphone input with adjustable volume, and a glowing mute button. These features are convenient for content creators.

Why would someone choose the Audio Technica AT2020 XLR microphone over the USB version?

While the XLR version lacks the USB model's built-in features like mix control and a headphone jack, it provides a crisper, more detailed sound quality, making it better suited for long-term use and professional audio recordings.

What additional costs should be considered when choosing the AT2020 XLR microphone?

When choosing the AT2020 XLR, you need to account for the cost of a microphone stand, an XLR cable, and an external audio interface, which are not included with the microphone.

What is a notable example of a professional artist using the Audio Technica AT2020 XLR microphone?

Billie Eilish used the AT2020 XLR microphone to record her hit song 'Ocean Eyes,' showing that this microphone is capable of professional-quality sound despite its simplicity.

How do the AT2020x USB and AT2020 XLR microphones compare in terms of long-term use?

For long-term use, the AT2020 XLR offers better sound quality and flexibility for more professional setups, while the AT2020x USB is more convenient but may not match the XLR version’s performance for high-quality recordings.