Audio-Technica AT2020 vs Rode NT1 (5th Generation)

Quick answer

The Audio-Technica AT2020 and the Rode NT1 (5th Generation) are cardioid condenser microphones. Both publish a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20000 Hz, with maximum sound pressure levels reaching 144 dB SPL on the Audio-Technica and 142 dB SPL on the Rode.

The main difference is connection options. Audio-Technica lists an integral 3-pin output requiring 48V DC phantom power. Rode lists both XLR and USB connectivity, with a digital USB-C connection for recording directly into a computer.

So the question to answer first is whether your setup uses an external interface or records straight into a computer.

Choose Audio-Technica AT2020 if

• You want an integral 3-pin output connector: Audio-Technica lists an integral 3-pin XLRM-type output connector and 48V DC phantom power.
• You want a maximum input sound level of 144 dB SPL: Audio-Technica lists 144 dB SPL, while Rode lists 142 dB SPL.
• You want an included stand mount and pouch: Audio-Technica includes a stand mount for threaded stands and a soft protective pouch.

Choose Rode NT1 (5th Generation) if

• You want dual XLR and USB connectivity: Rode lists both XLR and USB connectivity, including a digital USB-C connection.
• You want on-board DSP processing: Rode lists on-board DSP for advanced audio processing.
• You want an included shock mount and pop filter: Rode includes a shock mount, pop filter, XLR and USB cables.

By use case

Podcasting

Audio-Technica highlights the AT2020 as suitable for musicians, streamers, podcasters, and other content creators.

Rode lists a digital USB-C connection for recording directly into a computer or laptop.

Check your workspace setup to determine whether an interface or direct computer connection fits your desk setup.

Vocals

Both microphones feature cardioid construction designed to capture vocals and speech.

Rode specifies a noise figure of 4dBA, while Audio-Technica lists a noise level of 20 dB SPL.

Position the capsule facing your mouth and sing directly on axis when recording vocal tracks.

Guitar

Rode notes that the NT1 (5th Generation) excels on acoustic guitars as well as percussion and piano.

Audio-Technica lists a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm providing extended frequency response from 20 Hz to 20000 Hz.

Experiment with microphone placement relative to the instrument soundboard to find the right balance for your instrument.

What the specs do not tell you

Frequency response specifications show bandwidth limits from 20 Hz to 20000 Hz, but do not describe the frequency response curve across that range.

Our sources for Audio-Technica do not state a pad, a high-pass filter, or USB connectivity.

Our sources for Rode do not state a physical pad switch, a physical high-pass filter switch, or a headphone output jack on the microphone.

Audio-Technica includes a stand mount and threaded adapter, while Rode includes a shock mount and pop filter in the box.

Test the microphone with your recording hardware and room acoustic environment to verify proper gain staging.