AT2020 Mic Upgrade Service

While the AT2020 is a decent mic for its $99 price, our upgrade kit takes it to the next level.

Benefits

• Larger capsule reduces self-noise
• Higher circuit sensitivity reduces preamp noise
• Fuller low mids and bass yields a more authoritative sound
• Smoother high-frequency response creates more balanced-sounding tracks

About the Upgrade

We replace the AT2020's capsule and circuit entirely. This means the mod can be used to repair and resurrect a broken microphone. After the upgrade, the only parts remaining of the original mic are the body housing and XLR insert. All internal wiring, the PCB, the capsule, capsule mount, and deckplate are new and custom parts.

The circuit used for this mod is similar to our AT2020 DIY kit, but contains a topology change that improves the mic's signal-to-noise ratio. 

This upgrade incorporates a custom-made PCB bracket, and a shockmount/damping system for the capsule, to prevent microphonics. These two devices were developed for the "Plus" edition of the DIY mod kit.

This mod incorporates two cosmetic changes:

• the foil sticker at the bottom of the grille is removed, to expose the screws that hold the housing together
• we apply a vintage diamond logo badge to the front of the microphone

How It Works

Reserve your upgrade by ordering the service from this page. Then ship your microphone to us. See the notes about that process here. We will contact you with the expected upgrade timeline (typically 3 business days) and return shipping date once we've received your microphone.

Cost

Included in the purchase of this AT2020 upgrade service: installation of a new circuit and capsule into your AT2020, including wiring, burn-in, and QC, plus return shipping in the United States. You would ship your AT2020 microphone to us so that we can perform the upgrade.

Availability

This service is available to US residents only, or to people from other countries so long as the shipping address for the finished mic is within the United States.

Compatibility

This upgrade is compatible with the Audio Technica AT2020 (XLR version only, not the USB version), and the Digital Reference DR-CX1.

For the AT2035, see this page.

Optional Upgrade

We have developed a fantastic shockmount that is compatible with the AT2020; see our Cutaway Shockmount. Benefits of this mount as compared to typical shockmounts:

• The mic fastens to the mount via metal threading, rather than a spring or friction clamp. This provides a significantly more secure attachment, which means the mic is very unlikely to drop out of the mount.
• The suspension uses silicone rubber O-rings rather than elastic cords. Elastic cords resonate like bass guitar strings, which can color your tracks. The O-rings in our mount do not resonate.
• The front of the mount's cage is open, facilitating close placement to sources.