AudioTechnica AT2020USB-X is a solid step up for USB streaming microphones – without a hefty step up in price – 24-bit/96 kHz Sampling Rate and USB-C operation. AT2020USB-X is aimed at pleasing content creators, musicians, streamers, gamers and remote work / home office for teaching and meetings. So, what are the features we’re most impressed with? Number 1: the sound. Make no mistake, AT2020USB-X is a quality mic. Like all condenser microphones, get closer to it for a nicely balanced sound (more voice, less ‘room’ sound). The mic’s advanced analogue-to-digital converter supports multiple sampling rates, with resolution up to 24-bit/96 kHz for extremely clear, natural sound reproduction. Number 2: ease of use. The first thing we noticed was how quickly you can pull AT2020USB-X out of the box, and start working. It is truly plug-and-pay. There’s a headphone jack with volume control, allowing you to monitor audio directly from the microphone – while the ‘mix control’ gives you a simple way to blend your microphone signal with computer audio. A desk stand is included, providing a stable base to securely set up the microphone on any flat surface – but you can use an existing boom arm or adjustable desk stand, if you’ve grown to like what you’ve already got. And the really nice feature – with a simple touch of the capacitive mute button (noiseless), you immediately silence the microphone. The mic’s LED ring changes from blue to red indicating that the audio is muted. AT2020USB-X has definitely got our tick of approval.