Rode Podmic vs AT2020 are two great microphones available under a hundred bucks. Both mics are popularly used for streaming, doing podcasts, content creation, and studio recording. That said, Rode Podmic and AT2020 are two different kinds of mics that offer different advantages. So, which one is better for you?
Below, you will find everything that you need to know about:
- The design and build quality of Rode Podmic and AT2020
- What accessories come included with these mics
- The connectivity requirements of Rode Podmic vs AT2020
- Whether Rode Podmic and AT2020 are easy to set up or not
- The sound quality comparison between Rode Podmic and AT2020
- Whether you should get Rode Podmic or AT2020
Rode Podmic vs AT2020: Design
First things first, Rode Podmic is a dynamic microphone. So, you may expect it to have typical characteristics of a dynamic mic, such as high resistance against environmental noise and decent durability. This mic in particular is really well-built. The entire body is made from metal and feels really robust. It has a cardioid polar pattern. Read also: Rode Podmic vs Procaster.
Rode Podmic looks really professional with the all-metal construction. The chrome finish further adds the touch that gets you in the mood to get the job done. The only minor drawback is the bracket under the XLR connector, which does not allow free movement. Although this will somewhat limit the mic’s positioning, this is just a small inconvenience rather than a real problem.
On the other hand, AT2020 is a condenser microphone. Some people believe that condenser mics are more fragile than dynamic mics, but this is not necessarily true. It all comes down to the build quality of the product. AT2020 is quite solid and robust, with a black metallic grille and a tough XLR connector.
AT2020 also has a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up the most sound from the front side. Also, due to being a condenser mic, it requires some special audio equipment in order to work. In terms of aesthetics, this model looks relatively plain and simple just like a typical microphone.
| Rode Podmic | Rode AT2020 | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
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| Product Dimensions | 9 x 6 x 4 inches | 9.6 x 9.6 x 2.6 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 2.07 pounds | 1.32 pounds |
| Shop now at Amazon | click here | click here |
Rode Podmic vs AT2020: Accessories
One advantage that Rode Podmic offers is the fact that it comes with an XLR cable. As a result, it is practically ready to work right out of the box. Which is really nice for a high-quality mic at this price point. However, depending on your existing equipment, you may need to get an adapter in order to connect the XLR cable to your computer.
You probably also want to get a mic stand and something to keep the mic safe in storage when not in use. Unfortunately, Rode Podmic doesn’t come with these things. You need to buy a mic stand separately; streamers and podcasters may want to get a desktop stand, whereas studio users will want to get a full-size stand for the best resistance against shock and vibration.
Meanwhile, AT2020 uses an XLR connection but does not come with the cable. You need to get the cable separately, along with an audio interface that can provide phantom power for the mic and also connect to your computer. Beginners may find this as a lot of extra cost, but experienced users probably already have the necessary equipment.
At least, AT2020 comes with a stand adapter and a small leather pouch for storage. Again, you need to get the mic stand separately. But the leather pouch is quite nice. It can protect the mic against minor bumps and scratches when on the road.
Rode Podmic vs AT2020: Setup
When it comes to set up, both Rode Podmic and AT2020 use XLR cables. But, as mentioned in the beginning, Rode Podmic is dynamic and AT2020 is condenser. They have slightly different requirements.
As a dynamic microphone, Rode Podmic does not need phantom power to work. So, it is slightly more versatile and easier to set up. There are a few options to connect the mic to your computer. You can get an XLR-to-USB adapter or an XLR-to-3.5mm adapter to make it send input directly. Alternatively, you can get an audio interface like a Focusrite Scarlett or Behringer UM2.
This makes Rode Podmic an easy and simple solution for a wide range of users. Streamers, podcasters, and content creators that don’t have dedicated audio equipment will be happy to just use an adapter instead of spending more money for an audio interface.
The condenser microphone AT2020 is not as versatile. It requires 48V phantom power that is supplied via the XLR cable. Hence, simply using an adapter to connect it to your computer won’t work. This mic requires an audio interface, a mixing board, or an audio recorder that can provide that power.
Unless you already have (or you are planning to buy) such audio equipment, the extra cost and extra work for setup may seem impractical. AT2020 is better suited for musicians who have some knowledge about how to setup their equipment for the best recording quality.
Rode Podmic vs AT2020: Performance
Rode Podmic is an excellent dynamic microphone. It is significantly less sensitive than AT2020. As the effect, it is quite resistant to environmental noise. This is really great for people who don’t work in an acoustically isolated room. If you are working from home and you live near a busy street, you will be very happy to find that Rode Podmic doesn’t pick up most of that noise.
The sound quality is also great. Rode Podmic is crisp, clear, and accurate. It has an internal pop filter that does an excellent job in minimizing plosives. The mic focuses on human voice frequencies, so it is particularly great for recording vocals, talks, and speeches.
AT2020 is also an excellent microphone in its own way. It is much more sensitive due to being a condenser mic. It is best for usage in an acoustically isolated room where there is no unwanted noise. Alternatively, for dealing with minor background noise issues, careful management on gain, gating, and compression can do the trick.
When used properly, AT2020 can deliver impressive professional-quality sound. It has a slight warmth that makes vocals and musical instruments sound really nice. It captures fine details brilliantly. The raw sound quality is arguably better than Rode Podmic because of this. However, if your primary use is streaming and making online content, you won’t notice the difference as the sound will be compressed anyway in the final output.
Rode Podmic vs AT2020
Conclusion
Generally, the dynamic Rode Podmic is better and more recommended. It is more versatile and easier to use. It comes with an XLR cable right out of the box, and it doesn’t need phantom power, so all you need is an adapter to get it to work. Rode Podmic is also great because it resists environmental noise quite well while providing crisp, accurate sound. On the other hand, the condenser AT2020 is better for musicians with dedicated audio equipment.