Audio Technica AT2035 Microphone Review – Don’t Buy Until…

Introduction 

I think a condenser mic is best described as the stereotypical microphone that we imagine when we think about artists recording. 

It has that classic look and it’s an important piece of kit for providing the right quality production needed. 

I’ve used a few of these myself and that’s why I know that they can be quite expensive. You might be looking for one that is more affordable.

If that’s the case the Audio-Technica AT2035 could be a suitable fit. 

About Audio Technica AT2035

The AT2035 mic was released alongside the AT2050. I think it’s important to note that both of these microphones were inspired by the AT2020. All three are designed to be a budget-friendly choice which you can pick up for under $150. 

As such I think it could be a smart choice for your first LDC. While there are cheaper options on the market, this one provides a balance of both affordability and features. 

Compared to both the 2020 and the 2050 you will gain the benefits of a flatter response and lower noise. 

Pros 

• The classy design provides a professional appearance
• Good value for money
• High-quality construction designed to be durable 
• Variety of different features 

Cons 

• The overpowering bass response may impact certain vocalists
• Low level of versatility which limits the suitability
• Requires +48V phantom power 
• Doesn’t provide the audio experience of more expensive options 

Features & Benefits 

Vocal Performance 

Your results here are going to differ depending on who is actually singing. If for instance, a male vocalist used this mic and they have a dynamic performance, I think the bass will suit quite well. 

You also have the option of a low cut and you can use this to compensate where the needs of a particular vocalist become apparent. So, I think a lot of people are going to find this is a useful feature. 

There’s definitely warm bass reproduction here and I believe this is going to help fill out the sound. 

I believe you’ll find that that mids sound great and you also get smooth highs. 

Design 

If you are thinking about the style I don’t think this mic is going to disappoint because it has controls that are understated. The matte black finish further adds to the final aesthetic. 

It’s a durable design too and this means that I don’t think you need to worry about dropping it. 

It has a well-designed shock mount which means that you won’t have any issues here. Basically, I think this means that you can avoid noise traveling up the mic. This is usually going to happen with a sensitive mic if you just rely on a clip. 

With a shock mount, the mic is suspended by elastic bands and I think this is great because it means that low-frequency noises aren’t going to be a problem. 

The mic also has a cardioid polar pattern. This isn’t for looks but I think it’s important because it means that you can reduce unwanted sounds from both the rear and the sides. 

Specs 

With this LDC or large-diaphragm condenser mic, you will benefit from a frequency response that is between 20Hz and 20kHZ. This is great and it does mean that you get a response that is quite flat. 

Although, you might notice a presence peak which may become apparent at about 12 kHz

This LDC can also get about 148db. However, if you engage the pad then this adds on another 10db which offers a little more versatility. 

It also means that the mic can handle loud signals, even without the pad. As such, you won’t have to worry about distortion issues at this level. 

Since we mentioned versatility I do think that you’ll find this handles most sources without any trouble. 

With this option, you are getting a mic that is quite sensitive and one that provides a lower level of self-noise. 

Instruments 

A key benefit of this LDC is that it can be used on various different instruments. It has a flat broad response and I think this means you’ll find it matches perfectly with both pianos as well as acoustic options. 

You could also use this as an option for a drum overhead while the high sound pressure level means that it is also suitable for an electric guitar as well as brass instruments. This does mean that depending on the instruments you’re working with, you can pair with the AT2035 to fill out the sound at different frequencies. 

Features

There are two main features that you can access when you choose this particular mic. The first is a high pass filter. That means that you can reduce the low frequencies when you’re working at 80 Hz. 

There’s also the option that we have already mentioned before, which will allow you to reduce the signal by 10 decibels that is coming from the microphone. 

I think that feature is great because it means that you are going to be able to tame louder signals even after you have made some adjustments in a recording session. 

What Do Others Think?

When you’re selecting an LDC it’s important to make the right choice because otherwise, you won’t be able to get the sound quality and final recording that you need. 

The Audio Technica AD2035 is available at a lower price than other options on the market. However, it still marks a sizeable investment, particularly when you are just getting started. 

I have explored different options on the web from trusted resources to get some reviews of real users. 

I think you’ll be pleased to find that the feedback is overwhelmingly positive for this mic. 

As you can see, many reviewers are amazed by the quality that this mic provides for what is a budget price. They also note several stand out features including the shock mount. 

Alternatives To Consider

Rode NT1

With the Rode NT1, you are provided with a higher level of performance and more features than the AT2035. However, it costs more. 

The mic has a low self-noise, so it’s a great option for digital recording. You also get clean and clear voice recording with this choice. 

Your studio sessions will be a breeze with this choice! It features a large gold diaphragm and comes with several accessories, including a shock mount and pop filter.

Key features

• Internal capsule shock mounting 
• Dust cover and pop filter
• Extended dynamic range
• High SPL capacity

If you’re willing to pay a little more I definitely suggest you check this option out for yourself. 

AKG Perception 2020

In terms of features and quality, this mic is quite similar to the AT2035. However, you do get a little more for your money including a carry case. The switchable base cut ensures that you can reduce issues and there’s a high SPL too. 

Key Features

• Multi-function condenser microphone
• Provides warm and clear sound 
• Spider-type shock mount 
• Aluminium carry case

Consider this option if you want a little more features and support for your money. 

Rode NT-USB 

As the name suggests one of the key benefits of this choice is that it does provide USB connectivity. It’s particularly useful if you’re going to be relying on an iPad or similar tech. 

The product also provides a tripod desk stand and ring mount. It has a similar design to the AT2030 

Key Features

• Supports both Windows and Mac
• 6m USB cable
• 3.5mm stereo headphone jack 

If you want a hi-tech LDC, make sure that you consider this option. 

Conclusion 

There are many options when choosing the right LDC. The AT2030 aims to make this choice easier by providing a budget-friendly option that still provides a high level of quality. 

It succeeds here with a flat low-end response as well as lower noise levels. There are some great design choices too which mean you get more control over your audio. It marks a definite improvement over the AT2020 with more technical features added. 

You can select this mic yourself by clicking on this link. 

What Should You Consider Before Buying A Condenser Mic

When you’re selecting a studio condenser mic, there’s a lot of choices on the market. It’s particularly important that you make the right decision for your home studio because this is the mic you’re going to rely on as your go-to option. 

Here are some of the most important features and variables that you need to keep in mind when making this choice. 

Pick Up Patterns

It’s important to be aware that some condenser mics will have selectable pickup patterns. That can be useful because you’ll be able to control the sound field where you are picking up the sound.

It will help for particular environments. 

Proximity Effect Sensitivity

If you’re using a mic for professional support, then this is an important factor. It’s particularly useful for artists who may not stay fixed in front of the mic. With the right proximity effect, you can gain the same high-quality result, regardless of how far they are from the mic. 

Power Supply

Many high-end mics will come with their own power supply. If they don’t, they will need a particular level of phantom power. It’s an important consideration if you want a mobile mic. 

A required power supply can make moving the mic around far more difficult.