Audio Technica AT2035 XLR Condenser Mic Review / Test
Today I am reviewing the industry standard condenser microphone, the Audio Technica AT2035. I need to note that this an XLR condenser microphone which means it requires phantom power to work properly. Therefore, if you are looking at this microphone, make sure that your audio interface / mixer provides phantom power.
If you are interested in this microphone, it will set you back $150 on Amazon
What's In the Box
Microphone
Shock Mount
5/8" to 3/8" Mic Stand Adapter
Carrying Pouch
Documentation
1-Year Warranty
Performance / Features
The construction on the microphone, just like the other AT20 series mics, is excellent. It has an all metal construction; a metal body, a metal windscreen, and some substantial weight to it. On the back of the microphone there are two switches to help get the best sound out of this microphone. The first switch is a -10db which will make your signal quieter in case you are micing any loud sound sources (guitar amp, drums, etc.) There is also a switch with a bass roll off around 80Hz to help with overly boomy sounds or other pesky low frequency noises.
The frequency response on this microphone is 20Hz - 20kHz. When testing it on the voice I thought it provided a very full and clear tone. The acoustic guitar also sounded full with a nice amount of high end to help liven up the sound. Lastly, the electric guitar was excellent and provided a very accurate representation of the guitar amps sound.
We also see a cardioid polar pattern when we look at the specs sheet. When we tested it out by spinning the microphone around, we picked up the majority of sound directly in front of the mic. When we got around to the back of the microphone we lose the majority of the sound. When I was typing on a keyboard behind the microphone you could still hear the keyboard but it was very quiet.
Pros
Great construction
Very nice frequency response
Excellent tone on all tests
Good at eliminating background noise
Comes with shock mount
Offers -10db Pad
Has bass roll off switch
Cons
Couldn't think of any
Conclusion
Honestly, this is just a great mic! If you get this, I am almost certain that it will be a workhorse in your studio. It has an excellent build quality, excellent sound, and it seems to perform well in every situation I put it in. If you're a podcaster, this is a great mic because it is directional and provides great tone on your voice. If you're a gamer, the polar pattern seems narrow enough to eliminate the majority of background noise while focusing on your voice. If you're an audio engineer; it just sounds good.
If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them in the comments on this site or on the youtube channel, and I will try to reply ASAP.
Buy the AT2035 (Affiliate Link)
Global: https://geni.us/at2035