Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The Audio-Technica AT2035 is a large-diaphragm, side-address cardioid condenser microphone designed for critical home, project and professional studio applications and live performance. Its element and output stage are designed for smooth, natural sound with low noise, while high SPL handling and a wide dynamic range give it versatility beyond quiet vocal recording. A switchable high-pass filter and a switchable pad are built in, and the microphone is supplied with a custom shock mount and a protective pouch, ready for stand mounting in a studio or on stage.

Key features

• Large-diaphragm condenser for smooth, natural sound and low noise
• Cardioid polar pattern for isolation of the desired source
• Frequency response of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Maximum input level of 148 dB SPL, rising to 158 dB with the pad
• Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad
• Wide 136 dB dynamic range with 82 dB signal-to-noise ratio
• Custom AT8458 shock mount and protective pouch included

Sound, noise and dynamic range

The AT2035 uses a fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser element. Open circuit sensitivity is -33 dB, or 22.4 mV, referred to 1 V at 1 Pa. Self-noise is low at 12 dB SPL, and the signal-to-noise ratio is rated at 82 dB at 1 kHz at 1 Pa, supporting detailed recording of quiet vocals, acoustic instruments and spoken word. The dynamic range is 136 dB at 1 kHz at maximum SPL, so the microphone can move from delicate passages to powerful performances without constant gain restructuring. Its 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz response covers the full audible range for voice and instruments.

High-pass filter and pad

Two switches on the microphone adapt it to the source and the room. The high-pass filter provides low-frequency roll-off at 80 Hz with a 12 dB per octave slope, reducing rumble, room boom and low-frequency noise picked up through the stand. The 10 dB pad increases headroom for very loud sources: maximum input sound level is 148 dB SPL at 1 kHz at 1 percent total harmonic distortion, and 158 dB SPL with the pad engaged. That capability suits guitar cabinets, drums, brass and other high-output sources alongside standard vocal and acoustic work.

Connectivity and powering

Output is an integral 3-pin XLRM-type connector for a balanced connection to an audio interface, mixer or microphone preamp. Output impedance is 120 ohms. The microphone requires phantom power of 11 to 52 V DC, with typical current consumption of 3.8 mA, supplied by the connected equipment. The cardioid pattern reduces pickup from the sides and rear, improving isolation of the intended source and reducing room reflections and feedback risk in live use.

In the box and applications

The microphone body is 170 mm long with a maximum diameter of 52 mm and weighs 403 g. Included accessories are the AT8458 shock mount for 5/8-inch-27 threaded stands, a 5/8-inch-27 to 3/8-inch-16 threaded adapter, and a soft protective pouch. Applications include studio vocals, voiceover and podcasting, acoustic guitar and other instruments, drum overheads, amplified instruments and live performance where a condenser with high headroom is appropriate.

For recordists who need a low-noise large-diaphragm condenser that can also handle loud sources, the Audio-Technica AT2035 combines a smooth natural response, effective filter and pad switching, and a proper shock mount in one complete package.