Audio Technica AT3035 Condenser Microphone

by Audio-Technica

Product Features

• Large diaphragm (26 mm) for exceptional detail and low noise
• High max SPL, wide dynamic range and optimized output level provide unmatched versatility
• Low self-noise (12 dB SPL) perfectly suited for today's most sophisticated digital recording equipment
• Extended low-frequency response for rich, full sound, Custom shock mount provides superior isolation

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 9.5 x 2.8 inches ; 1.8 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 2.3 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B0002D06AE
• Item model number: AUD AT3035
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #33,577 in Musical Instruments (See Top 100 in Musical Instruments)
• Discontinued by manufacturer: Yes

Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

Designed for critical home/project/professional studio applications and live performance, this 30 Series large-diaphragm side-address cardioid condenser delivers exceptional detail and low noise. With its extended low-frequency response, the AT3035 produces rich, full sound reproduction and handles extremely high sound pressure levels with ease. Tailored for a smooth, natural sound, this mic is a perfect complement for digital recording equipment. Along with its rugged construction and high-performance specifications, the AT3035 provides an exceptional level of consistency from model to model.

Exceptional detail and low noise. Click to enlarge.

Shock mount included.

View polar pattern and frequency response. Click to enlarge.

AT3035 Features

• Custom-engineered large diaphragm for exceptional detail and low noise
• Cardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound source
• High max SPL, wide dynamic range and optimized output level provide unmatched versatility
• Low self-noise (12 dB SPL)--perfectly suited for today's most sophisticated digital recording equipment
• Extended low-frequency response for rich, full sound
• State-of-the-art surface-mount electronics ensure compliance with A-T's stringent consistency and reliability standards
• Custom shock mount provides superior isolation
• Lo-cut switch (80 Hz, 12 dB/octave) and 10 dB pad

AT3035 Specifications

• Element: Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
• Low Frequency Roll-Off: 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave
• Open Circuit Sensitivity: -32 dB (25.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
• Impedance: 250 ohms
• Maximum Input Sound Level: 148 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.; 158 dB SPL, with 10 dB pad (nominal)
• Noise: 12 dB SPL
• Dynamic Range (Typical): 136 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
• Phantom Power Requirements: 11-52V DC, 3 mA typical
• Switches: Flat, roll-off; 10 dB pad (nominal)
• Weight: 13.8 oz (390 g)
• Dimensions: 6.69 inches (170.0 mm) long, 2.05-inch (52.0 mm) maximum body diameter
• Output Connector: Integral 3-pin XLRM-type

One-Year Warranty
Get extra peace of mind with Audio-Technica's one-year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
AT3035 microphone, AT8458 shock mount for 5/8"-27 threaded stands, Soft protective pouch

Product Description

The AT3035 large diaphram Cardioid Condenser Microphone delivers exceptional detail and low noise. Wide dynamic range and optimized output level provide unmatched versatility. The Low self-noise (12dB SPL) is perfectly suited for the most sophisticated digital recording equipment. Extended low-frequency response for rich, full sound. Custom shock mount provides superior isolation. Lo-cut switch (80 Hz, 12 dB/octave) and 10 dB pad.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

31 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Nice addition to your home recording studio, November 1, 2004

By 

Tezza "Tezza" (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Audio Technica AT3035 Condenser Microphone (Electronics)

I bought the AT3035 because I wanted to add a condensor microphone to my recording options without spending a lot of money. The AT3035 fit the bill.

The microphone is fairly sturdy. The body seems to be better made than one would think for the price point.

The one problem I had was the cheesy plastic recessed switch that low cut switch. I would say set it and don't change it ever again for fear of breaking the switch.

The included shock mount works very well. I had no problem with the microphone slipping or falling, however I would not mount the microphone overhead upside down, unless I figured out some special type of rigging.

The AT3035 excelled at vocals. Vocals sound very natural, with no little hint of lisping or whispyness. Obviously it takes a little time to get used to using a condensor, as they are far more sensitive than a standard shotgun microphone.

Cardiods tend to reject less outside noise, so if someone is playing the TV downstairs or a car goes by outdoors, it will show up in your recording! However, I was still able to get great vocals down in a fairly open second floor room in my home recording studio.

The microphone does well on recording acoustic guitar as well.

I found the level of the microphone matched my Echo Mona microphone inputs well. Very easy to get a good balanced levels. I never noticed any excessive noise with this microphone.

Keep in mind you need an XLR input with 48 volt power to drive the microphone, which almost all sound boards have.

All in all, a cardiod microphone needs some getting used to in order to get the most out of it. It took me a while to build up the confidence and find the vocal nuances that can be achieved with this excellent microphone.

However, for the price point, you won't be disappointed with the recorded result and accoustic flexibility of the AT3035.

Recommended for home recording enthusiasts on a budget. This microphone sounds much better than the low price might lead you to believe.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Quality versatile condenser mic, March 16, 2008

By 

Nessander - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Audio Technica AT3035 Condenser Microphone (Electronics)

I got this mic about a year ago and have been using it with a Presonus Firebox and Logic 7 to record vocals, acoustic guitar, and mic'ing electric guitar played through a Vox AC15 tube amp. Thus far I am happy with this mic. In terms of sound, it is good for vocals, giving a really nice sound with very low noise. After I have tweaked the EQ in Logic to give a boost to the mid-range frequencies, and put a bit of reverb on them, the vocals come out sounding very nice.

I've used poor quality mic's for recording for a long time, always thinking that an expensive mic would be out of my budget, since I just do casual home recording. But a friend of mine told me that nowadays there are mic's in the 200 dollar range that can come close to those that are 1000 dollars or more. I'm not sure about that since I haven't done the comparisons myself, but I can say that this is far and beyond better than anything I have ever used before. Not just the sound quality, but the look and build of the mic are very solid and professional. I like the fact that it comes with a suspension holder and a nice bag to hold and protect the mic.

If this is slightly above your budget level, I would suggest checking out Shure SM 57 as a great all-purpose dynamic mic.

EDIT: One year later, after building up my studio more and comparing this mic with a few others in its price range, and slightly cheaper, I would say that this mic is a bit brighter and harsher on vocals than some other options. I'm now preferring an Apex 205 ribbon mic or a Shure SM57 or 58 for vocals (both available for $80-90). They are both warmer than this mic for vocals, and more pleasing for my voice, at least! I'm now looking for alternative condenser mic's to replace this one with. However, for two years, it did serve me well!

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Big bang for little bucks, November 27, 2009

By 

Allen H. Ward (Centennial CO) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Audio Technica AT3035 Condenser Microphone (Electronics)

Okay, it's my first condenser mike, so I'm a bit enthusiastic. The contrast between this and even a great dynamic mic (I have a Hiel PR40) is the difference between running an electric guitar thru a solid state vs. a good tube amp.
I bought this thing thru Amazon upon the recommendation of my V/O coach Nancy Wolfson ([...]). Just before I purchased it, a quick search revealed that noone carries the AT3035 anymore. Maybe Amazon's got a final stash, I don't know, but at $130.00, you just can't beat it. It is warm, responsive, and I would have to pony up a whole lot more bucks to get a noticeable improvement. Instead, I can devote those dollars to a better computer, better software, and always more sound-proofing. Any V/O booth builder will tell you not to skimp on your mike budget--so true! But this little jem is a joy to work with, and didn't kill my wallet.