Audio Technica AT3035 Condenser Microphone
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.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Nice addition to your home recording studio
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.
5 Stars Quality versatile condenser mic
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!
5 Stars Big bang for little bucks
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.
5 Stars Extremely nice mic for the money.
This is a very nice mic at any price, but the ease of ordering through Amazon and the low price make it a way above average purchase.
If you already have Shure SM57s and SM58s this could well be your next best mic purchase.
The mic is very smooth and transparent with nothing harsh in the highs or overdone anywhere in the spectrum. Highly recommended.
5 Stars Quality Condenser for a Good Price
I purchased this microphone for my home studio and I am quite pleased. It sounds great. I would highly recommend it for musicians on a budget.
