Audio Technica AT2035 Studio Microphone

Feature:
The AT2035 has an effective shockmount. If you prefer to use it upside-down-style, just make sure it is pressed-in firmly. Somehow, even though the capsule is 24mm (as compared to the old AT3035's 26mm capsule), the sound is slightly "bigger" or "fuller". Just like the AT2020 model has an amazingly big sound for its 16mm capsule, the AT2035 has that characteristic even more. I suspect similar technology/structure/materials here. Obviously, some slight technical advance was made (to my ears).

Quality:
Seems solidly-made.

Value:
TOP-VALUE ITEM in its price range. I would even say...WOW. 1 of these and an ADK Vienna, and you are ready to deal with almost any vocalist, at any time.

Desirability:
IMO, it is the current Tyrannosaus of studio condenser mics under $200.

Sound:
Oops! Audio-Technica may just have made all their other mics under $350 obsolete! ===================================================================== This mic is like a slightly-juiced AT3035 (which I also own), which was already a heck of a mic for the money and very underrated. The sound of the AT2035 is B-I-G, full and crystal-clear. Used with even a cheap preamp, set at proper levels, there is no harshness in the highs to my ears, even with no EQ. This is not a "German-sound" mic with extra "sheen";It is a simpler, "true-sounding" mic with little coloration and fine presence. It makes a quality, contrasting addition to a mic collection that already includes those popular & distinctive ADK, or Studio Projects-type "German-flavor" vocal mics. Compare this to one of AT's somewhat more expensive mics, and the results may surprise you. In my opinion, AT Corp has reason to fear a shootout between this mic and the ones they put out that I won't name in the $200-350 range. But do your own test if you can, and decide.

Ease of Use:
Soft ballad singers who can sing very close-up to the mic without topping meters can sound gigantic--Like you are right in their throat! But even farther back, the mic still sounds big (hint: the closer you can sing to a studio mic without distortion, the "bigger" the voice sounds in the recording, due to proximity effect. Just use the AT2035 with a simple preamp, get the levels right (clear W/low-noise), and definitely use a pop-screen if doing vocals. This mic is best for vocals, various percussion, electric guitar cabs, and acoustic guitar close-miking. I haven't used it with wind instruments so I can't offer anything there.

Support:
N/A

Overall:
I expect lots of years of good use from this mic (for my modest demo/jam-studio), and many happy singers I have yet to meet, but will.

Feature:
Includes a -10 db switch as well a bass roll off switch. Also comes with a shock mount, and carrying pouch. Nice.

Quality:
This is a heavy, beautifully made mic. But then again all of Audio Technica's products are well made. Have not had a single problem with it.

Value:
This is where the AT2035 really shines. For the price you are going to pay for this mic, you swear it sounds like a $500 mic. Tremendous value.

Desirability:
Looks and sounds great!

Sound:
Wow! That was the first word that came to mind after listening to this mic. I am a professional voice over artist, and I have recorded at some great studios with great mics like the vaunted Nuemann U87, Senny, 416 shotgun, AKG mics, etc., and I can safely say this one is in my top 3. I was ready to pull the trigger on an AT4033CL, however after reading that this one was very comparable and sounded as good as other mics costing upwards of $500, I bought the AT2035. I did not regret my decision. I paired it with a Presonous tube amp, and was blown away. Nice, crisp highs and mids, not muddy on the lows. Just colors my voice perfectly. If you want a sampling of what I have recorded, just visit www.voxmaxaudio.net. Thanks, Joseph Andrade

Ease of Use:
Just plug it in to your pre amp and get fantastic sound.

Support:
Have not needed it yet.

Overall:
This one is a keeper! Would replace it in a heart beat!