AT2020 vs AT2035: Which Audio-Technica Microphone Is Right for You?

It is part of our behavioral habits as humans to weigh our options and purchases in terms of quality and price. We want to obtain the most value from our purchase, and we need to do so at a reasonable economic cost. As always, these decisions can be challenging, especially when the options all seem similar. In this article we are comparing two devices in the audio industry; the AT2020 and AT2035 microphones. Which would you pick of these premium recording devices?

Let’s look at the options on the market and decide which microphone provides the best functionality at an affordable price.

About: Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica is a Japanese company that was first established in 1962. It’s a brand known for offering high quality microphones at reasonable prices; the company offers a variety of different premium audio products for the musician and audio enthusiast alike.

Comparing the AT2020 and AT2035

Features

The AT2020 cardioid condenser microphone from Audio-Technica is the company’s first release into the world of microphones. As a result, I feel it can be described as “basic” when compared to the more advanced models of the series, like the AT2035 and the AT2050.

The AT2020 and the AT2035 are designed for recording vocals, instrumental recording projects, and professional studio environments, which make it a multi-purpose tool with versatile applications and media production capabilities.

Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Studio XLR Microphone

Price

Because the AT2020 requires an external interface during use, it can end up being more expensive. If you already have an interface, then the AT2020 is a good option. If you don’t have an interface, it would be better to purchase an AT2035. The cost of an interface with the AT2020 amounts to just over $150, while the AT2035 costs $149 as a single unit.

Switchable 80Hz high-pass pass filter

The AT2035 has one particular advantage which is the switchable 80Hz high-pass filter and 10dB pad, which gives you the ability to reduce low-end frequencies. This is particularly useful when you are recording vocals or other melodious pieces.

Many users claim that manually reducing these frequencies is an easy task with other software. We say, more power to them, but the ease of use provided by the convenient AT2035 interface is hard to match.

Audio-Technica AT2035 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Durability

The AT2020 includes a low-mass design in addition to its sleek black finish. This device is a solid build that brings longevity and durability to the recording studio; a side-address diaphragm with a cardioid polar pattern for rejecting ambiance and obtrusive frequencies gives the artist precise control over sound projects.

One of the advantages of the polar pattern is that the mic isolates unwanted sounds in the background environment. The AT2035 has similar, more advanced features. An additional spec of the AT2035 is the reinforced storage and carrying case, which is equipped with additional padding and a shock-absorbing mechanism. In addition, it has a pop filter that eliminates pop-up sounds, and prevents the corrosive effect of the saliva that collects during recording.

Frequency range

The AT2020 has a linear frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, which enables the diaphragm to accurately reproduce signals from a wide variety of sources. High SPL handling and wide dynamic range allow the AT2020 to capture loud signals with minimal noise and distortion.

Positioning accuracy

The microphone includes a pivoting, threaded stand mount for accurate positioning, which also allows the mic to be placed on any typical music stand. In terms of power requirements, there is quite a difference between the AT2035 and the AT2020. Audio Technica AT2020 requires 48V DC at 2mA typical, while AT2035 requires 11-52V at 3.8 mA typical. This is due to the advanced features present on the AT2035.

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Conclusion

Clearly, the AT2020 and the AT2035 share many common features, although the AT2035 is equipped with better storage, more switch controls and versatility, and other unique settings.

On a final note, the AT2020 is less expensive, and can give you close to equal value in product performance. While the AT2035 is a great product with many premium features for the professional sound aspirant, the AT2020 is our choice as providing the best value at an affordable price.