Audio Technica is a Japanese manufacturer that has been in business since 1962. This company is now well-known for producing high-quality audio devices at a reasonable price. Their items are ideal for aspiring and amateur musicians who want to avoid compromising quality while also looking for the most incredible bargains. In many respects, Audio Technica provides you with the best of both worlds.
Audio-Technica has a long history of being a reliable source for both consumer and professional audio equipment. A-product T’s selection is as wide as high-quality, ranging from turntables and cartridges to headphones and microphones. The 20 series is a great place to start if you seek to add some mics to your project studio.
This article will look at the audio Technica AT2020 and audio Technica AT2035, two high-quality microphones from this business. The entire AT20 series of microphones are popular, but the two versions we’ll talk about today are trendy.
Quick Comparison table
| AT2020 | AT2035 | |
| Phantom power | required | required |
| Polar pattern | cardioid | cardioid |
| Frequency range | 20 hertz to 20 kilohertz | 20 hertz to 20 kilohertz |
| Dynamic range | 124 decibels | 136 decibels |
| Impedance | 100 ohms | 120 ohms |
| Signal to noise ratio | 74 decibels | 82 decibels |
| Filter controls | HPF | |
| pad | Lacks pad | Has a pad |
| Shock mount include | lacks | present |
| price | $99.00 | $147.99 |
| Sensitivity | -37bdecibels | -33 decibels |
Comparison of the audio technica AT2020 and AT2035
1. Similarities
These are both condenser microphones, which means they require phantom power to operate. You get a far superior high-frequency response in exchange.
The standard for phantom power is 48 volts. That could be coming from your mixing console’s preamps or your audio interface (click here for our recommended list of budget audio interfaces). Some small portable preamps, such as a portable recorder or a camera’s battery-powered preamp, may, by design, only be able to deliver a lower voltage.
Both mics have cardioid polar patterns, which means they focus on what’s in front of them while canceling out noise from the sides and back.
Both have a frequency range of 20Hertz to 20KHertz, which is the human hearing range.
Both are large-diaphragm microphones, which means they have a lower noise floor and are less sensitive to high frequencies.
They have a similar build as well. The mics are made of high-quality metal and feature a metal grille to protect the capsule/diaphragm within from injury.
2. Differences
Even though both mics are incredibly similar on the surface, they sound very different at the end, which is the essential aspect.
Audio Technica AT2020
Audio Technica AT2020 has a microphone sensitivity of -37 decibels. The ratio of sound pressure hitting the diaphragm to the output voltage traveling to your mixer or interface is called sensitivity. The higher this value is, the more sensitive it is; consider that these are negative figures, therefore -37decibels is less sensitive than -30decibels.
This microphone has a 124decibels dynamic range, which is the maximum volume that this microphone can tolerate before distorting. It has a 74decibels signal-to-noise ratio. The amount of noise it makes when the microphone is turned off: the greater the number, the more influential the signal.
It has a 100-ohm impedance. That is the microphone’s resistance. Explained, the lower this number is, the longer you can extend your cable without losing the signal.
The Audio-Technica AT2020 offers traditional Audio-Technica sound quality at an unbeatable price! With just one microphone, capture the subtleties and nuances of vocalists and acoustic guitars, then take on roaring guitar amplifier cabinets.
Audio Technica AT2035
The AT2035′s phantom power ranges from 11 to 52 volts, allowing you to use battery-powered preamplifiers for more portability.
It has a sensitivity of -33dB, which means it sends a hotter signal to your mixer or interface. It also means you’ll have to use less strength on your sign, which will reduce the amount of noise amplified.
It has a 136dB dynamic range; thus, it can withstand louder noises than the AT2020.
It boasts an 82dB signal-to-noise ratio, which means it has a reduced noise floor. As a result, it will sound just as good as it does closer to the source.
It has a 120-ohm impedance. Although this is higher than the AT2020, it is by a small margin and will not affect your sound.
A -10dB pad and an HPF are also included in the AT2035 (High Pass Filter). If your interface is getting too hot, the -10dB pad will reduce the output signal level. At 80Hz, the HPF has a slight roll-off.
A shock-mount is also included with this microphone. A cradle can assist it from vibrations transmitted through the microphone stand, such as footsteps or a slight acoustic guitar knock.
Advantages of AT 2020
The AT2020 from Audio-Technica has a powerful and clean sound.
Surprisingly, dark sources operate better than bright sources.
Extremely adaptable, with the ability to handle a wide range of studio applications.
It’s best for musicians just starting in their careers, as well as those who work out of a tiny home studio.
Gives a one-dimensional reaction. The advantage of a flat response is that it can easily blend with EQ.
The cable is a good length.
Disadvantages of AT2020
The storage bag is made of thin material.
There is no additional padding included.
These mics don’t have a shock mount.
There are no headphone jacks; therefore, you can only record in cardioid mode.
Advantages of AT2035
It’s pretty adaptable and may be used in a variety of applications and circumstances.
It has a neutral and balanced tone, which makes it ideal for recording.
The overall structure is built of metal, which provides a stable foundation. It also has a long shelf life.
The build quality is excellent, which ensures that these microphones will last a long time.
These mics are capable of handling high vocals without any distortion or peaking.
Low-cut filters and 10dB pad switches provide a lot of versatility.
Disadvantages of AT2035
Switches are a little difficult to turn on and off, and it takes a while for them to loosen up.
It comes with a pop filter that isn’t the best. However, it will work for novices.
The sound, especially words with “sh” sounds, can be sibilant or too harsh at times.
You might be interested to read our another comprehensive article of: Audio Technica anc9 vs. Bose Qc25- Compare Them Completely
Conclusion
THANKS TO THE FLAT BASS RESPONSE the AT2035 it’s perfect for ASMR and spoken word with an ‘up close and personal sense. Because of the shock mount, I don’t have to worry about rumble from outside forces; thus, this merely completes the setup. I didn’t mind paying $50 for these extra features, but others might not.
Whatever option you choose, keep in mind its present and future applications. It’s pointless to buy something now that won’t meet your needs in a year or two. Both microphones are capable of picking up guitars, cabinets, acoustic instruments, and vocals.