Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1. Both are very useful anywhere, whether in a home studio , in a recording studio or in a record company . This is not surprising given the audio quality that these two condenser microphones provide to ensure impeccable sound recording .
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1. Like the famous Se electronics audio and voice recorder, the two condenser microphones are designed by reputable brands , have good durability and are also versatile (one in relation to the other).
So how can you successfully choose the most efficient studio microphone of the two? That's what we're going to see right after this line.
Duel at the polar pattern
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1. It's first worth mentioning that the Audio-Technica AT2035 , like the Rode NT1, features a cardioid polar pattern . The directivity, also called (technically) “ polar diagram ”, is used to designate the sensitivity of the microphone in relation to various sound sources.
Without wanting to go into (too) technical details, let us just note that all kinds of microphones that you can find on the market have a polar pattern which can be:
- Cardioid
- Super-cardioid
- Hyper-cardioid
- Omnidirectional
- Directional
- Bidirectional
As a result, these types of microphones react differently depending on the distance and angle of location of their respective sound source. This will depend on the directivity of the microphone whether it is directional, omnidirectional, unidirectional or bidirectional. As for the Rode NT1 and the AT2035, we are dealing here with two microphones with cardioid directivity .
In other words, these microphones are sensitive to sounds coming from the front, but they are less sensitive to picking up sounds coming from the back. Microphone sensitivity is reduced for sounds coming from the sides.
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which of these two microphones performs better in professional sound recording studios ? Honestly, we can say that the two mics are a tie on this point. Indeed, these two microphones are designed for studio recording as they perfectly isolate background noise and ambient room sound.
Please note, however, that to optimize your sound recording and vocal recording in the studio , you will need to carry out adequate acoustic treatment of the room in which you will make your recordings. This is for the simple reason that room or studio acoustics play an important role and determine the quality of your audio recording.
You must therefore think about it before buying a studio microphone , because in the same way that you are going to insulate any room from noise, you must plan to purchase adequate insulating panels. And this, before even acquiring your complete studio equipment . You will only benefit in the long term.
Duel in terms of robustness
All condenser microphones , regardless of their type, incorporate extremely sensitive internal components robust external protection . Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which of the two microphones is better protected?
Once again, the Audio-Technica AT2035, like the Rode NT1, benefits from good shock protection . The Rode NT1 benefits from a design that is both strong and lightweight in 6061 aluminum, while the Audio-Technica AT2035 has a metal structure . With a weight of 440 g, the Rode NT1 is a little heavier than the AT2035, but this is not surprising.
Indeed, the transducer that the Rode integrates features patented “ Rycote Lyre Origin ” technology to limit external vibrations and eliminate handling noise . Equipped with a built-in mic and voice coil, the Rode NT1 offers a significantly quiet self-noise level of 4.5 Dpa compared to 12 Dpa for the AT2035.
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which microphone is less sensitive to vibration noise?
Without the slightest hesitation, and with a self-noise level of 4.5 decibels , we can say that the Rode NT1 scores a point.
Which microphone offers the best sound quality?
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1. To find out which of these two microphones provides the best audio quality , we will test them in turn. To do this, let's start with the Rode NT1.
In terms of sound, this studio microphone provides a fairly flat response curve between 20 Hz and 20 kHz . This may seem quite standard to you, but think again, because such a frequency range makes it possible to faithfully reproduce (almost) all types of sound sources.
The response curve being flatter covers the magnetic field and captures sound waves at different frequency levels . This provides a dynamic, optimized and smoother bandwidth description for each audio recording or sound capture that you will make.
The two manufacturers have understood this well. This is probably why the Rode NT1, like the Audio-Technica AT2035, displays the same response curve from 20 Hz to 20 kHz .
Unlike a high-end singing microphone like the Neumann TLM 102 , the Rode NT1 does not display any particular sound coloration. Regardless, it remains quite effective at reproducing high-fidelity stereo sound in the studio.
Some condenser microphones like the AKG C414 XLII or C414 XLS will even go so far as to accentuate certain frequencies and broaden the sound spectrum . This is to give a effect or audio rendering . Which is not the case with the Rode NT1.
Once again, we are not going to dwell on too technical details given that optimizing sound quality is both a question of taste and technicality.
In the case that concerns us, we chose to focus on the sound of a flat curved microphone, the rendering of which (even more or less raw) could be processed and refined using a mixing desk.
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which microphone gives the best sound reproduction?
Thanks to its ingenious and cutting-edge design, the Rode NT1 allows you to obtain an audio rendering that is rich , dynamic , rounded and (almost) vintage . We really appreciated this lovely vintage sound imprint when we tested it on various acoustic instruments such as: acoustic guitar, piano, violin, cello and flute.
The microphone provides a sufficiently rich and deep , a perfectly balanced and pronounced midrange, as well as a clear and refined tone in the high frequencies. Its self-noise level is so minimal that all surrounding background noise (almost) disappears to produce surprisingly clear sound.
Very versatile in nature, the Rode NT1 has nothing to envy of other types of microphone such as the Blue yeti pro studio microphone or the Snowball when it comes to voice recording.
Moreover, the Rode NT1 is as effective as the Rode NT USB version and other types of high-performance microphones equipped with USB audio ports in terms of voice recording for:
- Recording voice-overs and dialogue.
- Voice recording in the studio for singing.
- Voice recording for podcasting purposes.
- Radio and television broadcasting.
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which microphone can handle sound pressure best?
Now let's test the Audio-Technica AT2035 microphone! Note that the Audio-Technica AT2035, like the new AT2050 version from Audio-Technica, is as efficient as the Rode NT1 in voice recording, whether for singing, dialogue or speech.
Let us simply note that the Audio-Technica AT2035 provides a more notable performance for sound recording of musical instruments , whether acoustic or electric. We would even go so far as to say that the Audio-Technica AT 2035 is more suitable for sound recording of bass guitars and percussion instruments than a Rode NT1 type condenser microphone.
This can be explained by the fact that the Audio-Technica AT2035 is capable of withstanding a sound pressure in SPL of 148 decibels unlike a classic Rode NT1 microphone which cannot withstand a sound pressure greater than 132 dB in SPL . In this aspect, the Audio-Technica AT 2035 is ahead of the Rode NT1, and therefore scores a point.
We appreciated the lovely crackle of the cymbals, the punchy sound of the bass drums and the encouraging roll of drums that the AT 2035 allowed us to audition in the studio . Likewise, the Audio-Technica AT 2035 sounds better on an acoustic piano, cello and double bass than the Rode NT1 due to its greater ability to withstand sound pressure compared to Rode's new NT5 version, a microphone with perfect capacitor.
In the same way as dynamic microphones, the AT 2035 from Audio-Technica effectively allows audio capture of various powerful sound sources . And the same goes for a directional microphone and an omnidirectional microphone. This applies to both low and high frequencies as well as midrange.
Although the AT 2035 cannot compete with the Rode NT1 for its own noise level at 12 dB compared to only 4.5 dB for the Rode NT1, this microphone for recording voice remains efficient. Its flat response curve from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and its greater capacity to withstand acoustic pressure compared to the Rode, give the AT 2035 an undeniable sound pickup .
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which microphone best allows you to play on the proximity effect?
Like a good dynamic microphone , the Audio-Technica AT 2035 allows you to play with the proximity effect than the Rode NT1. With the AT 2035, you can easily obtain a sound frequency presence of around 14 kHz when you fully exploit its potential. This gain is especially noticeable at the mid and high frequencies without manifesting any grain, parasitic noise, saturation or sound interference.
Duel over features and functions
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: Which of the two microphones is switchable?
Here, the Audio-Technica AT2035 comes back in force with the provision of additional features that the Rode NT1 does not have.
The Audio-Technica AT2035 being switchable takes precedence over the Rode NT1, as the AT2035 has both a high and low pass . This means that the sounds captured by this mic all peak, whether they are low frequency , mid frequency or high frequency .
Unlike the Rode NT1 (which is not switchable), the Audio-Technica AT2035 offers two switches. One is like an 80 Hz high pass filter and the other is like a 10 dB pad switch for attenuation of loud sound sources like guitar amps and drums.
These switches systematically allow you to reduce the microphone volume when recording a loud source such as: the voice of an opera singer, the sound of a violin, an acoustic or electric guitar, that of a double bass or with a trumpet. The goal is to avoid clipping and allow an audio mix that is both balanced and homogeneous .
In addition, you can also consult our complete test guide for the Shure Beta 58A . An omnidirectional dynamic microphone with super-cardioid polar pattern. Discover in this guide the detailed overview, the sound quality produced by the Beta 58A, as well as the technical characteristics and our opinion on the microphone.
Which of the two microphones is better equipped?
The pop filter and the shock protection are two essential accessories for all types of microphones and more particularly for an electrostatic microphone or a condenser microphone of any type. The manufacturer Rode understands this well by having been able to equip its Rode NT1 microphone with these two essential accessories. This is not the case with the AT 2035 from Audio-Technica.
However, it should be noted that when making various recordings, whether in the studio or outdoors, it is essential that the condenser microphones used are equipped with these accessories. For a condenser microphone, the use of a pop filter is essential, even in a studio room whose walls are covered with sound insulation.
This is due to the extreme sensitivity of the condenser microphone. As a result, and in the absence of an anti-pop filter, the microphone can generate sound saturation that is unpleasant to the ear . Hissing sounds (like “s” sounds) and percussive tones (like “p” and “b” sounds) are most likely to saturate the microphone input of a Rode NT1 or Audio-type transducer. Technica AT2035.
Even in the case of a dynamic microphone dedicated to outdoor use like the Shure SM7B, it should always be equipped with an anti-blow windscreen. The provision of shockproof protection also remains essential to minimize vibrations and handling noise .
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which of the two microphones is better equipped?
The Rode NT1 pro mic comes with both a pop filter (which is completely removable) and shock protection, unlike the Audio-Technica AT2035. Aside from that, the rode NT1 also comes with an XLR cable unlike the Audio-Technica AT2035 condenser microphone.
You will probably ask what this type of cable could be used for for these two microphones. To better answer this, and without wanting to go into technical details (once again), let's simply remember that the connectivity of a microphone determines the quality of audio recording or broadcasting.
Mid-range and higher-range microphones, for the most part, have an XLR type connector unlike a simple and better micro-USB . The difference between a USB microphone and a plugged-in XLR type microphone lies in its connection.
A cardioid microphone with USB audio port and equipped with a real-time configurable audio interface You just need to plug it into a PC or Mac to make it work without even having to use a specific installation driver.
Equipped with a Plug and Play , this type of microphone is therefore directly ready for use once placed on a tripod or attached to an articulated arm. It does not require the use of a specific phantom power supply or a dedicated external power supply.
Most (if not almost all) condenser microphones require the use of phantom power, and which must be continually supplied with an electric current of a certain voltage (48 Volts to be exact) in order to be able to start.
An Audio-Technica AT2035 or Rode NT1 condenser microphone also includes a diode to let you know if it is on or off. These two microphones are also to be distinguished from a wireless lavalier microphone or a simple lavalier microphone for monitor, which is more practical to use outdoors or on stage than in a recording studio.
Likewise, the LED lighting of an Audio-Technica AT2035 or Rode NT1 type microphone is used to signal the presence of a possible electrical voltage overload. However, it should be noted that in addition to being delivered with an anti-pop filter and shockproof protection, the Rode NT1 has the advantage of being equipped with an XLR cable .
This is to allow you to limit your expenses. It is also for these three good reasons that the Rode NT1 scores three decisive points against (apparently) none for the Audio-Technica AT2035 in terms of packaging .
Which microphone costs the least?
good quality recording equipment on a more or less limited budget. This is why we have chosen to integrate the quality/price ratio as a factor which will condition your choice to decide on the subject: Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1.
On the question of which of these two condenser mics is more affordable, we can say without the slightest hesitation that the Audio-Technica AT2035 supplants the Rode NT1. In fact, the Audio-Technica AT2035 costs around €95 less than the Rode NT1. In terms of quality/price ratio, we can declare the Audio-Technica AT2035 the winner.
Note : By the way, also discover our comparison guide between the AKG C414 XLII microphone and the Neumann TLM 102 . Two microphones that are part of the high-end microphones. So, find out which of these two microphones should be preferred to optimize vocal and instrumental recording in a home studio.
Which microphone has the best warranty?
On this point, there is nothing to say: the Rode NT1 takes precedence over the Audio-Technica AT2035. Note in fact that the Rode brand always backs its microphones with a good and long warranty . In the case of the Rode NT1 this can last from 5 to 10 years depending on the authorized reseller you turn to when purchasing this condenser microphone.
Our verdict on the two microphones!
Audio-Technica AT2035 Vs Rode NT1: which is the winning microphone?
At first glance, you probably noticed that it was a fairly close duel between two microphones that were equally efficient and versatile . Therefore, if you plan to acquire a high-performance condenser microphone at the best price, we recommend that you purchase an Audio-Technica AT2035 type microphone.
The microphone provides a fairly flat frequency response to enable high-fidelity and from a variety of sound sources . The same microphone is equipped with high and low pass filters. This effectively limits the risks of saturation and audio clipping during recording, whether at low frequencies or at high frequencies.
Note also that the Audio-Technica AT2035 is more capable of withstanding heavy acoustic pressures compared to the Rode NT1 with 148dB SPL for one, compared to only 132 dB SPL for the other. Also note that the Audio-Technica AT2035 weighs slightly less than the Rode NT1 with a weight of 403 g compared to 440 g .
, Technica AT2035 is not supplied with any
It should also be mentioned that the Rode NT1 displays a much better level of self-noise which is limited to 4.5 dB compared to 12 dB for the Audio-Technica AT2035. Add to this the care that the Rode brand has taken by having equipped its microphone with an anti-pop filter and good anti-Shock protection .
Let's also not forget that this major manufacturer always backs its condenser microphones with a good and long warranty equivalent to approximately 5 to 10 years . Taking into account everything that has been said, we can declare the Rode NT1 the winner of this duel.