Audio-Technica PRO35 Cardioid Condenser Clip-on Instrument Microphone
Best clip-on microphone for live brass and percussion performers.
The Audio-Technica PRO 35 is a versatile clip-on condenser microphone designed for instruments like sax, toms, brass, and percussion. It excels in demanding, high-SPL stage environments, capturing subtle performance nuances with its extended frequency response. The included UniMount clip ensures precise, shock-resistant positioning, while the cardioid polar pattern isolates the sound source, reducing unwanted pickup. This microphone is ideal for active stage performances, delivering clean and accurate audio capture for a variety of instruments.
$159.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
704
/ 1978
#704 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
-69%
Below average
Element
Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
/ Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
Who it's for
- Studio musicians seeking professional-grade acoustic detail
- Live performers needing precise, non-invasive instrument placement
- Stage artists playing in loud, feedback-prone environments
Who should skip it
- Acoustic players lacking phantom power-equipped mixers
- Woodwind or brass players sensitive to mechanical key noise
- Touring professionals requiring field-repairable gear
Performance breakdown
High-SPL Handling
Handles loud brass and percussion without distortion during intense live sets.
Isolation Performance
Cardioid pattern effectively rejects stage bleed from nearby instruments and monitors.
Mounting Versatility
The UniMount system provides secure, flexible positioning on various instrument bells.
Transient Response
Captures the sharp attack of drums and sax with impressive clarity.
Durability
Rugged build quality withstands the rigors of frequent touring and setup.
Frequency Accuracy
Balanced response delivers natural tone with a helpful low-end roll-off.
Key Specs
Element
Fixed-charge back plate, permanently polarized condenser
Maximum Input Sound Level
145 dB SPL at 1 kHz, 1% T.H.D.
Frequency Response
50-15,000 Hz
Open Circuit Sensitivity
-45 dB (5.6 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
Phantom Power Requirements
11-52V DC, 2 mA typical
Dimensions (Microphone)
25.0 x 10.2 mm
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
64 dB
Low Frequency Roll Off
80 Hz, 18 dB/octave
Features
- Ideal for sax, toms, brass, and percussion
- Excels in high-SPL stage applications
- Cardioid pattern improves sound isolation
- UniMount clip for accurate positioning
- Captures subtle nuances with extended response
- Shock-resistant design protects the element
- Permanently attached 6' cable
- Requires phantom power
What customers say
Musicians and engineers highly regard the Audio-Technica PRO35 for its exceptional sonic clarity and natural sound reproduction, making it ideal for close-miking brass and percussion. Its tight cardioid pattern effectively isolates sources and rejects feedback, proving invaluable in loud live settings. Users consistently praise the reliable mechanical design, noting the secure clip and flexible gooseneck allow for easy, precise positioning. While it requires phantom power, the professional audio performance delivered offers superb value. This microphone is widely considered a top choice for achieving professional results without the cost of more expensive touring equipment, consistently exceeding expectations for its price point.
Know before you buy
Yes, this is a condenser microphone that requires phantom power (11-52V DC) to operate. You will need to connect it to a mixer, preamp, or audio interface that provides phantom power via the XLR connection.
Absolutely. The PRO35 is specifically engineered for high-SPL (Sound Pressure Level) environments, handling up to 145 dB without distortion. This makes it an excellent choice for saxophones, trumpets, and percussion.
The UniMount clip allows you to attach the microphone directly to your instrument, ensuring the mic stays in the optimal position regardless of how much you move on stage. It also features a shock-resistant design to minimize mechanical noise and vibrations.
The PRO35 uses a cardioid polar pattern, which is designed to focus on the sound source directly in front of the capsule while rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This helps isolate your instrument and reduces unwanted bleed from other stage noise.
No, the 6-foot cable is permanently attached to the microphone. This design choice helps ensure a reliable, uninterrupted signal path during active stage use.
Yes, the microphone includes a low-frequency roll-off at 80 Hz with an 18 dB/octave slope. This helps clean up your sound by reducing unwanted low-end rumble or handling noise.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.