Audio-Technica PRO35 Instrument Condenser Microphone

Audio-Technica PRO35 Clip-On Condenser Microphone for Live Instruments

The Audio-Technica PRO35 is a cardioid condenser clip-on microphone created specifically for saxophones, toms, brass, and percussion in high-SPL live environments. Subtle instrumental nuances are faithfully rendered, thanks to a permanently polarized condenser element, while the included UniMount clip shields the capsule from mechanical vibration. Live sound engineers and touring musicians seeking a discreet, instrument-mounted microphone for clean, focused capture on loud stages will find this instrument indispensable.

What Sets the PRO35 Apart

Built on a fixed-charge back plate, this model delivers the detailed transient response close-miked instruments require. The AT8418 UniMount clip allows for precise placement on a bell, drum rim, or horn and doubles as a shock mount, safeguarding the element from handling noise and stage rumble. Even at 145 dB SPL, the capsule remains distortion-free.

Polar Pattern and SPL Handling — Isolation Where It Counts

Isolation is paramount on energetic stages. The cardioid polar pattern focuses on the source and reduces pickup from the sides and rear, keeping unwanted spill from cymbals and monitors out of your mix.

• Polar Pattern: Cardioid — rejects off-axis bleed from cymbals, monitors, and other instruments on a loud stage
• Maximum Input Sound Level: 145 dB SPL at 1 kHz, 1% THD — manages close-miked brass and snare hits without distortion
• With an open circuit sensitivity of -45 dB (5.6 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa, performers can rely on a strong output level that suits a small-diaphragm condenser perfectly.

Frequency Response and Signal Quality — Capturing Every Nuance

The extended frequency response enables the capsule to articulate the harmonic detail of brass, the snap of a drum head, and the breathy texture of a saxophone. A switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter removes unwanted low-end rumble.

• Frequency Response: 50 Hz - 15 kHz — captures subtle performance nuances across the instrument's range
• Low Frequency Roll-Off: 80 Hz, 18 dB/octave — switchable high-pass filter cleans up stage rumble and proximity effect
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 64 dB at 1 kHz, 1 Pa — quiet self-noise floor for a clip-on condenser

Build, Cable, and Connectivity — Touring-Ready Hardware

The 1.8 m cable is permanently attached and routes to the included AT8538 in-line power module, ending in a standard 3-pin XLRM output. This microphone weighs only 8 g and is just 25 mm long with a 10.2 mm diameter. In addition to the AT8418 UniMount clip and AT8538 power module, a soft pouch ensures safe transport.

• Cable: 1.8 m permanently attached — 2-conductor shielded cable with TA3F connector to the power module
• At just 8 g, the microphone is light enough for mounting on brass or drums without affecting balance.

Who the PRO35 Is For

This model is ideal for live sound engineers, touring musicians, and worship or theater audio teams who need a low-profile, instrument-mounted condenser for high-SPL sources. Use it on saxophone, trumpet, trombone, toms, snare, and percussion—anywhere a clip-on outperforms a stand-mounted dynamic. Front-of-house engineers gain cardioid isolation, while players benefit from a capsule that stays out of the way. Studio engineers also utilize it for drum overheads or amplified acoustics.