Audio-Technica AT2035 vs HyperX SoloCast
A side-by-side look at Audio-Technica AT2035 and HyperX SoloCast for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Audio-Technica AT2035
A step up from the AT2020 with a pad, filter, and extra headroom
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HyperX SoloCast
A no-nonsense cardioid USB mic that delivers more than its price suggests
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Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Audio-Technica AT2035 | HyperX SoloCast | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Podcasters stepping up from the AT2020 who want more control and headroom in one package | Budget-conscious podcasters and streamers who want tap-to-mute and USB-C without paying for pattern flexibility they will never use |
Key features
Audio-Technica AT2035
- Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Cardioid condenser XLR, requires 48V phantom power
- Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter for rumble reduction
- Switchable -10 dB pad for high-SPL sources
- Custom shockmount included
- Self-noise 12 dB SPL
HyperX SoloCast
- Single cardioid condenser capsule
- Tap-to-mute with LED indicator
- Up to 24-bit / 96kHz (via firmware update)
- USB-C connectivity (USB-C to USB-A cable included)
- Flexible adjustable stand with tilt control
Pros and cons
Audio-Technica AT2035
Pros
- Built-in pad and high-pass filter add real-world flexibility
- Lower self-noise than AT2020 at 12 dB SPL
- Shockmount included - saves accessory cost
- Handles louder sources and varying room conditions better
Cons
- Requires a treated room - condenser sensitivity picks up ambient noise
- Requires 48V phantom power
- Sound character is similar to AT2020 - not a dramatic upgrade
HyperX SoloCast
Pros
- Excellent value - strong cardioid sound at a budget price
- USB-C connection is modern and reliable
- Tap-to-mute is instant and responsive
- Compact and easy to position
Cons
- Cardioid-only - no omni or bidirectional for multi-person setups
- 24-bit/96kHz requires firmware update and software install
- No headphone monitoring jack
The verdict
Choose Audio-Technica AT2035 if
Podcasters stepping up from the AT2020 who want more control and headroom in one package.
The AT2035 is the AT2020 with the two features the AT2020 most needs - a high-pass filter and a pad. Those additions meaningfully expand the mic's utility for recorded music, interviews with varying source levels, and rooms where low-frequency rumble…
Choose HyperX SoloCast if
Budget-conscious podcasters and streamers who want tap-to-mute and USB-C without paying for pattern flexibility they will never use.
The SoloCast consistently over-delivers for its price. Cardioid-only is the right call for solo recording, and the tap-to-mute implementation is among the best at any price point - it is silent, responsive, and clearly lit. The flexible stand is more…