Audio-Technica ATR-3350 is a lavalier microphone that is one of the most popular devices in its category. The reason is the fact that this model has a very attractive price-quality ratio with a bias in cheapness. That is, the user receives a high-quality product from a well-known manufacturer at a price of a little over $ 20 (market average).
What are the features of the model and what is the real ratio of the positive and negative sides of the device? I’ll try to figure it out further.
What are the main characteristics and the essence of the model
So, Audio Technica ATR 3350 is a condenser omnidirectional lavalier microphone with wires. It is characterized by mono sound and a frequency range from 50 to 18 thousand Hz. The microphone has a built-in battery and is characterized by a portable form factor, a discreet black design, a reliable clip and low weight. This is a device that looks invisible on clothes and ideally performs the assigned functions thereby. It is optimally suited for interviews, reporting and any situations where the voice needs to be recorded or amplified without attracting additional attention to technical aspects. All attention should be focused on the person who is speaking.
Audio Technica has achieved the perfect balance of meaningful and superfluous in this model, and the microphone does not have excesses (for example, limited options for adjusting the position), but it performs the main task effectively. On average in the market, a model costs $ 18-25. Interestingly, the length of the wire in the kit is as much as 20 feet / 6 meters. Optional, but nice (and sometimes really useful, as for me).
Technical aspects
Someone thinks the cable length is too long. This creates certain inconveniences in some cases but is an indispensable solution in certain active situations. So, such a microphone will be indispensable situationally, and the choice must be made according to the functional tasks that are assigned to the equipment.
Battery power is a rather inconvenient thing, given the lack of an indicator. This means that forgetting to turn on the device is easier than ever, and then the user loses charge in a responsible working situation. This is exactly what happened to me in the process of studying the device. At the same time, the sound quality of the microphone decreases as the battery runs out, and this creates certain inconveniences. I propose to classify power problems as the main problem of the device, and this is not the most serious drawback of the possible ones in relation to the price category.
Sound and everything related to it
Audio-Technica ATR-3350
I will say right away: sounding is precisely the factor that determines the optimal ratio of price and quality of a device. That is, the sound is very good, as for such a small price, and the manufacturer has peaked here. This is especially noticeable when compared with the closest competitors (and even the budget models of other well-known brands).
However, there is a certain reservation. High-quality sound is relevant only at a sufficient level of volume. The microphone sensitivity is low, and this means the need for additional amplification. The microphone sounds quietly in the standard state. The sound is even in the entire frequency range, and this determines the versatility of the device. It is worth considering the probability of concomitant noise during amplification.
As for the format of application, Audio Technica ATR 3350 is still more optimal for indoor use. The results on the street are not bad, but the need for signal amplification leads to the capture of third-party noise. This should be considered when working. If you have to work in the midst of noise, it is best to mount the microphone as close as possible to the source of the target sound. It is optimal to use the device inside the car or on the move in a large room, but for static room spaces additional sound inconvenience may occur.
Summarizing the positive and negative sides of the device
So, let’s formulate a list of pluses and minuses together to give an objective answer about the qualities of this microphone. Audio Technica ATR 3350 has a very smooth and stable sound over the entire frequency range, and this is a key plus of choosing a device for a budget price category. It is impossible to refuse the combination “cheap price tag – stable sound”. Also worth noting is the surround sound capture and the abnormally long cable, which solves many problems.
Cons are present, and the main gripe is battery power, which reduces sound quality on a low charge. At the same time, there is no power indicator, and this creates a risk of discharging the device unnoticed. Also, I attribute the low sound power to the minuses, but this is solvable.
In general, this is an imperfect budget lavalier microphone. It has tangible lists of positive and negative sides, but the small price will not allow the user to regard this purchase as a serious loss, even if the microphone does not like at all. At the same time, there is a chance to get something reliable, universal, and decent for every day with minimal financial costs.
Features and characteristics
- Frequency range 50-18000 Hz
- Cable Length 40 ft / 6 meters
- Compact design
- Battery powered
- Stable sound over the entire frequency range
- Sensitivity: -54 dB
Conclusion
Looking for a budget-friendly mic with decent sound? Audio Technica ATR 3350 offers good quality at a low price. Despite some drawbacks like battery issues and low sensitivity, it’s a reliable choice for everyday use. Its compact design and long cable make it versatile for various situations. So, if you’re on a tight budget and need a decent microphone, this one’s worth considering.