I have been using a pair of Sennheiser HD212 Pro as a companion for my computer ever since I gave up my feeble attempts at making music. Having proper studio monitor headphones when making music is key to knowing what the heck you are doing. The HD212 Pro has served me extremely well for the last ten years, and properly used for that amount of time they have a special warmth to the sound. I have cherished them, and never thought that I would need another pair of studio monitor headphones. When the ATH-M35 entered my world I still saw the HD212 Pro as unparalleled in quality. After gently taking the Audio-Technicas through the paces they grew into real monsters.
I am not used to taking it slow or easy, and I felt somewhat impatient as the days of muted audio continued. Now I can cream some massive Exodus, Slayer or even Lady Gaga without the headphones buckling. The audio is clear with a nice dispersion making different instruments easy to distinguish. For audio production this is essential, and I can easily change for example a piano loop without it turning into a mess. As with all of these high end sound dispersion headphone simple music becomes boring.
Noise isolation is quite good with the large padded ear cups. Zero sound escapes them making them ideal for studio work, or if you want to have your music loud at the office. They are highly portable due to light weight, and easy collapsible design. However I can’t recommend using them as your everyday headphones, or workout solution. This is due to the quite rigid 3.4 meter cable. It is hard to store it properly when out and about, and I don’t want to trip over it doing lunches at the gym. The ATH-M35 should only be used with a fixed source such as a mixer table, computer, television or with an instrument in the studio.
The design of the headphones is all business, and no extra frills. The sound alongside with the robust sturdy design is more important than flair. They still look quite cool with large headband and ear cups. Just like my old companion the Sennheiser HD212 Pro these are made to last, and to gain even more warmth and detail the more you use them.
The cord extends from the left ear cup, and ends 3.4 meter further away in a gold plated stereo connector. This can be enlarged by screwing on a ¼” adapter. I like the strain relief spring above the connector that can save some wear and tear on the sockets you use. The headphones ship with a protective pouch helping avoiding scratches, and minor bumps.
I am blown away at the quality of sound delivered by the ATH-M35. The 40 mm neodymium drivers are powerful, and I have yet to find any source material straining them the least. If you are looking for great quality studio monitors at an affordable price definitely consider adding the ATH-M35 to your studio. It works well together with a computer or television, but you never get to harness the power within. I can’t recommend them for your iPhone or iPad due to the long cord. Trying these out I actually start to consider making yet more feeble attempts at creating music…woe to the world.
Final Rating
