I have a collection of entry level to mid level mics in my locker (Shures,
Rodes, CADs, etc), including a two year old AT3035. One thing I have always
noticed about this particular mic is that among my various brands of XLR
cable, only the Neutrik brand plugs make a reliable connection. It seems as
if the pins at the base of the microphone are actually thinner than any
other mic I have. As a result I can feel less mechanical resistance when
inserting a female XLR into the base of this mic than any of my other
microphones.

What are the chances that the XLR pins in this mic are actually out of
specification?

Bill Ruys.