Recommend a good Small Diaphragm Condenser for $100-$200

[JoshuaD]

I'm looking for something to record acoustic instruments and probably act as a drum mic occasionally. Acoustic instruments are by far the more important use for me. Guitar and Violin mostly. Thanks!

My other mics are a RODE NT1A and an SM58.

These are the two I'm looking at right now:
Buy Audio-Technica PRO 37 Small Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone | Condenser Microphones | Musician's Friend
Buy Rode Microphones M3 Multi-Powered Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphone | Condenser Microphones | Musician's Friend

I'm hesitant to go with the Rode just because my LDC is a Rode NT1A. Seems like I probably shouldn't have both my condensers be from the same manufacturer. What do you guys think?

[thatjeffguy]

I use the Rode NT3 quite a bit for this type of thing. It has a good high output and a pretty uncolored sound. I have even used it on vocals (though not my preferred mic for that). I own three of them and find them very versitile.
You can find them new for under $200 if you shop around.
I don't see anything wrong with having two mics from the same manufacturer. Rode has a good reputation for quality products.
Jeff

[JoshuaD]

A friend of mine just recommended these, and said surprisingly he loves their tone:

Buy CAD CM217 Condenser Mic - Buy One, Get One Free | Condenser Microphones | Musician's Friend

[TheJackAttack]

Rode NT55 or AKG C391 or AT4051.

[JoshuaD]

Rode NT55 or AKG C391 or AT4051.

Each of those mics are listed on sweetwater for over $300, some as high as $500. Is there somewhere where these are available for under $200?

[TheJackAttack]

You didn't give a budget of any kind in the original post. I'm also not Shure (ha) that I buy your premise that you should avoid Rode because you already have one. At your level of purchase you really really shouldn't be worried about the flavor of the mic but more about the performance quality and build quality.

Classical violin and classical guitar? Or folk/western? If the former then just Nail your wallet to the dresser with a fire extinguisher pointed at it. My original list still stands with a grudging nod to the AT4041. For non classical guitar and violin then why not get a pair of Shure SM57 or unscrew the ball on your 58? No they aren't condensers but still quite usable. Also, Audix might have something worth looking at too. I'm just not very familiar with their offerings. Also haven't heard the Beyer Op53 but the brand itself is quite reputable. Of the mic's you listed originally the M3 is the better option. Although I like AKG and AT microphones, I'm not a fan of the low end of either brand necessarily. Either are better than MXL for the most part.

[BobRogers]

Each of those mics are listed on sweetwater for over $300, some as high as $500. Is there somewhere where these are available for under $200?

If you can stand it, I'd wait until you can spend a little more money. Most inexpensive SDCs can sound pretty shrill. (They may not seem that way when you first listen to them, but after you start layering multiple tracks... ) The lowest priced one I've liked is the Rode NT5. (Have not heard the NT3.) But even there you are better off with the NT55. The pad, rolloff, and extra omni capsule are very useful. (Though admittedly, you might be fine with the NT5 for guitar and violin.)

[BobRogers]

Also, I'll second John's comment on not worrying about having too many Rode mics. Good mics for the price. I'm also with him on either using what you have or (if you need a third mic) getting an SM57 or an Audix. That is, if you are short on cash, a good dynamic is a better long term investment than a bad condenser for the same money - even if a condenser is the "right" mic for the job.

[soapfloats]

I'll throw the Cascade M39s into the mix. Cheap, yes.
Since I don't own the Rodes or the others mentioned, I can't compare.
I do use the M39s as a stereo pair for acoustic guitar all the time.
All right big boys, tell me why I'm wrong!

[Aural Reject]

The Rode NT5 / NT55 are nice mics and punch fairly well above their price point....personally I'd save the money until I could get one or two of them....which is what Bob Rogers said above, I guess.

If you're happy enough up front to go cardioid only, you could get the NT5 and add the NT45O omni head later.