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Hey guys, I was wondering:

For acoustic music

What would the difference sound like between using an SM57 and a Behringer Xenyx 502 - http://www.shop.music4you.co.il/catalog/images/502big.jpg

Compared to using a firepod and some decent condenser microphones?

My friend has the latter, and I am planning on using it. But what kind of difference in sound / quality should I expect?

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Boswell Mon, 06/11/2007 - 02:22

Acoustic music, yes, but are you talking live performance (PA) or studio recording? Is this for vocals or guitar (or both), or some other sound sources?

You can get away with a lot more in a PA situation than in a studio, since there are many more variables than just mics and mixer. However, I would not be considering the Xenyx range or anything else from the same manufacturer for studio use. In contrast, SM57s are used both on stage and in the studio day in, day out.

EricIndecisive Mon, 06/11/2007 - 09:13

Well, I don't have money for a full out studio or anything, I've been recording my music for about a year using the 2 pieces that I stated before. It is mainly just bedroom / dormroom recordings. My friend has the new stuff though and I'll be trying out. I was just wondering what types of differences to expect using a condenser.

Warmer vocals?
Clearer sound?

schizojames Mon, 06/11/2007 - 09:40

I honestly think you would be better off going into the situation without any previous opinions to cloud your judgement. In fact, I know it. Try it out, listen to the differences, and A/B the results after recording some different things. Then you can tell us what you have observed. And don't forget that larger differences can often be achieved through mic positioning, gain staging, and performance.