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So, I've been posting a lot here, and I apologize if I'm hogging the board, but I'm really enjoying being able to bounce ideas off of other engineers/musicians/producers.

I'm in the market for a pair of drum overheads.
I like using 414's, or other large diaphram condensers for overheads, although I have use 451's with success.
My problem is my budget is only about 600bucks. I know I'm not going to get a pair of 414's for 600bucks.
I've seen a lot of inexpensive mics, from Apex to Rhode to Audio-technica , etc, but have not really used many of the cheaper brands.
Can anybody here recommend their favorite affordable overhead mics? Large diaphram or pencil.

Thanks!

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JoeH Sun, 12/02/2007 - 08:25

The 4033 was originally released before the 4040. It was stopped being made for a while, but it's back, re-released. I have just one and love it; I often use it for lower strings like cello and basses. I also have a pair of 4040's, which are just as nice a mic, but a little different - a little tighter and clear, while the 4033's seem to be a little rounder & warmer. You can read all the specs and suggested applications for the entire line of mic's on AT's website.

I often use the 4040's (or even the 4050's)for drum overheads, but it's going to cost you more than $600 for a pair of them, unless you find them used or a really good deal from someone on Craig's list or something.

Consider the AT 3035's instead. Usually they sell for a bit under $300 each, and they're a great bang for the buck. Honestly, they're NOT that much different than the 4000 series. For drum overheads - at least to get you started - you may not notice that much difference anyway, and you'll make it under your $600 cap. I have a pair of these as well, and they come out when the others are already tied up doing other things. THey've never let me down, either.