I haven't heard the CAd but I own the K2 and use it consistently-

I've used both of these mics somewhat extensively (allthough, mainly the Rode). While both of these mics are decent, there are maybe another 50 in the price range that you should consider. Perhaps even 100 in a lower price range and of course several in a higher price range. Even though I like the Rode a lot, I couldn't recommend to anyone - "Buy this mic!" Not because it's not a good mic, but it is not the best mic for everything.

First, don't worry about upgrading the pre's. Again, not that you have great pres, but you're not going to get much better without spending a lot more. Take the money you would have spent on upgrading the pres and travel around to listen to these mics live.

If there's one thing I've learned over time, it's that reviews suck - they never tell you what you need to know and it is all based on what the reviewer hears. Don't fall into the hype of reviews. Listen for yourself and see what you like. Who knows, you may wind up saving a chunk of change.

--Jeremy

I just got a K2.. still putting it through it's paces - but so far, I'm very happy with it.

I've only tried it on my own vocals so far - through a Vintech X73i - and it's very present and clear, with no harshness that I've found in other 'budget' mics. My voice is kind of midrangey, and can often stick out like a sore thumb from a mix without a lot of work... my first quick test with the K2 and the Vintech - and it just sat nicely right in. Present, up front, but not 'icepick in the forehead'.

As I use it more - I'll update my findings.
"-)

try the K2 half way in between omni and cardioid for male vocals... nice!

Maintiger -
I remember you mentioning that before... that was one of the first things I tried - and you're absolutely right.. it's a great setting.
Just seems to let it 'breathe' a little more.
"-)

I've Rode K2 in my collection also. I think it is a very good Mic. Smooth, Up front, can capture high frquency very good, not suit for saxophone (in my opinion) for CAD Mic .....I don't know much
recommend to try it before you buy expensive Mic. : )

The Cad is a warmer sounding Mic in my opinion, I own a K2 and have used the M9 and so far I am not that impressed with the Rode. It has a funny 6k quirk that makes it sound a touch harsh.
But try before you buy, and do so in your own studio... Good Luck.

Look into the SP T#3

Thomas -
what mic pre are you using with the K2?
"-)

I reviewed the CAD M9 .. you can see it in the Reviews section here at RO ..

I was very impressed with the sound quality of the M9 ... for the price, I think it's hard to beat .. It is built very well has a sturdy shock mount (unlike most offering in this price range) and comes with all the accesories and a storage case.

I used it on a variety of sources and found it to be flexible .. as a single mic in front of a drum set, I was amazed at the fullness of the whole kit ..

I don't see how anyone could go wrong with the CAD M9.

well i own both mics.. overall the K2 has been getting used more. vocals cut through the mix eay with the K2. i don't have to use eq to get the vox to cut through the mic. the m9 i have to use a little.
i like both mic. the m9 is on sale around for $299.. it can't be beat at that price

I've been using my K3 a lot for vocals lately- I agree with C9 on the fact that the sound cuts through the vocals and you don't need much eq... Lately is been K2s for most vocal aps except for when I want a mellow sound- nobody beats my RCA D77 for that! Of course if my friend Larry hadn't flaked out on me I'd still be using his two U87's from the 60's- those had a sound that it is hard to beat... the K2 comes darn close, though-

isnt the k2 a mutli directional mic and the k2 is just carioid? check out the SP T3 as well but the m9 is about half the price of the k2.

the K2 is multipattern - continuously variable, controlled from the external power supply.

street price on a T3 is about 500 bucks... I just paid 560 for my K2.. for an extra 60 bucks it's definitely a step up from the SP, I think.
"-)

i dont know how mutch a step up it is as i consider them bolth in the same catagorey and have herd equaly good things about bolth mics. my point was the M9 is cardiod only and thus half the price so my purchace would be do you need figure eight and omni? if not get the M9 and save the dough for your UA.

though the m9 is only cardiod its still a good mic to have in a studio.
after i switched the cheap ass sovtek tube that was in it to a mullard cv4004 i think it was.. the sound of the m9 came alive.
it was a good sound mic but the sound was like.. using a behringer pre vs a great river, api, manley.. the sound changed that much
right now a lot of ppl have the m9 on sale for 299.
when i got my m9 i paid about 375 for it.

im not blasting the m9 im just pointing out the difrances