Out of all of the mics I've used and own, the Rode K2 is the mic in my cabinet that I'd go to first for the tone you've described. Breathy, mid-range, Beth Gibbons circa Dummy -- this mic has the color to get that done.

Get the Beta 58 first and see how that works for you before you get another mic. Most of the U2 albums are recorded with a beta58 on lead vocals. Bjorks last album was mostly recording with an SM58 on the lead vocals, Madonna did an entire album with an SM57 on lead vox.

Whats your budget?

Mmm.... Beth Gibbons on Dummy....

Sorry, nothing to add really, though I am interested to see what's suggested for that type of vocal.

thanks so much, i will start with the beta :)

You need to be a bit careful when considering the Beta58A. If your voice has any upper-end harshness, the Beta58A will tend to emphasise it, in which case, you may be better off with a standard SM58.

Since this is a one-vocalist mic we can throw suggestions out, but it's sort of like shoes. You have to try them on to see if they fit.

If you are asking about trying out large diaphragm condensers, budget is key. I like my Rode K2, and I think I'd try it first on the type of vocals you describe. I also have a pair of AKG C414s - great for a lot of sources. There are a ton of great mics in this $700-$1000 price range.

Ronan's suggestion of a dynamic is a good one. How many all-night DJs have used low breathy voices into an EV RE20? If you are starting out see if you can try out the Shure SM57 and SM58 and the beta versions of each. Try them with and without a cheap foam pop filter. (This makes a 57 closter to a 58.) These are all dead solid foundation pieces for any mic locker. Again, they are all similar. It's the best fit for your voice that counts.