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I'm looking for a new mic to add to my closet. I was wondering, if you we're in my shoes, what mic would you purchase next for $2,000? My current closet holds these mics:

Soundelux iFet7
BLUE Kiwi
AKG c141 B-XLS
Shure KSM 44
Shure Beta 87A
Shure SM57 (x4)
RODE NT3 (x2)
RODE NT5 (x2)
Sennheiser MD421 (x2)
Sennheiser E604 (x3)
Sennheiser E602
AKG D2000S (x3)
Audio-Technica 3060

The choices I've thought about so far include the Royer R-122, a Neumann M-147 (a little over 2K, but what the hell), or the Earthworks Drumkit system.

I've been tracking mostly funk and soul lately (alto/tenor saxes, lots of percussion), and I'm gonig to be working on a project with a local band that is looking to get more of a vintage live sound (like Breakestra's "Hit the Floor" album). Any suggestions would be great. I think I'm good on my front end, I just need help choosing. I'm not opposed to going a little over 2000 as shown by the M147.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Comments

SYNTHME Mon, 01/30/2006 - 17:53

Cannot go wrong with the Neumann.

I also just got an Earthworks QTC-40... incredible mic for vocal, ambient, instrument, or percussion micing. Very versatile and I still can't believe how great it sounds (even if it does look like an electric toothbrush). You could grab a pair for under 2K, or I have also heard good things about the mics in the Earthworks Drumkit.

What kind of role are you anticipating for the new mic? Or, are you trying to go for something that is versatile?

MadMax Mon, 01/30/2006 - 19:08

backinthelab wrote: Yep, looking for something a little versitile, a mic that will give me something that I can't already get with what I have, ya know?

The QTC-40's would be a great choice as would maybe a Royer... for a couple bucks added, you could look at the SF12... that's my new "go to" choice mic.

The Josephson e22s or the C42MP (matched pair) might be kinda' cool.

If you can find em' the Rode NT2 is another good "bftb" mic.

Then there's the D6, Beta 52 and the D112 that are absent from your list... maybe on purpose, maybe not.

my paltry .02

Max

anonymous Tue, 01/31/2006 - 05:22

Okay, now I'm confused! It seems that a good Royer ribbon or a pair of QTC-40's are the most popular choices. Thanks for your input! Any other's that I could be missing?

Is the EV RE-20 really that studio friendly? I've seen them in radio stations but have never heard of thier use in a recording situation. Maybe just me? :shock:

anonymous Sat, 02/04/2006 - 11:49

Well, I've got to say, infriggincredible. I tracked a practice session using the QTC's as overheads, a iFet7 on the kick, and an MD421 on the bottom of the snare for an added punch. They all ran through my UA 4110 on different "shape" settings. The mix turned out beautifully given two unfortunate mishaps. The kit slid forward so the skin of the kick drum was actually touching the mic. I managed to EQ out the rattle and it was only near the end of the take. Also, the drummer managed to stick one my BRAND NEW mics, almost resulting in an ass beating. (joking, of course)

Funny stuff. Anyways, I absolutely LOVE these mics and I'm going to try them on EVERYTHING!!

anonymous Tue, 02/07/2006 - 13:14

studio projects t3

well i m using a t3 its a great copy of the u87 and its sounds great for the money
i had the chance to record cds using some of the best mic ever made< easy when you are signed> and also had the chance to compare the t3 to other more expensive mics and
i got to tell you for the money the t3 is fantastic
and no i don t work for that co
i just love
that is
of course if you are looking for a tube mic