Kurt wrote this article awhile back on the b1, c3 and c4 SP mics:
(Dead Link Removed)

Why not go with the c3 or hell even the b1...

For tom mics, you might look into some Electro Voice 308, 408, 468's. The current model is an n/d468. These things are great on toms, always my first choice. I haven't used the Sennheiser e604's, so I can't compare, but I do prefer the E/V's over the MD421's.

I use the Audio Technica Pro 35 X mic on toms most of the time. I've had them for years and they still work great. They are good on piano and horns too. The nice thing is you don't need stands ... set ups are a LOT easier.

Here's a blurb I found online at [[url=http://[/URL]="www.jacksmusicstore…"] Jacks Music Store[/]="www.jacksmusicstore…"] Jacks Music Store[/]

Ideal for woodwinds, brass, strings, piano, snare and toms
-Handles high-intensity sound without distortion
-Perfect for active stage performances
-UniMount® clip permits accurate positioning while protecting element
-5.9' (1.8 m) cable permanently attached to mic, screw terminals at power module

$198.00 / $122.98

the d112 is great for kick and bass cabs- sometimes you can find them new on ebay for $150. (I got one for that price) The rode k2 is becoming my fav vocal mic- about $560 on ebay (I also got one for that price)

Kurt, I found the Pro 35X's at Musicians Friend for $79.99. I'm looking for a second set of tom mics (I have D2's) because I want to leave a set on my kit at home and have the other set for live work. I've heard them before and they do sound great. At that price it would be a great deal but I thought I read somewhere you saying these mics are really hot and have to be padded down. Is this the same mic or am I thinking of something else?

I agree--I like the Pro-35x mics a lot for toms, but I've also used one on my snare for a few years now (initially due to necessity, but now because I really dig the sound); it takes some eq'ing, but it often gives my snare a less tom-like than does a 57.

Are you sure it's the Pro-35x for $80? That sounds awfully cheap.

Here's the link.

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/g=live/search/detail/base_pid/270433/

Kurt or Patrick, could you let us know if this is the same mic your speaking of.

Thanks :D

what do you guys think is better?
the audio technica pro 35x or the audix d2?

That's the mic, Big D. Wow. I've never seen it priced that low before.