Have a look at the Blue Microphone Kiwi. It's my new favorite all-around studio condenser mic.

Multi-pattern and a crystal clear sound.

Chris

Amature question

I'll have to read up on that one. I heard good things about the Neumann TLM-103 too. Any info on that? I was reading about it and some people said it works best with about a 20db "low pass filter" and a "pad" I hate to sound like the amature that i am, but could someone explain what they are? could i get some external ones to run between my mic and pre? Thanks for any help!

Check out the Lawson line with tube power supply. There's a series with interchangeable capsules, so you can build a nice collection for less $$$ in the long run. Initial cost around $2k.