jumo,
My current favorite is a U87Ai through a Millennia STT-1 ORIGIN, in the tube mode for the pre and the solid state mode for the eq compressor section. It's not real impressive when played back all by its self but when multiple tracks are mixed, it really stands out! Very professional and impressive sound. I am also very partial to a U87Ai through a Sebatron vmp pre. Very full and warm with an extended low end. You can hear some audio samples of these pres and some others here.
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Hey Kurt,

I've been considering the Origin STT-1 as my primary chain for female vocalists. I'm currently using a Peavey VMP-2 with either an RNC or Fatso for compression. I tried my Avalon 747 opto comp but it's much to finnicky to setup on tracking. Main problem is enough gain without distortion, and VMP is ok, but tough to find a good compressor that handles the range transparently without breaking up.

Whaddya think?

thanks kurt the arrangements will be pretty sparse and organic ,shakers ,fuzz electric and some bass so there will be alot of room for the accoustic guitar to breathe.i have a u87 which is pretty good but thought of trying the lawson u47 ,any experience with this mike on accoustic?
i have heard raving reviews and some controvery about the sebatron but if they do a two channel version i might try it.cheers.

U-47 (not fet) or Gefell UM-900, Geoff Daking preamp, RCA Ba6a.

same as Kurt except U87.
Princeton or 59 Bassman.