Shure KSM44 $1300 list, $699 list. The best mic I own in this price range for contemporary vocals (including my U87ai and TLM103).

Steve

Soundelux U195. Excellent all around microphone. Cardiod only though.

Tim T

If you want a Mint KSM44, I am selling one of mine for $480. Send a PM.

Again, At4050 or At4040. They are monsters. We call them the mid guy Neumans here in Brazil.

I often use AKG 414 VTLII, and it sounds great with vocals, I recommend you also AT 4050

If you look around, you should be able to find a Neumann U87Ai for less than 2K... Kurt

Theres a fellow selling an older AKG 'THE TUBE' on ebay...the bidding started at $950...these are a very fine mic...

I've been using the Rode NTK (about $500) on male vox and getting very good results. I usually use the Rode with a ƒƒ ISA 110 (one of my favorite pres). The 737 sounds a little off with the Rode (mabey too tubey for vox, I'm sure other have gotten good results). I use a U87ai with the 737 sometimes. The 737 is not my main vox pre. I would suggest the U87ai overall in your range especially on female. I personally do not like the AKG 414 on vox but there are alot of people who like them and there are a bunch of different models.
my .03 cents

My current favorite is the Neuman TLM103. It's sounds pretty cool for rock vocals. Of course there is always the u87/