MXL 603 vs. MXL 991 for overheads

[SMX_Dizzy]

Well, I'm back with more questions. Currently there are 2 deals that I'm looking at, both for $99, that come with an overhead and another mic: the 603 + 2001 package and the 990 + 991 package. Both seem like a great value, but I was wondering which mic was better for drum overheads. The polar patter on the 991's looks a lot bigger than the 603's (on the MXL website), would that make it a better mic for overheads?

Sound samples of either would be great too. Thanks for the input.

[alecmcmahon]

id say go for 2 mxl 603's for drum overheads


and, ideally - you would want two of the same mics for overheads..

just check out ebay for a pair of 603's, they're great mics for the price

[SMX_Dizzy]

So it wouldn't be good to get two of them individually anyway? The thing I like about the package is for $75 more you're getting 2 more nice mics...but you think I should ditch the extra mics and get the stereo pair?

[peopleperson]

If you're going to be using them for overheads, yes, you should definately have a stereo pair. The 603's are pretty alright for the money. I can't think of a pencil condenser in that price range that sounds as good. Personally, I'd save some more bucks and step into a better quality mic overall.

[ChoobieWoobie]

the guitar center oktavas ran me $99 for 2 mics + a 10db pad. I use them for concert recording...and have used them as overheads as well. You can't beat the sound for the price. The mxl 991 is quite boomy, whereas the oktavas are a lot more crisp.