I'm in the market for a top-notch vintage LDC, preferrably by Neumann, although I'm considering AKG as well. Does anyone have experience with a wide range of vintage Neumanns? I'm just not sure what the sonic differences are, and there are so many options to chose from.
Basically, I'm looking to add a real jewel to my mic closet, and yes, I know I should just use my ears, but it's awfully hard to borrow a $30,000 pile of microphones for critical comparison.
I record a very wide range of indie rock music, so versatility is a plus. Words like smooth, warm, and "air" come to mind, but not overly bright. I'm leaning towards a tube mic.
Hopefully, you can tell me what years the construction (i.e. sound) changed significantly for various mics, and what the differences are in the similarly-named models. For instance, what is the major difference between a M49 and an M50?
Also, if anyone knows of a comprehensive book that contains this type of info, that would be greatly appreciated. If not, feel free to write your own!
I'm a man of modest means, so a $4,000 mic will be a pretty big investment for me. I'm open to suggestions for newer or cheaper gear as well. BTW, I currently own just 1 junky (free) LDC.
Gracias...
PS - What about new "vintage" boutique mics? Blue, Soundelux, Brauner, etc. Any luck?
Basically, I'm looking to add a real jewel to my mic closet, and yes, I know I should just use my ears, but it's awfully hard to borrow a $30,000 pile of microphones for critical comparison.
I record a very wide range of indie rock music, so versatility is a plus. Words like smooth, warm, and "air" come to mind, but not overly bright. I'm leaning towards a tube mic.
Hopefully, you can tell me what years the construction (i.e. sound) changed significantly for various mics, and what the differences are in the similarly-named models. For instance, what is the major difference between a M49 and an M50?
Also, if anyone knows of a comprehensive book that contains this type of info, that would be greatly appreciated. If not, feel free to write your own!
I'm a man of modest means, so a $4,000 mic will be a pretty big investment for me. I'm open to suggestions for newer or cheaper gear as well. BTW, I currently own just 1 junky (free) LDC.
Gracias...
PS - What about new "vintage" boutique mics? Blue, Soundelux, Brauner, etc. Any luck?