Inexpensive Multi-Pattern Condenser?

[AASteveo]

So I'm fairly new to the recording industry and I'm starting to build my mic arsenal. So far I just have a few SM57's and a 58.

Now I'm looking for an inexpensive multi-pattern condenser. I figure this would be the most versatile to start with as I only record one or two tracks at a time. And it would be nice to have the figure 8 pattern for mid-side and the omni for a room mic. It needs to be versatile since I won't be able to afford another mic for a while.

So here's some I found in the $200-$300 price range. Let me know what you guys think.

AKG Perception 420 - $300

MXL 4000 - $200

MXL 2010 - $170

APEX 460 Tube - $280

CAD M-179 - $200

CAD GXL-3000 - $170

ADK GT-2 - $300

Samson C03 - $120

SP B3 - $150

 

[soldierone]

I like the AKG mics... mine works great.

 

[GuitarsFromMars]

I like the studio projects B3 ...

 

[Marcadiablo]

I have the GLX-3000. You could find it for a 100 dollars. It's not a bad mic at all.

 

[antichef]

keep an eye out for a used AKG C414 - they usually go for about $500 on ebay, so that's out of range, I guess, but still worth keeping an eye out. I was lucky enough to find one at a pawn shop for much cheaper. And just so it gets said, even though I don't have one, a used Audio Technica AT 4050 is worth looking for, too. These look like they're closer to the price range on ebay.

I don't have any of the mics in your list, so I shouldn't be posting but the most interesting one to me that you listed is the Apex 460, because folks have had a lot of luck upgrading the transformer (you can find instructions on this and other boards, and here: http://www.morphproductions.com/apex460transformermod.htm ) and capsule in those.

 

[PhiloBeddoe]

If you can save another $100, you can get an AT-4050 new from some dealers for $400. This is a serious quality mic that you'll probably keep forever.

 

[nguyenandyy]

if you want inexpensive
get the samson co3

 

[tdukex]

If you can save another $100, you can get an AT-4050 new from some dealers for $400. This is a serious quality mic that you'll probably keep forever.

Good advice.

 

[nguyenandyy]

if you want inexpensive

get the samson co3

it only costs 100 dollars brand new

 

[scrubs]

Of the ones you listed, CAD M179. No question.

 

[cavedog101]

If you can save another $100, you can get an AT-4050 new from some dealers for $400. This is a serious quality mic that you'll probably keep forever.

Absolutely. Another option is two of the older model B3 Studio Projects. Its a mic that everytime I put it up on whatever source, I'm still happy with it. A solid steady performer at a price that shouldnt be. You can do a lot with a pair of them. Be sure and match the color dot if they're the older models. No, it doesnt really 'match' them.....Yes, it gets em close.

If you can swing a 4050, theres no contest with any mic on your list.

 

[rmaier]

I have a pair of Apex modded 460s that I like alot. Lots of info here on how to do the mods.

 

[TimOBrien]

I have an M-Audio Solaris ($250) and like it a lot.

 

[drossfile]

if you're stuck on your list, the m179 would be my pick.

if you're taking the long view, though, i'm with the others on the at4050.

 

[omtayslick]

Here's something new on the low end. Don't know if they've hit the dealers yet.

http://www.clynemedia.com/audiotechnica/AT2035__AT2050/AT_AT2035_2050.html

 

[NinthHour]

as one steveo to the next i can reccomend the m179, i picked one up and was very impressed with its performance, the coolest thing about it is its actually variable pattern which means instead of choosing between cardioid figure 8 omni etc. you can actually dial in any blend of the 5 patterns on the mic allowing you to get the exact polar pattern you need for any given situation the HPF and 20 db pad are also great features that add to the flexibility of this mic. its definatly your best bet on the list (other than the at of course)

 

[tdukex]

Just noticed that AT will soon launch the AT2050 a new 20 Series multi-pattern condenser. Don't know when or how much, but it could be an interesting choice.

 

[pohaku]

+1 on the A-4050. There's lots of used ones out there. I bought 2 of them that way. Great mic with broad application.

 

[omtayslick]

Here's something new on the low end. Don't know if they've hit the dealers yet.

http://www.clynemedia.com/audiotechnica/AT2035__AT2050/AT_AT2035_2050.html

Just noticed that AT will soon launch the AT2050 a new 20 Series multi-pattern condenser. Don't know when or how much, but it could be an interesting choice.

Yup..................

 

[TamaSabian]

Here it is

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/AT2035/