If you're going to bump through a dozen or more mics, it might be worth while to book some studio time at a studio that has a dozen or more mics (and some decent preamps). Maybe hook up with a band that's already booked the time, and partake during their breaks. Whatever works. The difference between mics is pretty extreme IMO. Enough to warrant (if resources allow) the purchase of a $1K mic (Neumann) over a $50 mic (Shure). Or in some case a $14K mic over a $2K mic.
Fortunately we get to optimize our orientation to the mic(s). If we need to be almost chewing the mic, we can do that. But in some situations like where you're reading something or shooting video and can't have the mic resting on your chin, in your mouth, or whatever works for you. Mics like the EV RE-20 will let you be in relative proximity for an equal or better result.
If you're just cheap (like me), go to youtube.com and search for new media gear. They have a number of samples of radio-ish show type usage of a lot of common mics. Not that you'll get equal results, but you can see the mic, how it's used, how it sounds relative to OTHER mics that you might be familiar with, and get a better ideal if it's worth taking a look at said mic. Of course they probably have better preamps than you and the other extras. So use a grain of salt there.
