A question regarding mics in relation to the KM184

[tbcq715]

Ok, Here's what I have.

I am going to be recording primarily acoustic guitars and vocals in a home "studio" I run Logic Pro and am using an Apogee Duet as my interface. My two guitars that I play through are 3.5 and 4.5 Mcphersons.

I have searched the forums (for days) and realize that every guitar will sound different...that every mic has it + and -'s. I get that, I really do.

Here's my dilemma: Not many music stores around here that sell anyting other than Sure sm57&8's! I have been searching for a small diaphragm condenser to record my acoustics with. It seems resoundingly that the Neumann KM 184s are spectacular. Im not opposed to spending that kinda money for them, but Im not sure what other REALLY comparable options are out there??

Had a few people suggest the AT 4041's...but I know those are in a different zip code.

Also have had quite a few recommendations for the Rode NT5 matched pair

So, any suggestions for a primarily acoustic guitar scenario?

PS - I will be using an AT 4047 for my vocals.

Thanks guys! Love the knowledge on this place!!!

 

[Big Kenny]

I use Shure 81's and modded Oktava Mk012's, i used to have a pair of 184's and sold them bacause I preferred the oktavas. Also sold a pair of 40451's

 

[Richard Monroe]

I use the KM184's, and I'm very happy with them. Here's a collection of higher end small diaphagms with offerings by Beyerdynamic, Microtech Gefell, and Josephson. The Josephson C42's in particular offer very good bang-for buck:

http://www.mercenary.com/smaldiapfetc.html

To die for (when your wife finds out what they cost)-DPA 4011:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/4011/

It looks like everyone is dropping Schoeps mics. I don't know if they are going belly up, but the Schoeps CM64 is still one of the best small diaphragm mics on the planet. It looks like Schoeps are now only available used, or as new old stock.

Good luck-Richie

 

[mshilarious]

It looks like everyone is dropping Schoeps mics. I don't know if they are going belly up, but the Schoeps CM64 is still one of the best small diaphragm mics on the planet. It looks like Schoeps are now only available used, or as new old stock.

It had been an exchange rate problem; Schoeps went up in cost quite a lot. But with the Euro tanking, maybe they will get cheaper again . . .