Choir/vocal mic suggestions?

[GinEnema]

I've got a live gig coming up at which I need to mic up a choir with a decent stereo pair. Additionally I need to get a nice, but budget minded condenser mic, primarily for vocals, in my home studio. I would like to take care of both with one puchace. I have considered the Rode NT5 stereo pair, but don't know if their small diaphragm would allow for the crossover to studio vocals. Thus, I've considered just buying two NT1A's (since the price would be equivalent), but don't know how well this would work for the stereo choir setup. If anyone has any experience with using the NT5's for vocals, or with using NT1's as a stereo pair, or if you have any other mic suggestions that would fit this bill, your input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

 

[sile2001]

Well...that's kind of a tough one... Traditionally, large diaphragm condensers (LDC's) are used for vocals (with exceptions of course), while small diaphragm condensers (SDC's) are better for choir or ensemble applications. I don't have any particular suggestions to make, but just keep in mind that it might be tough finding something that serves well at both.

 

[qbert1]

I've never had the pleasure, but I've read the Shure KSM 32 is rather good for both applications. I read it here on Digidesign's DUC.

DIGI DUC

I know they're expensive...sorry if I'm blowing your budget...

Other than that, I have heard of people using their Oktava 012's as vocal mics too - with a pop filter of course. They do a good job, not great, with stereo recordings. There's also a different, larger capsule one can purchase that may help you with the close micing of a voice. I think it's commonly referred to as the Lomo.

You may be able to get a cheaper matched pair of Earthworks - like the TC30 or TC20 - and try them out as solo vocal mics - you never know. If stereo micing was my bread and butter and I was on a budget, this might be my choice.