Deciding between three budget microphones

  • Thread starter Thread starter sekushii
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sekushii

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Hello. :) I am having some trouble deciding between three mics priced below $30. Although I am not an aspiring singer, I do sing as a hobby and would like decent quality of my recordings.

I've heard good things about the Behringer XM8500 and the GLS Audio ES-58. Both have been compared to the Shure SM58. I've also heard about the Audio Technica ATR30.

I've used the ATR20 before and the sound quality, to my ears, was alright. I assume the ATR30 will not be much better, considering the $10 difference.

I know USB mics are discouraged, but what do you think about them for my purpose? The AT2020USB has caught my attention. Would it be better to buy a USB mic, or should I buy a pre-amp and XLR cords for the mentioned dynamic mics? Ideally I would not like to spend over $100.

Thank you! :)
 
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I have a couple of GLS Audio ES57s. They aren't quite as good as my SM57s but they are close and much cheaper. I wouldn't mind if the drummer caught one with a stick quite as much.:D I grab my SM57s first but am not afraid to use the GLS versions when I need the extra mics. Mic placement seems to be more important than the difference in components. I don't have the GLS 58s but based on my GLS 57s I wouldn't hesitate to get a couple.
 
Thank you for your opinion on the GLS. :)
Although I've found that its reviews are a mixed bag. There are people who love it, and those who completely trash it... Perhaps they have fake ones. :confused:


I may be asking for too much since I don't know how many people have tried out all 3 mics, but I'm still hoping. :)
 
I'd rather get the at 2020, but don't get a usb mic. It's better to have an interface and a good old reliable xlr. Usb can be pretty finicky with drivers and stuff like that. I have the at 2020, but not the usb one. It's a good mic. I've used it on vocals, acoustic guitar, guitar amps, pianos, drums, and probably more

good luck on your decision.
 
tojo said:
I'd rather get the at 2020, but don't get a usb mic. It's better to have an interface and a good old reliable xlr. Usb can be pretty finicky with drivers and stuff like that. I have the at 2020, but not the usb one. It's a good mic. I've used it on vocals, acoustic guitar, guitar amps, pianos, drums, and probably more.
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Great advice. USB mics also sound like hammered crap...I'd much, much prefer a 2020 to any USB mic made.

Frank
 
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