It seems this is an old thread dating back many years. The original poster may have moved on or even passed away, but i thought id add my 2 cents.
Unlike many of you, i never really liked progressive/art/rock. I play
acoustic guitar and other instruments, i was into classical music, celtic music, movie soundtracks, Lennon McCartney, jimi hendrix, quite the mixed bag. I never really liked yes, elo, gentle giant, i did like some tull though. So it was a surprize to me that i became one of the worlds biggest Genesis fans.
But enough of that.
The other yes type groups, just sounded too "pop" or "commercial" for me.
Genesis was a unique mixture of elements, tinkling 12 strings, the mellotron, fantasy like choirs and gigantic string swells, deep non ending bass pedals, creative drumming,and vocals that were personal expressive and unique. The lyrics were about
giant man eating plants, greek mythology etc. And if a song were about a science fiction like subject, the music and atmosphere were perfect for the mood.
As far as the recordings back then, you could hear that the music was intense, but you certainly couldnt feel it in those recordings. It was all there somewhere, but the recordings were flat and dull.
So to the original poster, if youre still alive. I dont think the microphones had much to do with it. I think you were really reacting to Gabriels emphasis, feelings, and unique voice coming across with the music.
Theres a lesson there somewhere. No matter what equipment you have, if you dont have the spirit, it wont work. And if you have the passion and the skill, you just might effect someone, regardless of the equipment.
Of course its all the better if you have both and the recording is beautiful.
that was my 2 cents.
