good condenser for $1000

  • Thread starter Thread starter tdub82
  • Start date Start date
T

tdub82

New member
Hello everyone! I'm brand new to the forum here. I'm in the market for a new condenser mic and I'm working with a budget of about $1,000. I'll be using it for vocals and acoustic guitars. Right now I have a RODE NT1 and an AKG 1000s. What's the next step? Suggestions? Thank you in advance!
 
Last edited:
If it was me, I'd buy 2 or even 3 microphones.

For the vocals I'd consider maybe a TLM 102 or (a favourite of mine) an sE2200 II. However, at that price point you should try to find a place that will let you listen.

However, for acoustic guitar I prefer a small diaphragm condenser. If you like mono recording, an AKG391 is lovely--and a stereo pair is even better but might be outside the budget. Another option would be a stereo pair of sE1A mics...almost as good as the AKG. Me? I'd got for the cheaper mics and record the guitar in stereo.

Have I confused you enough yet?
 
You can probably get two Rode K2s, on ebay for under $1k, The K2 is a multipattern Tube mic. Put them both into Fig 8, and you can record vocals and guitar at the same time with excellent rejection when placed right.
 
It probably would have helped if I told you what I already have.... I'll add it to my original post.
Right now I'm working with a Rode Nt1 and an AKG 1000s
 
I love my AT 4047, its $700 new but I picked one up on ebay for $370 or so including shipping. Its a warm mic, not the most versatile but its great on rock vocals and bass instruments.

If you want versatility, a pair of AT 4050's should be in your budget, or a single AKG C414.
 
Go to guitar center try out mics in your price range THEN search the used market and buy 2 or even 3 with your money.
 
I'd get a solid vocal-centric mic (SM7b, RE20/27, something along those lines) because you really need one... And then probably start shopping around Avantone and Cascade.
 
AKG C414 is my suggestion - the Rodes are a bit bright as compared.
 
ido1957 said:
AKG C414 is my suggestion - the Rodes are a bit bright as compared.
Click to expand...

It's funny, I've got one of them, but I've never, ever used it on either vocals or acoustic guitar... mainly just as a second mic on guitar cabs. I must give it a try on other things...
 
I either love or hate my C414 depending on what I'm recording. Much more than most other mics, its performance seems to be very dependent on the programme material. I'd strongly suggest hearing it on your voice before any purchase. It may be perfect or it may be really harsh.
 
I saw a Telefunken AR51 sell see for under a grand on ebay and also the AK47 models. I like the AR better but depends on your uses.

I also like the Miktek I think the CV4 tube. Used might be 1100, but nice mic.

I u don't mind chinese the MXL revelation is nice too and if u can find one used, some cash left over for a pre.

If u aren;t dead set on condenser, consider the AEA R84 ribbon, again depending on the sound u are after.

Just my two cents. good luck and lots of great options out there these days.
 
Last edited:
I have a Neumann TLM 103 I got used in perfect condition (still in original box) for 700.00 There are many people who like them and those that don't. It is sensitive to the preamp you use. I use an SSL XLogic.

Anyway, it has a very clear high end from about 5k to 15k. So it records high falsetto voices for multi-track harmonies very well. It has that really sweet shine on the top end. It records female and clear male lead vocals well. Its decent for acoustic guitar, better if your preamp has an EQ so you can shape it more for guitar, because it is a vocal mic. I'm very happy with it. Even if I could move up to a U87 or something I would keep the 103.

TLM 102 is very similar, but has a flatter high end. The 103 has a slight boost over 6k. The 102 doesn't.

Ive also used AKG 414's. Better for instruments, I give the Neumann the edge for vocals. But if your preamp has an EQ the 414 can sound great on vocals too.
 
Bobbsy said:
I either love or hate my C414 depending on what I'm recording. Much more than most other mics, its performance seems to be very dependent on the programme material. I'd strongly suggest hearing it on your voice before any purchase. It may be perfect or it may be really harsh.
Click to expand...



True that, Bob. :thumbs up:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top