Handheld Condenser Mic Recommendations

[badanimation]

I'm in the market for a reasonably priced handheld condenser microphone, say under $200. I have a fairly quiet voice, so I'm looking for something with a bit more detail and sensitivity than the SM58s at most clubs.

Anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks.

 

[mixsit]

I'm a little unsure about exactly what you're trying to get at here with more sensitivity'. Quiet' or not, it's always about signal to noise (your voice vs stage noise and feedback) and a good tone match with the mic and the voice.

I'd say try out a Heil PR22, not a condenser but very nice articulate sound, around $170. Pluses- plenty of top extension, not overly sharp' like mics voiced to 'cut through', a little less proximity effect ( = more consistent tone).
Downside-can sound a bit dull mixed in with a system full of mics set to 'cut through' and might need a bit of +2 or 3 @ 6k to blend in. But that's the beauty of it. A nice natural starting point, or dial in a bit when and where you like, rather than the typical fixed sharp point'.

On the other hand if volume is the killing issue maybe you'd be better off getting and staying right up on the tightest most directional mic you can find. That's exactly what OM5's and 7's are about.

 

[pohaku]

Good handheld condensers in that range include:

AKG C535eb - used @ $160.

AT-4054 - discontinued but a great mic and typically a bargain @ $140 or so used. It is basically a handheld cardioid version of the AT-4050. The AT-4055 is similar but with roll-off. The current model is the AE-5400 which has a roll-off switch.

Audix VX5 - used @ $200 - there's a couple for sale over on the GS classified at the moment.

But do you really need a condenser or just a better dynamic mic? I'd highly recommend the Audix OM6 (or if you are working a loud sound stage the OM-7) as a great performing dynamic mic that is certainly better than the garden variety SM-58.

 

[Big Kenny]

shure beta 87

 

[LorenzoG]

Agree with Kenny.

 

[antichef]

I've got a Shure Beta 87C, which is pretty good and rugged. If you're worried about feedback, consider the 87A, which has a tighter (hypercardioid?) pattern over the 87C, but of course requires a more conscientious mic technique.

I picked up a Groove Tubes "Convertible" on clearance at guitar center - I haven't done much with it, but it doesn't appear to suck and sound goods in casual testing (and is very sturdily built). It seemed noisy, but I noticed it had an adjustable bias (controlled via a trim pot inside), and when I tweaked that it was better.

That's the sum of my experience with handheld condensers in that range - not much.