How matched should matched pair be?

[reshp1]

I just bought a matched pair of MXL 603s's. I like them, they really do sound incredible on acoustic guitar. The only issue I have with them is that they aren't really matched. One is significantly hotter than the other, and sounds just a little more midrangey. The only experience I have with matched sets is the pair of Audix f15 that came in the 6 pc drum mic kit, but they are almost identical in level and tone.
I guess it's hard to say without you guys actually listening to the samples (I'll try to post some if I can free up webspace), but how close should I expect "factory matched" to be. Is it worth sending them back for a replacement?
Thanks

 

[sile2001]

I would definitely say that if they are supposed to be a matched pair and they are different enough that you can notice it even without measuring equipment, then they aren't really matched

Sometimes the midrange response can just be a trick of the ears, but if one mic is obviously hotter than the other, then somethings not right.

If they're still under warranty, send those suckers back and get what you paid for.

 

[heroics321]

there should be no audible difference between two mics in a matched pair. send them back if it's really that noticeable. what situation were you in when you noticed it? even if the mics are only a few inches away from eachother, it will affect how they pick up the source. itd be easier to tell you if you listed the equipment you're using, it might not even be the microphones.

 

[Flatpicker]

there should be no audible difference between two mics in a matched pair. send them back if it's really that noticeable...

Better yet, call MXL and tell them about it. They may offer to swap them directly and personally check them to be sure you are getting a matched pair. Someone at the store where you bought them may have swapped them around doing a demo or something, you just never know.

I'd call MXL and ask for Scott.

 

[sdelsolray]

I just bought a matched pair of MXL 603s's. I like them, they really do sound incredible on acoustic guitar. The only issue I have with them is that they aren't really matched. One is significantly hotter than the other, and sounds just a little more midrangey. The only experience I have with matched sets is the pair of Audix f15 that came in the 6 pc drum mic kit, but they are almost identical in level and tone.
I guess it's hard to say without you guys actually listening to the samples (I'll try to post some if I can free up webspace), but how close should I expect "factory matched" to be. Is it worth sending them back for a replacement?
Thanks

As mentioned, you shold hear no difference between matched mics. I have a pair of matched SDs. I can't tell a difference at all.

 

[reshp1]

Thanks guys, that's what I figured. I've already contacted the place I got them from. It's ebay, but they seem to be a reputable company/seller (2000+ feedback) so hopefully I can get a new set.

I tried them with different preamps channels on my digi002R, different cables, etc. Same mic was always hotter and more midrangey. I was recording my acoustic from as far across my bedroom as I could and with the mics as close together as I could get them to minimize variation caused by mic placement. I'll try changing a few different variables to make sure it's the mics, but my guess these are going back from where they came.
Thanks again.