KSM44 vs NTK. An apples to apples comparison?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Sage97
  • Start date Start date
S

Sage97

New member
Sorry for the newb question. Obviously technically challenged, I read the specs and still don't know.

I currently have the NTK into the RNP/RNC combo and it works well for me but I just wanted to add another mic. If I go with the KSM44 (based on the reviews here), would I be upgrading?

Music style is soft acoustic guitar and vocals. None of the local stores have these mics so I will not be able to try before I buy.
 
Last edited:
That would be more of a personal opinion.

I think it's an upgrade. But others might think of it as a vertical move.
 
chessrock said:
That would be more of a personal opinion.

I think it's an upgrade. But others might think of it as a vertical move.
Click to expand...
Did you mean lateral?

Would an AT 4060 be more of an upgrade? I'm just going by price range.
 
If you're ordering from an on-line etailer like MF, M123, Sam Ash, etc... buy both and return the one you don't like. Then, keep on A/B mics until you find the one you like most. More than likely, you'll realize what I did and that is some mics are better for some situations than other mics and vice versa.

I bought the KSM44 and KSM27. I'm going to keep one and send the other back and follow my own advice until I find the best mic(s) for me.

BTW, for ACT GTR, I bought the John Peluso CEMC6 mics. Based on the Schoeps design. For $500 they are supposed to be the best mics for under $1000. Only your ears will be able to tell.

Regards,
Mark
 
One thing to keep in mind is that you already have a tube LDC in the NTK, and you would be getting a higher quality tube LDC in the 4060 (which do look nice, in fact I'm considering one myself).

Maybe you want to look at some non-tube mics in your price range to get something a little different, like the KSM44 that you mentioned.

I guess the question is, do you want a step up from what you have or just something of quality that is different and will complement what you already have?
 
I was looking for something that was a step up and complement the NTK and the AT4040 that I already have.

Never heard of the Peluso. My research continues.
 
I currently have the NTK into the RNP/RNC combo and it works well for me but I just wanted to add another mic. If I go with the KSM44 (based on the reviews here), would I be upgrading?
Click to expand...

No. And the 4060 you won't be an upgrade. You have a very good mic in the NTK, and no mic will be an upgrade unless you're prepared to separate with some serious green. If you're looking for a mic with a different voicing, however, either the KSM44 or 4060 would be a great addition. Simply, if you don't intend to replace the NTK I wouldn't look at your next purchase as an upgrade, but rather an expansion.
 
Olflattop said:
No. And the 4060 you won't be an upgrade. You have a very good mic in the NTK, and no mic will be an upgrade unless you're prepared to separate with some serious green. If you're looking for a mic with a different voicing, however, either the KSM44 or 4060 would be a great addition. Simply, if you don't intend to replace the NTK I wouldn't look at your next purchase as an upgrade, but rather an expansion.
Click to expand...
Olflattop,

Opinions like these are exactly what I wanted to hear.

If what you're saying is accurate, then I don't think there is really a need for me to upgrade. I would rather spend "serious green" on another guitar than another mic, especially because the NTK works very well with my vocals and is definitely a keeper for me. The SP C4s that I use for my acoustic guitars are great as well.

However, I will still look around for a used KSM44 or 4060 since I am curious to try their different flavors.

Thanks.
 
I seriously disagree with Olflattop. I'm not a huge fan of the NTK. It's way too sibilant for most vocals, IMO. I think the ADK TC is an upgrade from the NTK, for example.
 
The AT4060 would be a serious upgrade to the NTK. More subtle detail and smoother sounding.
 
The NTK is a great mic. I use it for a lot of things including vocals but its just not as smooth and clear as the AT4060. In fact I would go so far as to say, at under $1000, you should have all of the AT mics.

4033- really good for acoustic instruments and weaker vocalists
4040 -slightly warmer version of the above
4050 - Easily rivals the NTK with slightly clearer image
4047 - Really great female vocal mic, smooth against brassy sounding or edgy vocalists.
4060 - Rivals Neumann mics like the U87 and Soundelux 195. Very top quality big vocal sound.

I know I sound like an advertisement but these are some of the best values in microphones I can think of besides some of the Beyer mics.
 
Last edited:
Middleman said:
The NTK is a great mic. I use it for a lot of things including vocals but its just not as smooth and clear as the AT4060. In fact I would go so far as to say, at under $1000, you should have all of the AT mics.

4033- really good for acoustic instruments and weaker vocalists
4040 -slightly warmer version of the above
4050 - Easily rivals the NTK with slightly clearer image
4047 - Really great female vocal mic, smooth against brassy sounding or edgy vocalists.
4060 - Rivals Neumann mics like the U87 and Soundelux 195. Very top quality big vocal sound.

I know I sound like and advertisement but these are some of the best values in microphones I can think of besides some of the Beyer mics.
Click to expand...
Thanks Middleman. I'll look out for those mics.
 
I just recorded my Martin D28 with the NTK. It sounds monstrous! What a great sound. But... one thing with the NTK accessories....the shock mount that came with mine was a total piece of JUNK. It literally came to pieces. And, I just noticed that the rubber on the cord plug that goes into the mic is separating/splitting. JUNK. They've apparently cut some corners. Rather disappointing to see this...hate to see companies resorting to this cheapo garbage. Dang, Rode, just charge a little more and offer something useable that will last. Just thought this might add some things to consider. I still love the NTK.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top