LDC For around $1000?

[Innovations]

Hence why they ask for Neumann mics, the same as they'll ask if you're running pro-tools - cos they've heard that that's what the big boys use.

Not saying it's right, but that has been my experience at least, to the point where I picked up a Neumann just to say I have one. I won't bend as far as using protools though

This was sort of what I was trying to say, but it is more than that. Sometimes with a pro studio you are having to mix tracks made at more than one place so you need to have a standard sonic quality.

For example it is my understanding that npr has standardized on Neumans in their air studios. Why? because a typical npr program might have segments recorded in several stations's studios plus the local host for the broadcast. If they were using a mix of all sorts of microphones the show would be far less seamless.

 

[joewolensky]

I'll look around for some acoustic guitar recordings, I might have some that I just don't want to post because they're so bad, I'll look though. The pre is nothing special - onboard preamps from a Yamaha 01V. That sample, I ran it through an Art Pro VLA before recording just touching some gain reduction - some reverb & mod delay - no eq'ing. I'd kinda like to hear some samples from some others too as one can never have too many mics!

Yes definently post more samples if you have them Basically Im getting close to making a record on my own. But I want to upgrade the vocal mic with the intention of also using it for accoustic instruments.

 

[Soundmind??]

If you want colored sound, go with the tube mike, if you want clean, accurate, and low noise, the TLM 103 and the AKG C414 that Richard Monroe recommended will both do well. The AKG is much more versatile with numerous polar patterns, pad, etc and costs slightly less. I have used it on ensembles with good results. Haven't miked a solo voice though, perhaps others can give you insight on that. The 103 will pick up sounds you didn't know were in your studio. With no EQ, the 103 will capture the sound very accurately, which means it records talent very well, as well as lack of talent. I hear it will even help you find ants and termites in your walls (lol). Good luck on your decision.

 

[BigRay]

This was sort of what I was trying to say, but it is more than that. Sometimes with a pro studio you are having to mix tracks made at more than one place so you need to have a standard sonic quality.

For example it is my understanding that npr has standardized on Neumans in their air studios. Why? because a typical npr program might have segments recorded in several stations's studios plus the local host for the broadcast. If they were using a mix of all sorts of microphones the show would be far less seamless.

thats why I record, mix and master all my clients work myself. I have my own standards, and dont accept anyone elses. Neumann aint it.

glad I dont do rock!

 

[joewolensky]

If you want colored sound, go with the tube mike, if you want clean, accurate, and low noise, the TLM 103 and the AKG C414 that Richard Monroe recommended will both do well. The AKG is much more versatile with numerous polar patterns, pad, etc and costs slightly less. I have used it on ensembles with good results. Haven't miked a solo voice though, perhaps others can give you insight on that. The 103 will pick up sounds you didn't know were in your studio. With no EQ, the 103 will capture the sound very accurately, which means it records talent very well, as well as lack of talent. I hear it will even help you find ants and termites in your walls (lol). Good luck on your decision.

Yea Im kind of leaning towards that Rode K2 mic.I really dig the warmth and color the tubes add. Im going to also get a nice pair of pres.Im kind of leaning towards the C84 kit from seventh circle audio. Its a more transparent sounding pre. Haha im sure itll beat my mackie I really love how a nice sounding pre will make everything sound deeper and clearer

 

[riffy]

Wow, that sounds really nice . Do you have recordings of the K2 on say an accoustic guitar? What kind of pre did you run it into, if I may ask.

Ok, I recorded a series of quickie takes of a Schecter SW-3500 acoustic. Just put some strings on it (too heavy) so the tuning is a little wacky sometimes. Anyway, the path is:

guitar
Rode K2
Art Pro VLA (real light)
Yamaha 01V Mixer, Adat output --> Wavecenter PCI adat

mono track with stereo reverb & a stereo slap. The file is a bit longer (larger) than what I wanted, oh well.

 

[joewolensky]

Ok, I recorded a series of quickie takes of a Schecter SW-3500 acoustic. Just put some strings on it (too heavy) so the tuning is a little wacky sometimes. Anyway, the path is:

guitar
Rode K2
Art Pro VLA (real light)
Yamaha 01V Mixer, Adat output --> Wavecenter PCI adat

mono track with stereo reverb & a stereo slap. The file is a bit longer (larger) than what I wanted, oh well.

I like it dude, I think the Rode is what im going to get.Can't wait to hear how it sounds on my martin!

 

[soundchaser59]

You can get a beyer M130 and M160 for that price. That combo is much more versatile than one LDC. those two are ribbons and sound really nice.

and yes, the Gefell m930 is amazing.

This is the ticket, BigRay has you covered.

I'd love to have those two ribbons.....but when I ask this same question here at home all the pro sound guys dont even think about it, they just automatically reflexively say the word "Gefell!"

Neumann is your third choice.

But the question above is also very valid......is the rest of your gear up to the same standard as the $1000 dollar mic? If not, then a thousand dollar mic wont help you. If so, then I stand by the recommendation above.

 

[joewolensky]

This is the ticket, BigRay has you covered.

I'd love to have those two ribbons.....but when I ask this same question here at home all the pro sound guys dont even think about it, they just automatically reflexively say the word "Gefell!"

Neumann is your third choice.

But the question above is also very valid......is the rest of your gear up to the same standard as the $1000 dollar mic? If not, then a thousand dollar mic wont help you. If so, then I stand by the recommendation above.

Yep, I got a nice guitar,acess to approriate room, and I can sing.

 

[riffy]

I like it dude, I think the Rode is what im going to get.Can't wait to hear how it sounds on my martin!

I'm sure it will sound alot better with the Martin, the Schecter is my kids & while it's fun to play it really does sound pretty darn thin compared to a Martin.

 

[sound125]

Hi guys! Im looking for a LDC for around $1000. Basically I need it to record vocals,accoustic guitar,violins,piano,etc. I was wondering what you guys recomend. I was looking at the Neumann TLM-103,Mojave MA-200,Soundelux U195,and Rode K2.

I do live sound work geared toward acoustic music and have started using the TLM 103 for live recording applications. It's well built, sounds great, and has withstood road work. Bottom line, it works for me.