Mic opinion

[crazyjman]

I have an Apex 430 large diaphragm condenser mic that I use for vocals and some acoustic stuff. I think it sounds pretty good but looking for a more experienced opinion. I'm no engineer and recording is just a personal hobby. Would I see a big difference in a more expensive mic?

 

[reshp1]

What do you plan on using the mics on and what's you're other equipment. If you are just recording for your own amusement and using gear that's in the same class as the Apex, I'm not sure it's worth upgrading. If it's the weak link in your chain and you are selling your recording services then yes there is a definite difference in higher end mics.

 

[scrubs]

I have an Apex 430 large diaphragm condenser mic that I use for vocals and some acoustic stuff. I think it sounds pretty good but looking for a more experienced opinion. I'm no engineer and recording is just a personal hobby. Would I see a big difference in a more expensive mic?

If you are recording as a hobby only, and are happy with your sound, I don't see any reason to upgrade. There are some tremendous (and tremendously expensive) mics out there that would likely make your apex sound like a toy, but you have to consider cost in conjunction with your goals. Unfortunately, microphones are only a fraction of the equation. If you upgrade to a more expensive mic, you'll eventually want to upgrade your preamps, cables, effects, monitors, A/D converters, etc. You'll also get into acoustic treatments for your recording space and on and on. Next thing you know, you've dropped $20,000 on this "hobby" and you still aren't satisfied.

Have fun, make music, be happy. If you must, go to the music store and audition some mics. But be aware this may lead you down the horrible road of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome).

 

[crazyjman]

Right now I just record for myself (wouldn't have the confidence to try for $) All I use the Apex for is vocals and a second mic in the room to mix with my first (sm57) which mics my amp.
The original reason I bought this mic was the cost and my own lack of experience in mics and mic placement
My main music interest is metal but I tend to record many different styles mostly for the sake of learning recording techniques.

Thanks for the reply

 

[dkelley]

Right now I just record for myself (wouldn't have the confidence to try for $) All I use the Apex for is vocals and a second mic in the room to mix with my first (sm57) which mics my amp.
The original reason I bought this mic was the cost and my own lack of experience in mics and mic placement
My main music interest is metal but I tend to record many different styles mostly for the sake of learning recording techniques.

Thanks for the reply

Then you'll be fine. You probably won't notice a difference unless you spend $1000, and even then it's very subtle. For metal the difference is probably covered by the guitars etc, and the brightness of an apex mic is a good thing for that style too I've found. I'd keep the apex. It's a nice mic, I use one too fairly often (and actually for very professional recording situations).

 

[jhughs]

If you must, go to the music store and audition some mics. But be aware this may lead you down the horrible road of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome).

So THAT'S what "GAS" means! Thanks Srubs. I was thinking "Great Audio Signal", but I suppose one thing leads to the other.......

P.S. That was great advice too.