Multi Purpose???

[Tazwell]

Looking for a mic or a pair that could handle the job of recording single tracks.Acoustic,mando,dobro,and the real problem banjo.Is there one mic that could handle this? I guess I'm thinking dark and clear but really dont want to give up the bright.Or should I just forget the idea and go with two different types.One overall mic would be nice for the hole in my pocket.

 

[Jeyan]

Shure SM57 pretty much handles all your applications in a decent budget. Its reputation is great too. Good Luck.

 

[Halion]

I dissagree with Jeyan, I've never heard a good acoustical recording with an SM57. I'd go for a small condensor, but really, any condensor might work, you just have to find the one right for you. Perhaps one mic is all you need, perhaps not.

 

[ljmaxx]

From what you describe I'd pick up a couple of AT4033's or a matched pair of Crown CM700's http://www.crownaudio.com/pdf/mics/131031.pdf Either will do what your looking for IMHO. In fact you'll see the AT4033 used a lot on bluegrass bands in the studio and on stage. You didn't say what your budget is but if it's in the $500 range both of the mics above fall close to that especially if you shop ebay for pre owned mics. Good luck with what ever you decide on.

 

[skipwave]

If your recording space is well treated or naturally pleasant sounding for these instruments, you may want an omni SDC. An SDC with interchangeable capsules can be a Swiss Army Knife for a variety of instruments.

If you need this mic to also handle vocals, look at an LDC with switchable pickup patters. There are some budget ones that are supposedly quite good.

An sm57 can be used to make a good acoustic recording, but only seems complete when used in conjunction with a condenser. Also, the 57 will sound harsh on the banjo and mando.

 

[Tazwell]

The interchangeable caps is a good thought.I've tried 57s for acoustics with poor results,although pretty good for mic'in my boogie.My vocals are pretty well covered,thanks.I'll look into the ATs are something comparable.

 

[Tazwell]

Thanks for all the advice.I ended up getting a sm81,and Everything came alive true blue,wonderful mic.Except for my banjo ear,to explosive.And dont want to give up my gain.The closest I've came to the sound I'm looking for is a 57.But then the banjo lacks the gain.Anyways I ordered a sm7 for vocals,think maybe this could take the place of the 57 in a good way.Also I want this sm7 for vocals.Do you think cracks and pops from a banjo might ruin this mic for vocals? By the way I got another 81 on my Christmas list.