Need a new Gold channel for total of $1500

[Hard2Hear]

I know $1500 is not much money, so maybe it's an aluminum channel . But I need a new vocal channel, mic all the way to the console input. What are some suggestions that you have actually used or know about? We are thinking about a Neumann TLM103 and a Focusrite Penta. Current large diaphragm condensors we have are Rode NT2, AT4033, Apex430. I really like the sound I have heard with the TLM103.

Thanks much,
H2H

 

[Wide Awake]

You probably need to go find a store that has a TLM103 and try it out. If I was a singer that's the mic that I would look at first, just based on reviews. I heard a demo made with a BLUE Dragonfly last night and it was amazing sounding....about the same price as the TLM103. I don't think either one of those mics has a bass rolloff or pads. If the Studio Project C3 is great, it's less money. The Audio Technica 4047 and the Rode NTK are good candidates....but you already know that. There's just too many damn mics on the market.

The Presonus XVP might be a good candidate too. It's compressor has limited controls but it has a good preamp and a de-esser and some other great features. I think the Focusrite Voicemaster is only $100 more than the Penta and looks more versatile.

I would probably buy the Presonus XVP and a Rode NTK. About $1100.

 

[Gidge]

https://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?s=&threadid=31912

 

[CyanJaguar]

The tlm 103 is a very good mic. I preffered it to the blue dragonfly and the shure ksm32 on initial audition.

If you want it to shine, you MUST pair it up to a peavey vmp-2 tube channel(approx $750 for 2 channels). It is highly regarded as the best tube channel for under $1500. When I heard a tlm103 going into the vmp-2, I was floored.

I really like the sound of the focusrite penta too. It sounds sooo smooth on vox. Pair it up with a BLUE blueberry(1998 tec award winner. edged out the neumann m147) and you are talking WOW sound for $1500

 

[Hard2Hear]

All good things to know gentlemen, thanks very much. I'm goinna have my people see how cheap they can score a 103, I'll share if I can get a killer price on it.

H2H

 

[tubedude]

Something to keep in mind... I havent heard it, but I could nearly guarantee its worth... Phoenix Audio has a new pre out that is based on the 1073 Neve curcuit that has a different kind of input and is load sensitive and adjustable. Single channel is $800. That puts you at $1500 for mic and pre. Word has it that its a fantastic pre. But, thats word, and if you can find it see ifyou like it. Chances are you will. The Penta is allright I guess, but if I was spending Penta money, I would try a Grace 1st.

 

[tubedude]

I add even more good news... the Phoenix Audio pre is 2 channel and its $1000 US. I just saw some info on it on RAP. CHeck it out.