Hi - I have a 319, and an 012, both of which are quite good, and are exceptional values. I just bought a Rode NTK tube mic the other day, which is an awesome mic. After using it a bit, and falling in love with it, I put the 319 back up, wondering if I would still like it. I was really supprised how it stood up to it's new compitition in the mic locker. I'm not saying it's as good as an NTK....If I had to choose one or the other it would be a no brainer. But I don't have to choose, and I'm definetly NOT letting go of my 319. It's blissfully free of that hyped sound that all the other low price condensers have. It has a supprisingly warm sound. The vocals on my soon to be released CD alternate mostly between U87 and 319 on different tracks, and to be honest, I have to think about which was recorded with which. I'm not saying it sounds just like a U87...it doesn't. But I am saying it stands up well in such company, which is a remarkable feat givin the huge difference in their prices.
I bought mine at Guitar center, but only after making them bring out a dozen to audition and choose from. Don't try that at lunchtime, in the evening, or during the weekend. They'll be to busy to accomodate you. Or, as mentioned, if you don't want to go to GC on a weekday morning to find a good one, then the Sound Room does the testing for you, for a price.
Cheers, RD