Opinions needed.....

  • Thread starter Thread starter pdlstl
  • Start date Start date
pdlstl

pdlstl

New member
I am wanting to get a good mic for recording acoustic instruments. This mic would be used for recording acoustic guitar, mandolin, fiddle, and dobro. Nothing else.

I'm considering the Shure SM81 or the AT 4041.

What the consensus on these two mics?

Thanks in advance,

Earl
 
so many options.

As you probably know there are 10zillion good small condensers. Both of the ones you have chosen will be good for your applications. I've always found the sm81 to be a tad harsh for my tastes but on wooden picked instruments it might highlight some frequencies you want. Just out of curiousity, why did you arrive at these 2? Both are good.
 
For fiddle and mandolin you might want to concider a ribbon mic.
 
Thanks to both responses.

I've just always known the SM81 to be a good small condenser. I spent 5 years in Nashville as a session player (pedal steel) and saw them used quite a bit.

I saw the 4041 at a decent price ($199) and this was the main reason I was needing a comparison.

So, I suppose either would be a good way to go.

Thanks,

Earl
 
Hey.....wait a minute! Do they let Pedal Steel players on this Forum? ;)
 
If you're considering an SM81, (I own 2 of them) this is a fantastic mic for small acoustic instruments. I have used it on saxophone, violin, guitar, flute, and a multitude of other woodwind instruments.
You can't go wrong with an SM81 for small acoustic instruments, it's a great mic.
I don't own, nor have I used any AT's, so I can't comment on those. But you wont be disappointed with the Shure SM81.
 
I've had good luck with the SM81 also..It sounds really good for strummed acousitc guit...Ive never used the AT4041 so I cant say much about it..For a ribbon the Oktava ML19 {about 400.00}sounds really nice for acoustic also..its a nice smooth sound ..I sure it would sound nice on violin and anything that you would want to soffen the focus of.. kinda like oiling the lens of a camara...Good luck


Don
 
I don't think one mic is going to work for all the instruments you stated but an SM 81 is a good start. For me, the mandolin records well with damn near anything but seems to sit in the mix better with my Oktava 219. Same for other upper register instruments like the autoharp, banjo, dulcimer, and high string. The 219's lack of high end response seems to work better in getting these instruments, especially the banjo. I don't know why and it doesn't make any sense. Generally though I'll go with what's already plugged in and work around that, and that's usually a C-1.
 
Slider said:
Hey.....wait a minute! Do they let Pedal Steel players on this Forum? ;)
Click to expand...

Hee-hee.....

I snuck in the side door disguised as an accordian player.... :D

Well, I've found the 4041 online for $199 (bulk price, no case but these are new mics). So, I think I'll try it first and if it's lacking then I'll pick up a SM81. (Unless I stumble across a good deal on Ebay! Can't have too many mics.....)



Earl
 
Last edited:
Pedal steel players are allowed in only if they promise to stay off the C6th neck AND no jamming on jazz tunes during the breaks.

They will get extra points for reading the Shot Jackson or Tom Brumley books during breaks, or for really learning how to play the dobro.
 
I really only think of small diaphragm mics in terms of pairs - if you like the AT i'd definately get another one.

If not, sell it, and get 2 81's. Or the Marshall 603 that is highly reccomended as well - $70 a pop.

A pair is the only way to go for recording acoustic instruments, in my opinion.
 
wes480 said:
...A pair is the only way to go for recording acoustic instruments, in my opinion.
Click to expand...
I'd agree, to an extent.
You get a sax player that likes to waiver around a lot while playing, and a stereo micing technique with Small Condensors will drive you crazy!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top