RE20 for micing acoustics', 'working the mic live' or 'bluegrass' style work.

[mixsit]

I've come to the conclusion that some of the RE-20's rather unique traits make it a real gem for micing acoustic instruments where the artists are working their own dynamics. I haven't found any of my other mics to be so consistent with varying working distances, nor seemingly as smooth both on a off axis. The lack of bass load-up is really nice, even when it's up in an acoustic guitar sound hole, it doesn't make a mess out of it.
I'm wondering if other folks are using them in this roll, live or otherwise, or if there are other mics that are preferable. They are a bit heavy, and large. Not exactly inexpensive either.

Wayne

 

[xstatic]

A lot of bluegrass players actually like the AKG c1000 for this role for some of the reasons you mentioned. I am not a c1000 fan, but I must admit, it really seems to work for many bluegrassy mandolin, banjo, and acoustic players (referring to live in this post). I would be wary of using a PL20 due to gain structure issues in a PA and typical PA setup EQ's.

 

[soundchaser59]

I tested it on acoustic guitar, but the response was not nearly as clear and hot as my LD condenser. But I really like it on vocs, especially on any voice that has a good amount of power or rockin feel to it. It is much easier to control than the signal from a condenser with a vocalist who has no mic technique.

Besides, if you get in a bind the RE20 will put a hole in a 351 engine block if you shoulder fire it from a tube.....it can give a mugger a really nice concussion. And it still works after you get it back from the evidence locker.

I love the RE20, everybody should buy one, along with an MD421.

 

[scrubs]

I've tried it. It didn't do "strummy/jangly" acoustic that great for me, but I think it would be perfect for a chunkier picked sound. I need lots of gain from the preamp for my acoustic, though.

 

[giraffe]

i have a 27 (not exactly the same, but similar when the "hi cut" switch is engaged on the 27) and love it on acu gits.
not really tried it on other acu instruments yet.

27 is kinda like a brighter 20.

 

[mixsit]

Generally I was more getting into how it works live-ensemble style' rather than it's being the ultimate in tone, placed in that ideal spot. Otherwise, everyone save maybe vocalists, stays pretty much on that spot.
I wouldn't mind having a few more mics that do that.
Wayne