Recommend Condenser Mic $250-$400

[dennyc765]

I would like recommendations for a condenser mic in the $250-$400 range. I need to record vocals, vibraphone/marimba (high attack level), and percussion. Vibes & marimba have special problems but still need the "warmth" (as does the vocals). Thanks for help with my "newbie" problems.

dennyc765

 

[daav]

Look for a used AT 4040 or 4050 if you can get it. Lots of others choose from, I am sure others will toss out their favs. Try out several if you can.

Daav

 

[tubejay]

There are quite a few, I like the SP C1, the 4050 used would be a great choice too, Rode NTK's are kind of nice too.

 

[Kasey]

Another vote for the AT 40 series. I have the 4040, and it's a very versatile mic. I have fancier mics that I use for most vocals, but the 4040 is actually still used on quite a bit of vocal tracks, and works quite well, depending on the voice. As for the percussion/marimba/vibes stuff, the 4040 is fantastic for that stuff.

it's not a particularly colorful mic, more of a "what you hear is what you get" mic. Perhaps the 4050 has more color to it. Anyways, you won't regret buying either of those mics.

 

[omtayslick]

Look into a Michael Joly modded Oktava.

 

[Ty]

You can't go wrong with Michael Joly mics, I have the 319 flat top and a set of MK-012, they are excellent.

 

[HeyHeyMyMy]

AT4050 has worked out great for me. The AT4047 is supposed to be a little warmer, is it not? I could be wrong.

 

[lumbago]

I have used a modified radio shack plate mic for vibes (very good).

Otherwise, a Rode NTK or NT1A (depending on your local prices).

 

[Kasey]

I haven't used one, but the OktavaMod mics are praised far and wide. I certainly intend to get one eventually.

 

[antichef]

+1 for the Joly Oktavamod MK-319 - my favorite. You can probably pick up an unmodded 319 on ebay for $80-$100 and then send it to him, or I think you can buy them new and modded from him, too.