SM81 vs AT4040 Specifically for Voice

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bgavin

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What are the pros/cons of the SM81 vs AT4040 specifically for voice?

Target use is young female and male rockers, older male blues/rock vocalists.
 
Well,
The general opinion seems to be that Large Diaphragm condensers (e.g. AT4040) are preferable for vocals in most cases. I've never tried an SD like the SM81 on vocals, so I can't comment there. However my admittedly limited experience recording lead vocals allows me to at least say that the 4040 is very good for that application.
Then again, most people around here will tell you that right mic depends on the voice...good luck...
 
Do you get to compare them at all? They look like two completely different voicings on paper.
The 81 is suposed to be very susceptible to pops and/or wind if that's any consideration.
Wayne
 
No comparison available. I have an opportunity to grab either on a good deal.

I'm inclined to the AT4040, as it is LDC and will be used strictly for vocals.
 
Talk about comparing apples to oranges!
You taking a detailed small dia. condensor mike, the SM81, and comparing it to a somewhat hyped large dia. condensor mike, the AT4040.

Both mikes represent completely different applications of use.
You REALLY should read the "sticky" in this forum to have an understanding of how mike type, dia. size, and pickup patterns relate to microphone application.

Now, no one's saying you can't break some rules, but the SM81 would not be MY choice for a vocal mike.

If you're seeking a vocal mike, get the 4040, if you want a detailed instrument mike, get the 81.
 
I've been reading the stickies and digesting everything I can get my mouse on.

Problem is, opportunity is knocking right now and doesn't wait long. So, I had to ask the question.

I'm hoping to not make a mistake purchasing the AT4040 for vocals. My needs are not in the Neumann class, nor will they be in the near future. I'd like to have better vocals than I get from a Shure SM57/SM58.

Modestly good quality, I guess.

:D
 
Anyone would be proud to have either mike in their locker. I just wanted to emphasize the difference in applications. The SM81 is a great mike; a real studio workhorse, but not something I'd choose for vocals.
If you're after a vocal mike, get the AT.
 
Thanks.

I looked at the AT4050, while nice, isn't available as a bargain. It is also much pricier than my level of skill/earning potential can justify. I figure it will be a long time before I 'outgrow' the AT4040.
 
I nabbed the AT4040 for $222, new in the box. I bought an ATM25 from the same seller, so I have confidence in the condition of the mic.
 
SM81, though a great mic, is simply not a vocal mic.-Richie
 
Wow...great deal on the mic...man I wish I lived in a big city...
 
eBay.

I never buy anything locally anymore, either MUCH too high a price, or limited/no selection. The local GC is so high priced they are laughable. Even their weekly once-in-a-liftime sales are over priced.

I needed a lot of OnStage boom stands, and found them on eBay for $16 each, including a tote bag. Even with shipping, it was much less expensive to buy them new from an eBay dealer.

I got the AT4040 from the same guy that sold me an ATM25. The condition of the ATM25 was perfect, so I'm expecting the AT4040 to be the same. He said NIB, with papers, etc.
 
Richie, that's not quite true. The SM81 was pretty popular for live vocals when it came out. If I remember correctly, Simon and Garfunkel used them for their concert in central park, for instance. But I agree that the SM 81 is not the best choice for rock vocals. There's less expensive microphones that are likely to do a better job when recording vocals in the studio.
 
bgavin said:
What are the pros/cons of the SM81 vs AT4040 specifically for voice?

Target use is young female and male rockers, older male blues/rock vocalists.
Click to expand...
That's simple to answer... the Shure SM81 is a SDC and sucks for rock vocals and AT4040 the AT4040 is a LDC and rocks.
 
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I'm using SM57/SM58 for live vocals and performance DAW recording. No sense in having a pricey condensor mic exposed to damage from a thrashing punk rocker on stage. I've seen too many mics knocked over by zealous punkers.

The AT4040 will be used in more civilized surroundings where higher quality results are required.
 
I've used an 81 on vocals. Just depends on what you want. But I like the sound of small condensers in general.
 
Being as lazy as I am..There was a SM81 "up" and I had to do scratch vocals...Didn't sound very good at all..But its what ever floats your boat I guess;)



Don
 
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