small or large diaphragm condensers

[smidgie]

I need to get a pair of condenser microphones for use as drum overheads, acoustic guitar mics, vocals, and pretty much anything else. What is the difference sound wise between small and large diaphragms and what is better for all round use. For small diaphragms, i'm thinking of getting a pair of AT 3528. If i should go large diaphragm, the NT-1 fits my budget quite nicely. What do you think of these? Any other suggestions for under $700 for a pair?

 

[Paulie]

I use Shure SM-81s they are about $330 a piece

 

[El Barto]

Oktava MC012's from The Sound Room only are also commonly recommended around these parts...they run $680 I guess for a matched stereo pair...check out http://www.oktava.com/

 

[Recording Engineer]

Again, I think my answer depends on whether or not you plan to buy another mic in the reasonably semi-near future or not.

Check-out another thread in this forum:

Something like MC-012s as workhorses.