suggestions???

[famous beagle]

Ok, I'm a one-man operation right now, which unfortunately means I'm having to use a drum machine on most of my recordings. BUT, I don't have to concern myself with recording drums, so I'm trying to see the bright side.

Here's my question:

Right now my mic cabinet contains some 57s, a 58, and one MXL V67G as my only condenser.

I have a DMP3 preamp.

Staying under $1000, would I be better off getting one really good condenser or several different ones to handle different things.

Here's what I'll be recording, at one time or another.

vocals
acoustic guitar
elec. guitar
a console piano
bass
some keyboard sounds with my vintage keys module
a few percussion instruments (bongos, shaker, triangle)


I'm not very impressed with the V67G.


Could I have some suggestions on what would be the best route?

Thanks much.

 

[scrubs]

Lots of ways to go here. If you are willing to buy used, you can dramatically increase your options. I would get:

A versatile (possibly multipattern) LDC ($300-500):
AT 4040/4050
Studio Projects T3
cheaper: CAD M179
etc. -- try to get something that will work for your voice

A pair of SDCs ($250-350):
Used Shure SM-81 (can get these for <$150 each on e-bay)
Studio Projects C4, MXL 604, Oktava MC012, etc.

A good dynamic for amps & some vocals ($250-275 used):
Shure SM7B
Electrovoice RE20

 

[famous beagle]

thanks for the input scrubs.

I have a few questions real quick:

1) With my recording needs (i.e., no drums), what would I use the pair of SD condensers for?

2) I'm pretty happy with my elec. tone (miking my Boogie Maverick with a 57). Are the other two dynamics going to be a big improvement, or just provide alternative sounds? I know the 57 has been used so much on guitar amps throughout the years, so I guess I figured if I couldn't get that to work, then I'd have to be doing something else wrong. But I do like the results I've been able to get with it.

The biggest disappointment in my sound so far has been on vocals and acoustic guitar.

thanks a lot for your advice.

 

[Docaroo]

The condeser pair would work nicely on the acoustic

 

[scrubs]

1) With my recording needs (i.e., no drums), what would I use the pair of SD condensers for?

2) I'm pretty happy with my elec. tone (miking my Boogie Maverick with a 57). Are the other two dynamics going to be a big improvement, or just provide alternative sounds? I know the 57 has been used so much on guitar amps throughout the years, so I guess I figured if I couldn't get that to work, then I'd have to be doing something else wrong. But I do like the results I've been able to get with it.

1) Small diaphragm condensers will be useful for all sorts of things. Mainly, acoustic guitar and piano off your list (though also for various percussion). You don't necessarily need a pair (although stereo miking an acoustic guitar is great for a sparse mix). A single SM81 would serve you well and you could add another as budget permits.

2) The larger diaphragm condensers, again, tend to have multiple uses. Guitar cabs, some vocals, percussion (although you're not doing a drum kit now, the RE20 is a classic mic for kick drum and the SM7B is frequently used for snare and toms). IMO, either would better than the SM57/58 for many things, but not always. If you're happy with the 57/58's that you have, stick with those and add another dynamic later.

 

[homestudioguy]

Just an FYI

If it will help, I am selling a Studio Projects C3 and a 2 AKG C1000S small condensors in the equipment sales forum.
The C3 is a 3-pattern mic (cardioid, figure 8, omni) that was reviewed in Pro Audio Review and received some good comments as to how well it recorded acoustic guitar and voices.
The C1000S is a multi-purpose condensor with a reputation said by some to be like that of slim-jims. You either really like it your you really dont
I am selling mine as I just don't use them.
Bob G