What is the best tool available, and how much does it cost? Have you ever tried to use a Diesel locomotive for a screwdriver?.
I'd say the best microphone is a Shure SM-57. It's cheap ($80), it can record *anything* (voice, guitar, bass, piano, amps, toms and snares. kick, or as an overhead for crashes & rides, etc.). In short, if you're able to ask the question, "what is the best mic?" with a straight face, it's the mic for you, because it will help you learn to ask more meaningful questions for a mere $80. The "best" mic is the one you can afford that will do the job right here, right now. And when you own that Elam, (you rich SOB), you'll still need a Shure SM-57, because for some jobs, that Elam will be the wrong mic, and the SM-57 will rock. BTW, what is the best motor vehicle? -Richie