All I can say is if your people can sing like those people, you rock. Please to post up nice music! In the meantime, mics. Everybody has their favorites. I like AKG C2000B in your price range. My .02 worth- Good dynamic mics are cheaper, by and large, than good condenser mics. They also have weaker output, and are less sensitive, usually (a good thing in noisy rooms). They also want a good preamp. The mics Chessparov suggests, the Electrovoices, are great buys used. But- they suck when plugged into a substandard preamp.
Many people hear their first cheap condenser mic and go WOW, it's so clear.
Ten years later, they plug the dynamic into their Martek and go WOW, it's so clear! If you've got so-so gear to record with, often I think, the best condenser you can afford is the way to go in the beginning. You will need a dynamic also, a used SM-57 or stage vocal mic of your choice. Look for a used AKG D320 or D330 on ebay. I got mine for $45, and it's a pretty good recording mic. Several other mics stood out in the threads above. Audio-Technica 4033 and 4044 and the CAD mics seem to be well received. I have used the 4033, and it's a versatile mic, but out of the price range you seem to be suggesting.
Vocal mics are personal, like shoes. I'd rather have a cheap pair of Chinese flats that fit, than fine Italian boots that don't. Plenty of great singers have made recordings that are immortal with cheap mics. Right now, Guitar Center seems to have Oktavas. You might like MK319, probably doable for $99 or less, especially for the ladies in your life. I've been working with 3 women, and they universally dislike my favorite vocal mics. They like the Oktava. Cheap dates.-Richie
, try some vocal plate reverb if you're shooting for that sort of classic RCA Studio sound.
