Which Mic(s)

[Scoot82]

Hi, I am looking to get a mic or possibly two to just do some very basic recording. I am getting a Behringer Eurorack UB1202 Mixer and I was wondering which mic I should get for the cheapest price that will still produce some decent vocals and maybe another mic for random other instruments that I can plug directly in to the mixer? Any info is greatly appreciated.

 

[DJL]

Get a Shure SM57.

 

[Rev E]

I agree on the SM57. I also suggest getting a used Mackie VLZ Pro mixer or a Soundcraft E or M series mixer rather than that Behringer. You'll be happier in the end.

P.S. I tell you this out of personal experience. Behringer stuff is appealing because it's cheap, but if you want to use the stuff for recording anything decent, you're better off getting a Mackie or a Soundcraft. It may cost you a little more up front, but you won't end up selling nearly as fast as you WILL with the Behringer mixer. Just and FYI. Don't let me tell you "I told ya' so later." These were painful lessons for me. Don't repeat them if you can.

 

[kid klash]

Get a Shure SM57.

I agree with DJL here - the SM-57 is an excellent way to start your mic locker.

 

[tdukex]

I agree on the SM57. I also suggest getting a used Mackie VLZ Pro mixer or a Soundcraft E or M series mixer rather than that Behringer. You'll be happier in the end.

P.S. I tell you this out of personal experience. Behringer stuff is appealing because it's cheap, but if you want to use the stuff for recording anything decent, you're better off getting a Mackie or a Soundcraft. It may cost you a little more up front, but you won't end up selling nearly as fast as you WILL with the Behringer mixer. Just and FYI. Don't let me tell you "I told ya' so later." These were painful lessons for me. Don't repeat them if you can.

I kinda agree, and I kinda don't. If you definitely need all of the features of a mixer and you can swing $400 in the near future, then the Mackie or Soundcraft are the best bet. OTOH, I used a Beh mixer for about a year before I could afford another (better pre). For $100 it got me started in recording. If I had to wait for a Mackie ($375). It would have taken at least another year. I'm glad I didn't wait. I learned a lot in that year.

Also, if a person really only needs a couple of preamps--not the other features of a mixer, then I don't think either a Mackie or a Soundcraft mixer give you the best pres for the money. You can almost get an RNP ($475) for what you pay for one of those mixers, and for around $150 (less than half the price) you can get a DMP3 which probably has better preamps than either.

 

[tdukex]

And I agree the 57 is an excellent first mic. It's decent on lots of things.

 

[Rev E]

Good comments tdukex. Your opinion is certainly valid. But I did recommend a "used" Mackie. A used Mackie 1202 is going on eBay for less than $200 these days. Soundcraft Folio mixers go used on eBay for less than $100 (4 preamps). Entry level is one thing, but quality for the money is another IMO.

 

[Scoot82]

Cool, thanks everyone

 

[chessparov]

Besides the SM57 (or Shure 545 series-also Unidyne III capsule),
the Electro-Voice EV 635a would be an excellent complement.

The Shure's have a more assertive tone, while the 635a is more mellow.
You can get these for less $$, if you buy used.

The EV 635a can be an excellent vocal mic for many voices, like the Shure's above.

Chris

 

[tdukex]

Good comments tdukex. Your opinion is certainly valid. But I did recommend a "used" Mackie. A used Mackie 1202 is going on eBay for less than $200 these days. Soundcraft Folio mixers go used on eBay for less than $100 (4 preamps). Entry level is one thing, but quality for the money is another IMO.

Rev E, I do agree that a used Mackie VLZ (in excellent shape) for < $200 is indeed a good deal and a good way to start recording.