Yep, Opinions Time on 2 LDC Mics

[sloom]

They are:

ADK A-51 Type V, or the AT 4033a.

I can only have one, and it'll be for all-around use: Vox, acoustic stuff, maybe as part of an M/S set-up for drums, etc (would you use either for drums? Not close-miking, but out front a little). The M/S jig would include a studio Projects B3, in fig. 8 mode for the Side signal. This will be a home-project; I'm making a record of my own, and won't be making money per se with the mic- so it's not for use in a professional studio.

I anticipate the AT-4033a getting the boost. What do you guys say?

Thanks for your time.

 

[pohaku]

Have a 4033, Never used the ADK. Never been that fond of the 4033 and rarely use it. Personally, I'd look for a used AT4050. Flatter than the 4033 and multipattern. Good for vocals and acoustic guitar. I've used a pair for overheads. My favorite "so-called" LD in the $300-400 price range (the last qualification was for Harvey's benefit) unless you can land a used Beyer MC834 at that price.

 

[Shadow_7]

I had a 4033a. Lots of detail. But from an EQ perspective NOT suited for all around use. Great on Tuba, but beyond that too colored to record brass and still sound like brass. Probably weakest in the lower mids or Baritone voice. I play Trombone and Euphonium, and sing a mediocre Tenor II / Baritone, so it wasn't the mic for me.

I'd second the 4050 or 4060. More even across the registers. And better suited for all around use. To me the 4033a is more specialized for female vocals and kick drum.

I'm currently using a pair of Avenson STO-2's. Nice flat EQ and well suited for most things. But lacks the LDC detail on distant sources. It's so nice to record a Trombone and have it sound like a trombone. Or to hear me talking and recognize it as me.

 

[Shadow_7]

The 4033a is considered good for a room mic, specifically for drums. And decent on steel string accoustic guitar. Which is why I got it in the first place. As a room mic (for a brass ensemble). A great room mic in terms of picking up TVs and such in the next room over. Just too colored for my uses.

You might try looking at an MXL 603 or 604. From the sound samples I was debating about an sE Titan, MXL 603, or Pearl TLC66?. They just seemed to have the sound and detail I was wanting. Then I saw these Avenson STO-2's come up for sale and couldn't find anything I didn't like about them from the samples. And they're better suited for my needs. Outdoors, exposed to direct sunlight, and elements. Bouncing around in the trunk of my car, and all that jazz. And the used price was in my budget.

You might check out some of the sound samples available online.

http://www.studioauditions.com/jamroomsessions_home.php

And other sources.

 

[LP2006]

I have had nothing but good experiences with the 4033a. Sounds good with just about anything I throw at it. However, I have also had the 4050, and have like it even better.