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Top 5 Top 5 Microphones at Any PriceRecently, I was talking with fellow engineer Joe Pisapia about microphones -- and as engineers working out of our homes, we're always looking for ways to squeeze the best quality out of budget-priced mics. Then the question came up -- if we had no budget to adhere to, what mic would be the best use of our (imaginary, unlimited) funds? 1. Earthworks SR-30 Matched PairQuite simply, the Earthworks SR-30 are beautiful-sounding. Based on David Blackmer's principle that extending a microphone's frequency response outside the normal range of hearing will allow for a much higher-definition sound, the Earthworks SR-30 are amazing for overheads and acoustic instruments.The SR-30 (previously the SR-77) are also a favorite of concert tapers for their smooth and accurate recording quality in difficult environments. A matched pair runs $2,100 retail -- less through some outlets -- and is worth every penny, especially if recording highly detailed subjects.  2. AKG C-12 VR Tube Microphone
3. DPA 4022 Compact Cardioid Condenser MicrophoneDPA produces very accurate (and very expensive) microphones. They're a favorite for recording classical music as well as acoustic instruments, mainly due to their smooth, accurate frequency response.DPA microphones have a very specific "sound" to them; it's warm, tight, yet detailed; from the 4011 cardioid down to the cheaper, more affordable 4061, they all sound phenomenal. The 4022 is compact; it's very easy to get in the right spot for acoustic instruments, but it's also equally impressive on drums and for live taping; one of the best mics available whenever logistics is an issue! The price? $1,516 retail. 4. Sony C800G Large Diaphragm Tube Condenser MicrophoneSeriously, this microphone is one of the best for recording vocals; I first heard it courtesy of a hip-hop producer working on a major client, and it blew me away.The C800G is perfect for vocals or acoustic guitar; detailed and accurate with a very vibrant low-end, the C800G features a 6AU6 vacuum tube alongside a unique Peltier-based cooling system to allow proper tube operating temperature. Very impressive! Electronic-selectable polar patterns and a high -33db sensitivity round out this awesome offering - what many refer to as the very top of vocal mics. Ready for the price? Sit down... it's $7,800 retail! 5. Neumann Solution D Large Diaphragm Digital MicrophoneI'll be up front with you: this microphone costs more than my car.The Solution-D system includes three components: the D-01 digital microphone, a high-quality microphone in itself; the DMI-2 digital microphone interface, and the RCS remote control software which operates the microphone itself. Bringing Neumann's legendary quality to life with a 96kHz, high-quality analog-to-digital converter, the Solution D offers the absolute best of cutting-edge technology. Perfect for vocals (or anything, for that matter), this digital perfection comes at a price. Get that loan application ready: $16,000 and it's yours! Related ArticlesHow To Build a Taping Rig - Getting Started Taping Live...How To Record Acoustic Guitar - Getting The Best Acoust...Review: Audix UEM-81S Shotgun & Cardioid Microphone...A Guide To Microphones - Choosing Condenser or Dynamic ...How to Create Your Own Radio Program - Part 3 of 6: Too... |
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