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Title: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 12:41:40 PM
Those of you who record.....

Recently I have been doing a lot of recording. Chris has been asking for sometime for me to sing and record my favorite songs and I finally started the project in March. I have 10 songs so far. I need to get as much done as I can before I get too old!!!
These are songs that would not normally be associated with me ( I've always been very rock 'n' roll)  - they are old classics really - songs that have significance in my life over the years. 

When I was in bands years ago, we didn't have the sophisticated recording technology available at home the way we do now and even getting a decent demo done was expensive so we did very little recording wise - it was all live work. We were also always so busy too. That was great then but now I have little to show of my work from back then.

As some of you may know my voice was damaged badly some years ago due to major neck surgery and I never thought I'd ever sing again (partly why I went more into SR) but over the last few years, I have worked hard to be able to sing again. Doing backing vocals through the headset with the bands the past 3 or 4 years has helped so much and strengthened my vocal cords.
My voice is deeper than it was and I can't wail those high notes anymore but I choose the songs I sing wisely ....

Anyway I have been using non-expensive mics namely Rode NT1 and an AKG P420 and I have been getting quite decent results.
I'd like to invest in something nicer but cannot afford much more than $1000. I was thinking of going used to be able to get the best I can. I have seen every video I can find online regarding shootouts and reviews but still not sure...

I have been looking at the TLM102 and 103 - so many reviewers say the 103 isn't worth the extra money.
Then I don't want to pay for the name if something else lesser known would be as good or better for less money.

I realize mics are personal to type of voice and that is why I mentioned my voice type earlier. I am contralto really  I suppose.
What should I look out for?
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: scottstephens on August 15, 2019, 12:52:52 PM
Debbie,

As the owner of Blacksmith Recording Studio, let me tell you this:  some People like JBL some like EV, Crown vs. QSC.... Personally I do not like the Neumann 102 or 103
I think they have a hyped high end; an overly hyped high end.  But that might help you if your voice has lowered; how much?????  For a hit over $500 you can get a Shure KSM 32. It is a great all around mic, pretty close to ruler flat and it also makes a really nice overhead for drums! Dual use!  If you have lots of pre amp, I 'd also suggest a Shure SM 7, or an EV RE20, but that thing is BIG and heavy. 

Used Neumanns such as the 107 or TLM 49 can be had for a little less than a grand and those are really good for a lot of things. The 107 is very similar to the Shire KSM 32 in sound.
Good Luck and have fun playing around
Scott
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: lindsay Dean on August 15, 2019, 01:22:24 PM
 there's things you can do to the nt1 to make it sound less harsh.
if you search the internet people are talking about the basket and the mesh is the biggest problem with them
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Tim Halligan on August 15, 2019, 01:29:54 PM
Debbie,

If it were me, I'd look at renting a really great microphone rather than purchasing a merely good one. Better yet...get your basics done at home, then go to a decent studio to record your vocals.

That said...you might find a used Neumann U87, or even a TLM 170 for a bit more than your budget, but they are known classics. Older Microtech Geffell mics - especially the M70 - are well worth investigating...newer ones not so much. Brauner mics are really good...so good that they will reveal exactly how crappy your studio room is, so unless you have a spare 50k laying around to fix your room...maybe think carefully.

If you want new, I hear good things from engineer pals about Mojave. The M200 gets quite a lot of love in the mid-price category. Audio Technica have some good mics too...the 4060 valve was not bad for the money. The 4033 found its way into a lot of professional facilities back in the day.

Slightly left field...AEA R84 ribbon mics are gorgeous on vocals, and are the right price...but you might want to try one in your situation. You need a really good pre to make them shine, but they take eq really well.

HTH

Cheers,
Tim

PS. Given you're in North Carolina...I have a mate with a great studio with a good mic selection in Graham, North Carolina that I can put you in touch with, but as I'm not that familiar with the geography, I don't know if that's too far from you.



 
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Riley Casey on August 15, 2019, 01:30:38 PM
Neko Case apparently prefers an AT4050 for studio vocals over whatever high $$$ Neumanns or anything else she's encountered.  How much do you sound or want to sound like Neko Case?
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Tim Halligan on August 15, 2019, 01:32:49 PM
there's things you can do to the nt1 to make it sound less harsh.

If you mean hitting it with a sledgehammer, then I would agree.

Otherwise, no.

I know I should be patriotic and support the Australian product, but they really are hateful things.

Cheers,
Tim
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Riley Casey on August 15, 2019, 01:34:53 PM
Beyer M500 ribbon mics ( I'm reaching back to the mid 80s here ) were far and away the best sounding live vocal mics ever. The fact that I paid for each mic three times constantly sending them back to Beyer for new ribbons was enough of a drawback that I went back to 58s.

Debbie,

...
Slightly left field...AEA R84 ribbon mics are gorgeous on vocals, and are the right price...but you might want to try one in your situation. You need a really good pre to make them shine, but they take eq really well.
...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mal Brown on August 15, 2019, 01:35:31 PM
Have you sung on a Sennheiser 441 ?  It is a dynamic classic.  I keep one in my kit for special occasions.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Steve Crump on August 15, 2019, 02:11:14 PM
https://advancedaudio.ca/

Call and talk to Dave, you can't go wrong.

I have had good luck with the CM47, CM49 & CM87.   

Good group of guys...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Helge A Bentsen on August 15, 2019, 02:26:58 PM
DPA d:facto.

Not only an excellent live microphone, excellent in the studio as well. 

I've seen it advertised for around $1000 on the ´net.


And no, I'm not joking. I've recorded and mixed one album with this om vocals, both male and female.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Luke Geis on August 15, 2019, 02:42:07 PM
AKG C414, It is an all-around great performer and priced new right around that budget. I got a pair of C214's for beater overheads and they have impressed me, and every time I have used C414's I have been a smiling Bob. Something that can serve dual purpose for you at least.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on August 15, 2019, 03:01:54 PM
Hi Debbie,

I own and operate a recording studio as my day job (http://www.electricgiraffestudio.com/). Lots of great mics have been suggested above, most of which I own and use, and most of which you could find at any well equipped studio. I would strongly suggest you find a local studio that has a good selection of mics you are interested in and book a few hours. Have them set up as many of these mics at the same time as practical and record you singing into the mics. Take the tracks home and listen to them and then decide which mic YOU think best suits your voice and the material.

BTW - a common trick I use when recording vocals is to hang 3 or 4 classic vocal mics up in a cluster and record each of them to separate tracks. Then during mix down I'll decide which mic best suits the singer (or even blend them). Saves me the time of doing a vocal shoot out. In the old days when everything was direct to tape this wasn't practical, but now we have unlimited tracks, so why not.

Image shows a Perlman TM-1 (U-47 clone), Peluso P-67 (U-67 clone) and an AEA R44 clustered for a vocal take. These 3 mic models have been responsible for tons of huge hits over the years. Sadly they all exceed your budget, but it illustrates the technique.

(https://i.ibb.co/yFRFQ2z/Studio08.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k2y2SZL)
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on August 15, 2019, 03:09:44 PM
Oh, and since you do lots of live work, I recently picked up a MBHO MBD 219 C - hand held dynamic mic that sounds stunning. About $350 new. I bought it for live work but tried it out in the studio the other day for a scratch track and was impressed. Here is a youtube video with the lead singer using the MBHO MBD 219 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0TVNrCTsxY
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: brian maddox on August 15, 2019, 03:22:54 PM
Hi Debbie,

I own and operate a recording studio as my day job (http://www.electricgiraffestudio.com/). Lots of great mics have been suggested above, most of which I own and use, and most of which you could find at any well equipped studio. I would strongly suggest you find a local studio that has a good selection of mics you are interested in and book a few hours. Have them set up as many of these mics at the same time as practical and record you singing into the mics. Take the tracks home and listen to them and then decide which mic YOU think best suits your voice and the material.

....



^^this

Given the investment you're willing to make and the personal significance of this project to you, this is your best bet.  If for no other reason than being able to lay to rest that nagging "but is this REALLY a good mic for me?" voice inside your head.

I'm coming around to doing something very similar myself for a lot of the same reasons.  And thanks to this thread, i'm likely gonna try to take my own advice.  :)
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 03:38:28 PM
Wow - I really appreciate all the responses guys.....

Steve - the AA mics intrigue me - I left a message for Dave.

Tim - Renting wouldn't work for me. I like to go into my room and sing when I feel like it - no structure.
Thanks for the heads up on the mate with the studio in NC .. Graham is about an hour from me.

Actually as I was typing, Dave got back to me. NICE guy! We had a long chat about all kinds of things - some even were related to music - LOL!!
I am thoroughly interested in the CM47 from our chat.



Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 03:41:43 PM
Oh, and since you do lots of live work, I recently picked up a MBHO MBD 219 C - hand held dynamic mic that sounds stunning. About $350 new. I bought it for live work but tried it out in the studio the other day for a scratch track and was impressed. Here is a youtube video with the lead singer using the MBHO MBD 219 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0TVNrCTsxY

I really like this song!!! Mic sounds good....I have too many though and no budget for a new one ( for live use that is).

Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on August 15, 2019, 04:14:06 PM
Wow - I really appreciate all the responses guys.....

Steve - the AA mics intrigue me - I left a message for Dave.

Tim - Renting wouldn't work for me. I like to go into my room and sing when I feel like it - no structure.
Thanks for the heads up on the mate with the studio in NC .. Graham is about an hour from me.

Actually as I was typing, Dave got back to me. NICE guy! We had a long chat about all kinds of things - some even were related to music - LOL!!
I am thoroughly interested in the CM47 from our chat.

The AA mics are great, and so are many others that have been mentioned. The real question is which is best for YOU. Believe me you can spend the rest of your life reading forums, reviews, listening to samples, but the only way you will learn how a mic works with your voice is to try it. More than once I've purchased a mic after tons of research only to find it wasn't quite what I expected, not that it was a bad mic, but not the sound I was looking for.

If you don't have a studio nearby where you can try a bunch of mics in a shoot out, then find a dealer that will let you order a few mics and then return the ones you don't want. Dave at AA makes clones of classic mics. Since you are already talking to him, see if he will let you try a few models and just keep the one you like.

Warren Dent at Zen Pro audio is a great dealer who stocks tons of high end mics. I know for a fact he will let you order a few models and return the ones you don't like. Warren is a great guy and actually close to you (South Carolina). He has a nice studio and sells every mic that has been listed in this thread. I would seriously consider trying to set up a time where you could go to his studio and try a few mics, then drive home with the one you like best.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 04:23:38 PM
The AA mics are great, and so are many others that have been mentioned. The real question is which is best for YOU. Believe me you can spend the rest of your life reading forums, reviews, listening to samples, but the only way you will learn how a mic works with your voice is to try it. More than once I've purchased a mic after tons of research only to find it wasn't quite what I expected, not that it was a bad mic, but not the sound I was looking for.

If you don't have a studio nearby where you can try a bunch of mics in a shoot out, then find a dealer that will let you order a few mics and then return the ones you don't want. Dave at AA makes clones of classic mics. Since you are already talking to him, see if he will let you try a few models and just keep the one you like.

Warren Dent at Zen Pro audio is a great dealer who stocks tons of high end mics. I know for a fact he will let you order a few models and return the ones you don't like. Warren is a great guy and actually close to you (South Carolina). He has a nice studio and sells every mic that has been listed in this thread. I would seriously consider trying to set up a time where you could go to his studio and try a few mics, then drive home with the one you like best.

Good advice Mike - thanks. I should try some before I make the investment. Maybe a trip to SC is in order.....
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Steve Crump on August 15, 2019, 04:33:01 PM
Warren Dent at Zen Pro audio is a great dealer. [/quote]


I will attest to this, I purchased several pcs from Warren Dent years ago and he was great to deal with and has tons of real world experience with the equipment, more than helpful.




Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: brian maddox on August 15, 2019, 05:22:39 PM
Good advice Mike - thanks. I should try some before I make the investment. Maybe a trip to SC is in order.....

Conveniently, Zen is only a short 2 hour drive NORTH for me.  I might be taking the same advice.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 05:27:25 PM
Have you sung on a Sennheiser 441 ?  It is a dynamic classic.  I keep one in my kit for special occasions.

I haven't Mal. I must get out more - LOL.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 05:27:48 PM
Conveniently, Zen is only a short 2 hour drive NORTH for me.  I might be taking the same advice.

I checked - well over 4 for me...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Robert Lofgren on August 15, 2019, 06:01:30 PM
I have the tlm103, but I’d like to recommend the shure akg d12vr or the shure sm7b.

The sm7b need a very good preamp since its output is quite low and lesser preamps tends to disclose its inherent noise floor. A cloudlifter will certainly help if your preamp can’t provide enough high gain that is noise free.

The d12vr is a workhorse that sounds really great and can be used for many things other than vox, so it is not a one-trick pony.

A great mic doesn’t need to be $1k...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mike Caldwell on August 15, 2019, 06:11:38 PM
Have you sung on a Sennheiser 441 ?  It is a dynamic classic.  I keep one in my kit for special occasions.

I have a mint 441, last time I used it was for Fleetwood Mac tribute
a few years ago. It really did sound good live!
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Rick Earl on August 15, 2019, 08:09:53 PM
A lot of great advise here.

Warren at Zen also has his Clipalator https://www.zenproaudio.com/clipalator (https://www.zenproaudio.com/clipalator)
which helps narrow down the field a bit.  Warren is very knowledgeable and customer service oriented.

THE AEA R84 is basically the same motor as in the R44, but in a more affordable model. (Less labor to build) still a great sounding mic.  I own a pair of those as well as a 44.  If the ribbons interest you the AEA N series N22 and N8 are also great mics, the N22 being voiced for close work. I also have a KU5A, which so far has been a wonderful mic in all situations (You can tell I am a fan of ribbons).

I am also a firm believer in the Shure KSM32 -  It is a great mic that doesn't get a lot of attention.  Many people think it has to be a German condenser to sound good, but the 32 does the lion's share of work for me when it comes to a LDC.

School is ramping up, so it's a bit busy, but we could probably arrange a time for you to come audition a few once we settle in, we are not too far at it would be a good experience for our student engineers as well.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 15, 2019, 08:48:15 PM
A lot of great advise here.

Warren at Zen also has his Clipalator https://www.zenproaudio.com/clipalator (https://www.zenproaudio.com/clipalator)
which helps narrow down the field a bit.  Warren is very knowledgeable and customer service oriented.

THE AEA R84 is basically the same motor as in the R44, but in a more affordable model. (Less labor to build) still a great sounding mic.  I own a pair of those as well as a 44.  If the ribbons interest you the AEA N series N22 and N8 are also great mics, the N22 being voiced for close work. I also have a KU5A, which so far has been a wonderful mic in all situations (You can tell I am a fan of ribbons).

I am also a firm believer in the Shure KSM32 -  It is a great mic that doesn't get a lot of attention.  Many people think it has to be a German condenser to sound good, but the 32 does the lion's share of work for me when it comes to a LDC.

School is ramping up, so it's a bit busy, but we could probably arrange a time for you to come audition a few once we settle in, we are not too far at it would be a good experience for our student engineers as well.

Oh yes you are only an hour away from me. That would be great Rick - let me know when would work.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Tim McCulloch on August 15, 2019, 10:13:19 PM
Have you sung on a Sennheiser 441 ?  It is a dynamic classic.  I keep one in my kit for special occasions.

The 441 can be a very flattering microphone but it's got a tighter pattern than many singers are accustomed to.  It was a big part of Stevie Nicks live sound, IMHO.

@debbie - the Shure KSM32 or KSM44 (rent-able, watch on FleaBay, etc) are fairly neutral and may be useful live (I like the 32 for "single mic" stuff).  Worth giving a listen.

Sennheiser's MK4 is also a nice mic especially for the price.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: brian maddox on August 15, 2019, 10:46:51 PM
The 441 can be a very flattering microphone but it's got a tighter pattern than many singers are accustomed to.  It was a big part of Stevie Nicks live sound, IMHO.

....

Elton John used one for quite a while too, mostly because his wedges were HORRIFYINGLY Loud and the Mic pattern helped achieve some of that.  But yeah, i lasted like 15 seconds in that zone of death doing a "check one two" before i was  done...

/end swerve
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mike Caldwell on August 15, 2019, 11:22:51 PM
Elton John used one for quite a while too, mostly because his wedges were HORRIFYINGLY Loud and the Mic pattern helped achieve some of that.  But yeah, i lasted like 15 seconds in that zone of death doing a "check one two" before i was  done...

/end swerve

I remember seeing a EJ concert video and the entire drum kit was micd with 441's maybe short of the kick.
Never trusted my 441 around anyone hitting things sticks.

Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Chris Grimshaw on August 16, 2019, 01:58:10 AM
Question: how well-treated is the recording room?

The reason I ask is this: an untreated room will rule out a lot of candidates. The big old ribbons, side-address large-diaphragm condensers etc where you'll be a foot or two away will all pick up plenty of "room sound", and that's unlikely to be a good thing.

Following that, I'd be looking for mics that you can use fairly close-up. An RE20 or a KSM8 would mean the proximity effect doesn't change as you move.

After those, there's a huge selection of mics that can be used close-up but will include some (varying according to movement) proximity effect. We are, however, pretty much back at "best live vocal mics".

Following that, what about using one of your stage mics? If you've only got SM58s I'd try to find something nicer, but I've found my Beyer TG-X930 records rather well. It should, too - it has the same small-diaphragm condenser capsule as the MC930.


Chris
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mal Brown on August 16, 2019, 03:21:52 AM
I have a mint 441, last time I used it was for Fleetwood Mac tribute
a few years ago. It really did sound good live!

Try it as a drum overhead, 421 on the kick - for a small tight jazz kit it is very musical.  For sometime it was the Stevie Nicks mic as well as the Elton John mic...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 16, 2019, 11:17:04 AM
Question: how well-treated is the recording room?

The reason I ask is this: an untreated room will rule out a lot of candidates. The big old ribbons, side-address large-diaphragm condensers etc where you'll be a foot or two away will all pick up plenty of "room sound", and that's unlikely to be a good thing.

Following that, I'd be looking for mics that you can use fairly close-up. An RE20 or a KSM8 would mean the proximity effect doesn't change as you move.

After those, there's a huge selection of mics that can be used close-up but will include some (varying according to movement) proximity effect. We are, however, pretty much back at "best live vocal mics".

Following that, what about using one of your stage mics? If you've only got SM58s I'd try to find something nicer, but I've found my Beyer TG-X930 records rather well. It should, too - it has the same small-diaphragm condenser capsule as the MC930.


Chris

Room is not treated as a studio would be but I have the mic and shield positioned in front of a wall and in a spot in the room that gives me a sound I like - BUT yes if I were to step back and 'allow' the room sound in, it wouldn't work for me. I stand pretty close to the mic.
Stage mics -  the KSM8 and E935 are probably my nicest.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Chris Doyle on August 16, 2019, 01:24:35 PM
Check out the C1 from Miktek. Great sounding mic, retails for $600.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 16, 2019, 02:13:43 PM
Check out the C1 from Miktek. Great sounding mic, retails for $600.

Just did some reading up on the Miktek series. U.S. made - some very good reviews out there...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: lindsay Dean on August 16, 2019, 02:20:36 PM
The thing about any vocal mic is it so user dependent. until you actually try out each Mic  basically it's going to be hard to decide.
Very much like picking a mate, you don't know what you want exactly but you know when you've found it.

Just order every Mic you think you like on Amazon and try them out for 30 days and then return the ones you don't like he he he😳👍
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: brian maddox on August 16, 2019, 03:08:21 PM
...

Just order every Mic you think you like on Amazon and try them out for 30 days and then return the ones you don't like he he he😳👍

At Kohl's apparently...

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/07/08/kohls-stores-now-accepting-amazon-returns-no-box-required/1629966001/ (https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/07/08/kohls-stores-now-accepting-amazon-returns-no-box-required/1629966001/)
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Dave Scarlett on August 16, 2019, 10:34:00 PM
I ended up buying the Lewitt LCT440 as i liked it price vs performance. I still would have loved the LCT540 Subzero. Name due to it ultra low noise floor.

https://www.lewitt-audio.com/microphones/lct-recording/lct-540-subzero

Really, really worth looking at Debbie. An amazing microphone
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 18, 2019, 03:31:21 PM
I had written a post yesterday which I thought I posted but apparently not.
So I will re type what i remember.....

Thank you all so much for the suggestions - some of which I might not have even considered.... this is starting to feel like a "Careful what you wish for" situation - SO many good choices and most very affordable it seems...

I do realize that a microphone choice is a personal thing and I would like nothing more than to line up 20 - all in my price range - and just go for it checking each and very one of them.....but that probably isn't going to happen.

I also should consider that I won't be the only one using it - my initial consideration  is my own voice but it would be nice to find a mic that not only gives me what I want but could be used well for other applications- acoustic guitar etc...

Anyway, if any 'local' peeps could help me in any way just try out a few mics, I would really appreciate it.
If that doesn't happen, I might go ahead and purchase a few from one source and return the ones I don't want as suggested - I don't like doing that but it might be my only choice...
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 19, 2019, 01:04:17 PM
Neko Case apparently prefers an AT4050 for studio vocals over whatever high $$$ Neumanns or anything else she's encountered.  How much do you sound or want to sound like Neko Case?

I like Neko Case - she has a higher voice than me but nice to know she would choose a AT4050 over anything else....
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 20, 2019, 11:21:49 AM
I so want to pull the trigger on a new mic but I have no easy way to compare. I listened to a couple of shoot outs online between the AT 4050 (Casey's suggestion) and U87, C414 etc and it holds up really well for the money .......but I could spend hours and hours listening to OTHER peoples voices, acoustic guitars and drums through all these different mics and still not know how MY voice sounds through them.
Tim, are you still willing to get in contact with your friend in Graham?
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Chris Grimshaw on August 20, 2019, 12:04:51 PM
Room is not treated as a studio would be but I have the mic and shield positioned in front of a wall and in a spot in the room that gives me a sound I like - BUT yes if I were to step back and 'allow' the room sound in, it wouldn't work for me. I stand pretty close to the mic.
Stage mics -  the KSM8 and E935 are probably my nicest.

I'd put those mics on a stand each and see what you think, before pulling the trigger on anything else. Lots of great records have been made with dynamic mics, and the condensers don't need to be expensive, either - Amy Winehouse's Back to Black album used an SE2200a on vocals. You can get a few of those for $1000.

GAS is fun to have (mine has struck in the mixing desk direction), but I think it's important to assess whether the current equipment can do the job before making a purchase.

FWIW, if you're looking for the mic to do double-duty and work on-stage, I'd look into small-diaphragm condensers.

Chris
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 20, 2019, 12:13:52 PM
I'd put those mics on a stand each and see what you think, before pulling the trigger on anything else. Lots of great records have been made with dynamic mics, and the condensers don't need to be expensive, either - Amy Winehouse's Back to Black album used an SE2200a on vocals. You can get a few of those for $1000.

GAS is fun to have (mine has struck in the mixing desk direction), but I think it's important to assess whether the current equipment can do the job before making a purchase.

FWIW, if you're looking for the mic to do double-duty and work on-stage, I'd look into small-diaphragm condensers.

Chris

Good point - I'll try them for sure as I already own them. SDC wise I have AT4041's that I use for drum O/H and I really like them.

A few years ago - in a pinch I recorded a friend - male with raspy vocals - through an Audix F15 and I was VERY pleasantly surprised at the results - so it is possible to have some success with microphones that are not necessarily designed for this purpose.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on August 20, 2019, 01:36:15 PM
Good point - I'll try them for sure as I already own them. SDC wise I have AT4041's that I use for drum O/H and I really like them.

A few years ago - in a pinch I recorded a friend - male with raspy vocals - through an Audix F15 and I was VERY pleasantly surprised at the results - so it is possible to have some success with microphones that are not necessarily designed for this purpose.

Yes, by all means, try ALL the mics you currently own.....you may be surprised. The RE20 is a great vocal mic (Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, and others have used it), it is also commonly used as a kick drum mic! So don't look at your kick drum, overhead, guitar cab, what ever mic and think "this could never work for vocals". Try it, you might find just what you're looking for.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 20, 2019, 02:31:43 PM
Yes, by all means, try ALL the mics you currently own.....you may be surprised. The RE20 is a great vocal mic (Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, and others have used it), it is also commonly used as a kick drum mic! So don't look at your kick drum, overhead, guitar cab, what ever mic and think "this could never work for vocals". Try it, you might find just what you're looking for.

Will do!!
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on August 20, 2019, 02:33:25 PM
I see that Zen sells WA (Warm Audio) mics - all moded it seems. Basically Neumann clones again I think. I was reading about them too yesterday and the reviews are really good. Has anyone heard them?
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on August 20, 2019, 04:03:38 PM
I see that Zen sells WA (Warm Audio) mics - all moded it seems. Basically Neumann clones again I think. I was reading about them too yesterday and the reviews are really good. Has anyone heard them?

Warren (Zen Audio owner, and the guy who answers the phone) is a straight shooter, no BS. Call him up and ask him his opinion...he might even have clips posted.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Richard Penrose on August 21, 2019, 05:50:49 AM
Hi Debbie,

Most of my work is studio based. I’ve had a whole bunch of mics here to try and do a/b’s on a range of vocalists. The list of mics that I’ve used are :-

Peluso 2247
Brauner Phantom
Gefell M1030
SE Gemini2
Neumann TLM102
AKG C414 b-uls
Shure KSM32
SE2200T
Audio Technica AT4040
JZ V11
Miktek MK300

However, the standout mic that I’ve used is the Vanguard V13. This is a 9 pattern tube mic that really excels on a wide range of vocalists and is my first choice on every vocal and voice over I’ve recently done here. The other mic that has stood out is the Miktek MK-300 which is an unbelievably cheap 3 pattern transformer balanced mic. I preferred this mic to most of the the other more expensive mics and surprisingly they only cost £179 in Europe!! This sounds brighter than the V13 but not harsh like the SE mics and Neumann TLM102. The Shure KSM32 and JZ V11 are also nice mics but to be honest, my V13 pretty much does all the vocal jobs here now.

Vanguard offer a free 14 day trial of their mics so may be an option to listen to them yourself.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on September 19, 2019, 10:34:59 PM
As an update.... I was able to borrow an AT4050 from a friend of a friend to try out and I LOVED it. It sounded really good with my voice so I purchased a used one on eBay in mint condition - I won the auction.
I haven't used it to record yet but I am very excited for my next project. Thanks so much for all your suggestions everyone.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Tim Halligan on September 19, 2019, 11:13:34 PM

Tim, are you still willing to get in contact with your friend in Graham?

Sure.

Are you looking to do a mic shootout there, or are you going to track your vocals there?

Cheers,
Tim
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Tracy Garner on September 20, 2019, 12:25:26 PM
Neko Case apparently prefers an AT4050 for studio vocals over whatever high $$$ Neumanns or anything else she's encountered.  How much do you sound or want to sound like Neko Case?

I just let someone borrow a AT4033 (female voice) who is recording her book for Audible. I chose it because it doesn't need to be close mic'd and I prefer it over a broadcast or standard "studio vocal" mic for the task.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on September 20, 2019, 01:33:45 PM
As an update.... I was able to borrow an AT4050 from a friend of a friend to try out and I LOVED it. It sounded really good with my voice so I purchased a used one on eBay in mint condition - I won the auction.
I haven't used it to record yet but I am very excited for my next project. Thanks so much for all your suggestions everyone.

Audio Technica makes some great mics. The AT4050 is a bargain even new. A used one in mint condition would be a steel!
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on September 20, 2019, 04:39:50 PM
Audio Technica makes some great mics. The AT4050 is a bargain even new. A used one in mint condition would be a steel!

Hey Mark - thanks.... yes I paid $326.50 incl shipping. It came with the nice AT shock mount and in a foam padded camera case. The guy really looked after it. He contacted me after the auction and had some really nice things to say about the mic - he didn't want to sell it but went deaf in one ear suddenly. It really is mint and I couldn't be happier.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Helge A Bentsen on September 21, 2019, 10:38:47 AM
+1 on AT4050, great mic.
I’m using it combined with a Royer 121 on guitar amps.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Jordan Wolf on September 23, 2019, 10:59:31 AM
...I purchased a used one on eBay in mint condition...

I really like that mic - I even own the live, handheld version - the A/T AE5400 (https://www.audio-technica.com/cms/wired_mics/6c15480b96d121b7/index.html) - and it sounds wonderful on most female vocals.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 02, 2019, 01:51:43 PM
Oh, and since you do lots of live work, I recently picked up a MBHO MBD 219 C - hand held dynamic mic that sounds stunning. About $350 new. I bought it for live work but tried it out in the studio the other day for a scratch track and was impressed. Here is a youtube video with the lead singer using the MBHO MBD 219 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0TVNrCTsxY
So it continues..... I played the video you linked to of Yori Swart to my husband and he LOVED it. He has gone ahead and purchased everything he can find on iTunes that is available and then went and purchased the MBHO MBD 219SC too! It arrived today.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on October 02, 2019, 02:46:05 PM
So it continues..... I played the video you linked to of Yori Swart to my husband and he LOVED it. He has gone ahead and purchased everything he can find on iTunes that is available and then went and purchased the MBHO MBD 219SC too! It arrived today.

Debbie you are going to love that mic! Monday my band (female lead vocal) wanted to record some of our new tunes but we just wanted to play "live"....no layering tracks and no iso booths. So I set us up all in the same room and placed the singer a bit away from the drums using the MBHO 219C for her vocals (BTW I have the cardioid....did you get the supper cardioid?). Not only did it sound great, but there was almost no drum bleed into her vocal mic!

Here is a short clip of the final mix...again this is "live" (in my studio), no overdubs. This was recorded "old school" - analog desk, analog outboard, we just used the DAW as a tape machine...nothing nothing done in post other than levels/eq/comp (using the console, not the DAW)....so should be a good representation of what you will get on stage. I can send you the same clip with the vocal soloed if you like. Vocal had console eq (A&H GSR24M), 1176 rev F comp, TC M3000 reverb and TC M-One for delays. Orion 32 converter.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/c3wdctn7z0nu397/mic%20sample.mp3?dl=0

Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 02, 2019, 03:04:28 PM
Debbie you are going to love that mic! Monday my band (female lead vocal) wanted to record some of our new tunes but we just wanted to play "live"....no layering tracks and no iso booths. So I set us up all in the same room and placed the singer a bit away from the drums using the MBHO 219C for her vocals (BTW I have the cardioid....did you get the supper cardioid?). Not only did it sound great, but there was almost no drum bleed into her vocal mic!

Here is a short clip of the final mix...again this is "live" (in my studio), no overdubs. This was recorded "old school" - analog desk, analog outboard, we just used the DAW as a tape machine...nothing nothing done in post other than levels/eq/comp (using the console, not the DAW)....so should be a good representation of what you will get on stage. I can send you the same clip with the vocal soloed if you like. Vocal had console eq (A&H GSR24M), 1176 rev F comp, TC M3000 reverb and TC M-One for delays. Orion 32 converter.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/c3wdctn7z0nu397/mic%20sample.mp3?dl=0

It is just so clear but warm too! Nice job on the recording considering that is dry!.....
It is just so clear but warm too! I tried it a little while ago and it is pretty amazing.
I LOVE the fact it is so clear without being condenser - maybe it won't pick up every single movement I make when I record - LOL.
Later I will try it up against a Shure KMS8 and a Senny E935. Then I'll check it out against my new AT4050....
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 02, 2019, 04:55:56 PM
BTW I have the cardioid....did you get the supper cardioid?

Yes I got the super cardioid...

I can safely say that MBHO doesn't  believe in putting much effort into design or presentation!!  We got it new from a reputable dealer ( the only one in the US I believe) so I know its legit but I was surprised when I opened the package.
There is no outer box, just an ugly looking gray plastic case with light blue catches. Inside, no dust covers on the items - just the mic in one slot and a mic clip in the other ( the other slot being another mic cutout so the clip doesn't even fit well.) The mic itself is a bit odd looking to be honest and quite lightweight.
Probably why they can charge so little.......
However, The sound of the mic more than makes up for it and I'd rather have my money there than in case candy.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on October 02, 2019, 05:12:05 PM
Yes I got the super cardioid...

I can safely say that MBHO doesn't  believe in putting much effort into design or presentation!!  We got it new from a reputable dealer ( the only one in the US I believe) so I know its legit but I was surprised when I opened the package.
There is no outer box, just an ugly looking gray plastic case with light blue catches. Inside, no dust covers on the items - just the mic in one slot and a mic clip in the other ( the other slot being another mic cutout so the clip doesn't even fit well.) The mic itself is a bit odd looking to be honest and quite lightweight.
Probably why they can charge so little.......
However, The sound of the mic more than makes up for it and I'd rather have my money there than in case candy.

Yeah, it is surprisingly lightweight, but built like a tank. And as you say, the sound is amazing.

I actually like the plastic case with foam - it does a perfect job protecting the mic and yet doesn't attract unwanted attention. I agree the lack of cutout for the mic clip is a bit odd.

I'm assuming you bought yours the same place I did - the only place in the US that sells them. BTW the dealer is fantastic - an engineer got right back to me when I had a support issue. I had emailed them with a problem, then emailed again to say I resolved the problem (one of those mystery problems where an item fails to work, and after double checking everything you open it up, find nothing wrong inside, put it back together, and then suddenly it works). The next morning they called me first thing just to make sure everything was fine. Their engineer had even taken a unit apart just to verify what I saw and that nothing was amiss. I was impressed.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 02, 2019, 05:28:06 PM
Yeah, it is surprisingly lightweight, but built like a tank. And as you say, the sound is amazing.

I actually like the plastic case with foam - it does a perfect job protecting the mic and yet doesn't attract unwanted attention. I agree the lack of cutout for the mic clip is a bit odd.

I'm assuming you bought yours the same place I did - the only place in the US that sells them. BTW the dealer is fantastic - an engineer got right back to me when I had a support issue. I had emailed them with a problem, then emailed again to say I resolved the problem (one of those mystery problems where an item fails to work, and after double checking everything you open it up, find nothing wrong inside, put it back together, and then suddenly it works). The next morning they called me first thing just to make sure everything was fine. Their engineer had even taken a unit apart just to verify what I saw and that nothing was amiss. I was impressed.

That's nice to know Mark. I have used the dealer once before a few years ago but just for some small bits and pieces. Yes they are the only ones that come up on the MBHO website. I still can't believe the price of this mic.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 02, 2019, 05:54:30 PM


I actually like the plastic case with foam - it does a perfect job protecting the mic and yet doesn't attract unwanted attention. I agree the lack of cutout for the mic clip is a bit odd.


Speaking of mic clips.... I see the one on the website looks gray in color and made to compliment the mic. I received a black K&M.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on October 02, 2019, 05:58:22 PM
Speaking of mic clips.... I see the one on the website looks gray in color and made to compliment the mic. I received a black K&M.

Same here. Though I don't see a clip pictured on the mfg web site...only the dealer site, which is the same black K&M we both appear to have.
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 02, 2019, 06:27:25 PM
Same here. Though I don't see a clip pictured on the mfg web site...only the dealer site, which is the same black K&M we both appear to have.

Not very clear but this is the page I was referring to...

http://www.mbho.de/pdf/mbd219.pdf
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Dave Guilford on October 02, 2019, 09:33:39 PM
Md441
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Mark Scrivener on October 03, 2019, 12:51:38 AM
Not very clear but this is the page I was referring to...

http://www.mbho.de/pdf/mbd219.pdf

Ahh yes....that does look a bit nicer....has a part number too....Wonder how easy it would be to order?
Title: Re: Best Recording Mic female vocal ≈$1000
Post by: Debbie Dunkley on October 04, 2019, 10:46:14 AM
Ahh yes....that does look a bit nicer....has a part number too....Wonder how easy it would be to order?

It does look nice. Let me know if you find out.

I did a shootout last night between the MBHO MBD219, Shure KSM8, Sennheiser E935 and the AT4050.

Both Chris and I talked and sang through each one set flat no FX with gains adjusted for an even playing field.

Our findings:
Of all the mics in the shoot out, Chris and I prefer his voice through the Shure KSM8. The MBHO has far too much low end response for his voice - pretty boomy actually. Of course I am pretty sure it would have been easy to EQ to suit but wanted to stay flat for the sake of this comparison.
However, I can see why the MBHO is favored by gals - MY voice sounds GREAT through it.
When I spoke into the other mics first and then moved to the MBHO, it made me jump - the difference was dramatic. That low end enhancement is warm and rich which really thickens up a female voice and kind of fills in the spaces that sound hollow sometimes with the female voice but it still retains the crispness and mids.  Ironic considering Chris wanted the mic so badly for himself...... oops
The AT4050 by the way still has most clarity and actually sounds really good with Chris's voice - probably better than mine. Lots of 'air'.
The Sennheiser has the least low end but other than that it is VERY similar sounding to the KSM8 - nice and clean. Chris sometimes uses it live instead of the Shure just to switch things up. The Senny to me doesn't sound quite as scooped as the KSM8.
Bottom line: The MBHO is worth every penny and I am excited to see how it fares in the wild...