Folks,
Before I begin- I am relatively new to the Pro Sound World, and I dont do this for a living... yet. Once upon a time, I worked in FM Radio as talent, production and techie.
Now- I own a Studio Projects C1 LDC mic, and a C4 SDC kit.
I use the C1 for voiceover, and vocals, and the C4's have been used as live recording ambience mics (ORTF, XY), overhead XY for small Chamber Ensemble, and sometimes individually for mic'ing acoustic guitars.
A C4 pair with omni capsules in ORTF formation gave me a marvelous airy expansive, and yet intimate sound. (The plates and forks and glasses clinking faintly in the background of an acoustic Coffeehouse set)
I have worked with various Neumans before from radio, and I always found them a little tubby-sounding on announcers.
To me, if I can't trust my ears, I can't trust very much. On that basis, I really like the SP mics, because they have given me such a consistently pleasing sound.
And for what they cost, there is not a better deal in pro mics anywhere, IMNSHO. Forget the name appeal and brand cults... I LOVE 'em!
Another well-kept secret is the Samson C01, which really kicks ass for live vocals. EVERY vocalist at my coffeehouse has gushed about the way they sound, and the great sensitivity allows me to place them farther away, so the talent feels much less crowded. They are equally lovely when micing acoustic guitars. While I would not normally use LDC's in a live open-mic venue, the $80.00 price tag makes them practically "expendable," and besides, if they ever crap out, you can always use them to hammer nails or subdue unruly patrons. The silly, blindingly-bright blue LED is easily tamed with a snip of masking tape, if the vocalist does not wish to wear sunglasses.
I would love to hear any comments based on actual experience and comparisons to other units.
Thanks!
