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R/E/P => R/E/P Archives => Budget? Budget? We Don't Got No Steekin' Budjet => Topic started by: Cable Guy on August 17, 2007, 05:39:37 PM

Title: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Cable Guy on August 17, 2007, 05:39:37 PM
ADK A6 has really set the bar for condenser microphones under the $500 price point.

Being big believers in getting the sound correct before it hits the hard drive is why we chose to try out the new A6. It was absolutely “neutral” in tone and texture. We used the A6 on acoustic guitars, djembes, vocals and various other instruments in our studio and this is the first mic that was well suited for every task. It was absolutely astonishing how well it captured all the little nuances with great detail, clarity and without adding any artifacts to the sound source.

We also found that the A6 had a very low noise floor. When recording, the A6 was transparent when tracking vocals and softer acoustic sounds. This made recording and tracking these instruments a pleasure. It was so nice to finally set up one mic and be able to record with the confidence that “what you hear is what you get!” At Accusound Cable we strive for that same pin point accuracy and take the same approach in designing and manufacturing our products for the working professional.

If you’re only able to purchase one condenser microphone to handle many different recording applications, we recommend that you try an ADK A6. The company and it founders are passionate about sound and it shows
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Etch-A-Sketch on August 17, 2007, 07:29:53 PM
Cable Guy wrote on Fri, 17 August 2007 14:39

ADK A6 has really set the bar for condenser microphones under the $500 price point.

Being big believers in getting the sound correct before it hits the hard drive is why we chose to try out the new A6. It was absolutely ?neutral? in tone and texture. We used the A6 on acoustic guitars, djembes, vocals and various other instruments in our studio and this is the first mic that was well suited for every task. It was absolutely astonishing how well it captured all the little nuances with great detail, clarity and without adding any artifacts to the sound source.

We also found that the A6 had a very low noise floor. When recording, the A6 was transparent when tracking vocals and softer acoustic sounds. This made recording and tracking these instruments a pleasure. It was so nice to finally set up one mic and be able to record with the confidence that ?what you hear is what you get!? At Accusound Cable we strive for that same pin point accuracy and take the same approach in designing and manufacturing our products for the working professional.

If you?re only able to purchase one condenser microphone to handle many different recording applications, we recommend that you try an ADK A6. The company and it founders are passionate about sound and it shows



Thanks for the tip.  Wanna send me a couple for free so I can see for myself? Wink



Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Cable Guy on August 17, 2007, 08:05:40 PM
Etch-A-Sketch,

I'd like to send you a couple of mics, but the A6's we purchased, we're keeping! Very Happy
I think Pro Audio Toys sells the A-6 for around $249.00. It's well worth trying one out.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: ShakesTheClown on August 18, 2007, 09:02:16 PM
Kinda reads like an generic "pro audio review" rather a stoked audio geek letting everyone in on a new secret.

Could almost be any product.

But that's just me, and I'm nobody.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 18, 2007, 09:57:33 PM
It could very well be an excellent mic. It's made by 797 audio which is one of only three QUALITY manufacturers in China.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on August 19, 2007, 12:31:05 PM
Sounds like an advertisement to me.

Hope not.

I shall remain skeptical until proved wrong, however.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: rollmottle on August 19, 2007, 06:34:10 PM
coincidentally, an ADK banner ad is now in the rotation at the top.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Hank Alrich on August 19, 2007, 09:25:18 PM
Cable Guy wrote on Fri, 17 August 2007 14:39

ADK A6 has really set the bar for condenser microphones under the $500 price point.




The style in which you have written is in keeping with someone from a marketing department, and not from a serious recordist genuinely enthused by a product. But if you're for real and serious, I suggest that unless you've run that mic against the MCA SP-1, which costs forty bucks, you may have spent more than necessary for an inexpensive but decent condenser mic.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: vegas4ever on August 20, 2007, 09:26:32 AM
Hank Alrich wrote on Sun, 19 August 2007 20:25

Cable Guy wrote on Fri, 17 August 2007 14:39

ADK A6 has really set the bar for condenser microphones under the $500 price point.




The style in which you have written is in keeping with someone from a marketing department, and not from a serious recordist genuinely enthused by a product. But if you're for real and serious, I suggest that unless you've run that mic against the MCA SP-1, which costs forty bucks, you may have spent more than necessary for an inexpensive but decent condenser mic.



The real sleeper under $500 its the Karma K58 or the K35 period!

PS: hand made under $500 means: little kid in China getting $0.1 cents hour.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 20, 2007, 01:16:07 PM
Cable Guy has only made two posts and he sounds like he's trying to write in the style of a typical reviewer, which sets all our teeth on edge.  Without knowing what other mics he's familiar with, it's very hard to trust sweeping recommendations like this.

His comment about Larry and J.P. at ADK being passionate about sound is very true, but sweeping generalizations about the A6 (without any direct comparisons) makes it difficult to validate the conclusions he reached.  Let's compare it to the Joe Meeks JM 47, or the MXL 960, or the Studio Projects T3, or some of the other tube mics in that price range.  

That would help - a lot !!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: ShakesTheClown on August 20, 2007, 02:13:19 PM
I don't trust anyone who wants to sell me a 20' mic cable for $112.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: vegas4ever on August 20, 2007, 02:21:30 PM
ShakesTheClown wrote on Mon, 20 August 2007 13:13

I don't trust anyone who wants to sell me a 20' mic cable for $112.



Check this one out:

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=CRGRSP


yeah, Im buying 3 pairs HAHHAHAH LOLOLOL
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: sdelsolray on August 21, 2007, 12:18:19 AM
I'm not a reviewer, and I don't have a stake in ADK, but I had an ADK A6 mic here for a couple of weeks to evaluate.  I only record solo acoustic guitar.  It's a nice, neutral mic, similar in character to the Hamburg or Vienna, but it has a flatter response and is slightly smoother.  It is likely capable of many different uses, in a similar way to a AKG 414.  It's cardioid only.  Decent build.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 21, 2007, 12:47:31 AM
sdelsolray wrote on Mon, 20 August 2007 23:18

I'm not a reviewer, and I don't have a stake in ADK, but I had an ADK A6 mic here for a couple of weeks to evaluate.  I only record solo acoustic guitar.  It's a nice, neutral mic, similar in character to the Hamburg or Vienna, but it has a flatter response and is slightly smoother.  It is likely capable of many different uses, in a similar way to a AKG 414.  It's cardioid only.  Decent build.

Cool, that's the kind of review I like to read.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 21, 2007, 09:17:44 AM
vegas4ever wrote on Mon, 20 August 2007 11:21

ShakesTheClown wrote on Mon, 20 August 2007 13:13

I don't trust anyone who wants to sell me a 20' mic cable for $112.



Check this one out:

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=CRGRSP


yeah, Im buying 3 pairs HAHHAHAH LOLOLOL



I have those same cables shown. Cardas used to be close to me in Upland and they gave me several different samples to try out. When I went to return them, I discovered that they moved out of state. I really couldn't justify spending that kind of $ for little or no improvement in sound quality
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: vegas4ever on August 21, 2007, 01:21:41 PM
CHANCE wrote on Tue, 21 August 2007 08:17

vegas4ever wrote on Mon, 20 August 2007 11:21

ShakesTheClown wrote on Mon, 20 August 2007 13:13

I don't trust anyone who wants to sell me a 20' mic cable for $112.



Check this one out:

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=CRGRSP


yeah, Im buying 3 pairs HAHHAHAH LOLOLOL



I have those same cables shown. Cardas used to be close to me in Upland and they gave me several different samples to try out. When I went to return them, I discovered that they moved out of state. I really couldn't justify spending that kind of $ for little or no improvement in sound quality



Funny story, I have;

http://www.audioadvisor.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ANOV12

they were a gift from my "audiophile" uncle, there running my vintage Klipsch Heresys, sound good? maybe, any difference between them and the #10 generic cable I had? NO!

PS: I'll gave you $10 for your cables?
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 22, 2007, 09:42:18 AM
I'm not sure what this thread is leading towards. . . .

My grandfather had the idea that he could make home-brew beer that tasted better than what you could buy in a store (by all accounts it did).  

In 1998 ADK Co-founder Brian Hutchison and I had an idea that we could build "home-brew" microphones that sounded as good as the famous brand-name mics. . . . Whatever your persuasion, the idea of trying to make audio better - by even the smallest increments - is a passion for some people.  

I am not a big fan of expensive cable, but I am a fan making every element of the signal chain as good as possible.  The Accusound Cables impress me, however.  I have A/B'd them with Gotham, and others, and they do seem to have a certain "open-ness" that I find appealing. Like most things analog, it is a subtle nuance, and not a slap-you-upside-the-head thing . . .

So - if you are happy with your cable, no worries. If you love your current mic collection, that's great !!  

If you want to try some new and scientifically better analog gear, that's ok, too.

I drove our Begian Designer nuts for the past three years to make some dramtic strides on the Microphone Side.  

Ref the ADK A6 - All we can ask is that folks have an open mind and "Think with Your Ears".

I don't often get in the forums and tout my new gear.  I usually let the equipment speak for itself.

I do believe these new Belgium-Deigned Mics are worth taking the time to audition !!!


Then you be the judge if our three years brewing up these new flavors was worth it!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Ashermusic on August 22, 2007, 01:01:33 PM
I simply am not going to buy anymore Chinese gear, no matter what a bargain it is,  until they get serious about using their influence on Sudan to stop what is happening in Darfur.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: vegas4ever on August 22, 2007, 02:17:31 PM
Ashermusic wrote on Wed, 22 August 2007 12:01

I simply am not going to buy anymore Chinese gear, no matter what a bargain it is,  until they get serious about using their influence on Sudan to stop what is happening in Darfur.


http://ga6.org/campaign/china_embassy_petition/



Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: ShakesTheClown on August 22, 2007, 05:21:59 PM
I'm not saying that there is any reason to believe that the mic in question is not an incredible breakthrough in technology that is light years beyond anything else under $500.

Having purchased several microphones in that price range I have yet  to come across on as neutral and detail oriented as the one described in the first posters review, and I would certainly be inclined to purchase a pair if this were the case.

What I am saying is an open forum with respectable membership is not the place that I expect to be bombarded with "reviews" that are nothing more than thinly veiled commercials.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 23, 2007, 07:32:29 AM
I agree that Cable Guy's review wasn't very helpful for the reasons I previously mentioned, but the A-6 may be a good deal if it lives up to the hype.  With a street price of under $200, I'd still like to hear it against some known entities.  The only really neutral sounding mics I've heard out of China so far are the MXL V77 (sadly discontinued) and maybe the Studio Projects B1 (but it's more for instruments than vocals).

Having said that about neutral mics, the ADK Hamburg is one of those great darker mics that does wonderful things on the right voice.  I applaud Larry for saying the new mic should speak for itself, but with smaller manufacturers, getting the word out about a new product can be costly, and the Internet is a good vehicle for advertising new products.  The word (good or bad) can be spread quickly on forums such as this.

But spreading the word should have some guidelines.  If possible, compare new products to other similar products in the same price range, or against a known standard.  Tell people what you think the product might be best suited for.  Tell people the downside.  What didn't it work well on?

If smaller manufacturers want to take advantage of this new communication medium (print advertising is getting outrageous), they ought to make a few products available for review by people who have a good reputation in Internet forums.  They can bypass the usual network of professional reviewers and go directly to the users.  Yes, at some point, they will need the professional reviews, but a review on the Internet is an economically viable way for a manufacturer to get the ball rolling on a new product.

And Larry (and J.P.), you're always welcome here to discuss your new products, but realize that most people will be more impressed by the tech details, design philosophy, and uses, than they will in hearing hype about a product you make.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Ashermusic on August 23, 2007, 10:15:19 AM
vegas4ever wrote on Wed, 22 August 2007 19:17

Ashermusic wrote on Wed, 22 August 2007 12:01

I simply am not going to buy anymore Chinese gear, no matter what a bargain it is,  until they get serious about using their influence on Sudan to stop what is happening in Darfur.


http://ga6.org/campaign/china_embassy_petition/






Thanks, I already did that.

Harvey, I am not trying to put you on the spot as I respect you greatly, but do you care to state your position on this?
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 23, 2007, 10:55:56 AM
Thanks Harvey!

I didn't start this thread, a really well intentioned guy who builds Made in USA Accusound XLR Cable did.  

If he's (or I) aren't experienced in the protocols of posting, we'll certainly try to learn.

Long story short, I like his cables, and he likes our new mics.  I'd call that transparency, not conspiracy!!


The mandate for the A6 is simple - "if you had to be left on a desert island with a single mic" (under $300). the A6 is designed to cover the greatest amount of acoustic applications possible.

All the early Reviews and recent End-Users tell me the A6 exceeds expectations. So OK - I'm  proud of the Quartet of New Mics that JP has developed.  You can decide for yourself if that's hype or honest acclaim.

I typically say nothing online.  Once in a while I try to clarify something . . .  and usually wish that I hadn't !!!

Yet if you want comparisons, the A6 has 10dB more headroom than a U-87, and - so far - we've sold 300 A6 without a single return!

If you like the Hamburg Edition, the A6 is it's BIG Brother!!  

We've got a New factory (Not 797), a New capsule, New Belgian-Designed electronics. JP spent a month helping to set up the new factory (must have flown 15,000 miles!).  

At ADK we work diligently to try to make things sound better!

We can get Harvey an A6 and let him decide 'ears-on' as it were.


Until then, there's a review in September Recording Mag.


Thanks !!!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 23, 2007, 01:51:41 PM
Larry Villella wrote on Thu, 23 August 2007 10:55

Thanks Harvey!

I didn't start this thread, a really well intentioned guy who builds Made in USA Accusound XLR Cable did.  

If he's (or I) aren't experienced in the protocols of posting, we'll certainly try to learn.

Long story short, I like his cables, and he likes our new mics.  I'd call that transparency, not conspiracy!!


The mandate for the A6 is simple - "if you had to be left on a desert island with a single mic" (under $300). the A6 is designed to cover the greatest amount of acoustic applications possible.

All the early Reviews and recent End-Users tell me the A6 exceeds expectations. So OK - I'm  proud of the Quartet of New Mics that JP has developed.  You can decide for yourself if that's hype or honest acclaim.

I typically say nothing online.  Once in a while I try to clarify something . . .  and usually wish that I hadn't !!!

Yet if you want comparisons, the A6 has 10dB more headroom than a U-87, and - so far - we've sold 300 A6 without a single return!

If you like the Hamburg Edition, the A6 is it's BIG Brother!!  

We've got a New factory (Not 797), a New capsule, New Belgian-Designed electronics. JP spent a month helping to set up the new factory (must have flown 15,000 miles!).  

At ADK we work diligently to try to make things sound better!

We can get Harvey an A6 and let him decide 'ears-on' as it were.


Until then, there's a review in September Recording Mag.


Thanks !!!



SO,....is it great on TRUMPET!!!!?????
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 23, 2007, 02:22:37 PM
The answer is I don't know yet. The S-7 is a more likely candidate.

We've been working with Don Harris, Harris Brother's Horns, who just finished the John Tropea album with Steve Gadd.  Don is currently testing the S-7 for Trumpet and I hope to hear soon.

My instincts tell me a two mic set-up with a Ribbon and an S-7 would be very interesting . . .
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 23, 2007, 02:35:57 PM
Larry Villella wrote on Thu, 23 August 2007 14:22

The answer is I don't know yet. The S-7 is a more likely candidate.

We've been working with Don Harris, Harris Brother's Horns, who just finished the John Tropea album with Steve Gadd.  Don is currently testing the S-7 for Trumpet and I hope to hear soon.

My instincts tell me a two mic set-up with a Ribbon and an S-7 would be very interesting . . .


Larry:  Thanks....I'll stay tuned to see what he thinks of it...I had heard good things about the Hamburg, and this one might be even better.....? Smile
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 24, 2007, 10:14:42 AM
 Sad Sadly, I'm noticing a trend in all these so called "help forums"- seems like everyone is quick to scold, criticize, ostracize, bitch and moan, there will be 8 pages of bantering back and forth about who is right and who is wrong; yet, when you ask a simple question, such as "is this mic good on trumpet;" there is never any kind of half-useful answer....so, what is the usefulness of these forums.....????? Shocked  
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 24, 2007, 11:05:44 AM
Sadly, that's true, BUT, sometimes, we help.  It's a very subjective business, and the details often become very important.  Things like mic selection, placement and settings can change the sound drastically, so we're always looking for tips and tricks we can use to better our projects.

This forum has, as its premise, the idea that you can make very acceptable recordings without spending huge amounts of cash to do so. Klause's forum has a somewhat opposite view; Terry's forum is somewhere in the middle.  Perhaps if we take the best of each, and factor in our own unique situations, we will arrive at our own personal "truth".

For example, the sticky at the top of this forum doesn't contain any earth-shattering new revelations about microphones, but it (hopefully) will help people think about how a mic works and that will help them choose the right mic for the job.  

A few years ago, we had a spirited discussion about the role of mic preamps in the recording process, and we had a dozen of the major mic preamp designers here, discussing their preamp philosophy. It was an enlightening and historic thread.

And there's no simple answer as to what the best trumpet mic is for you, without hearing you play, in the room you're going to record in.  I can tell you some of the choices that have worked in the past for me, in my room, with the trumpet players I've recorded, but that's about it.  There's no one single perfect mic that works best for all trumpet players, just as there's no one perfect mic that will work every time on every singer.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: JP Gerard on August 24, 2007, 03:46:10 PM
CHANCE wrote on Sun, 19 August 2007 03:57

It could very well be an excellent mic. It's made by 797 audio which is one of only three QUALITY manufacturers in China.


And who told you that????? That's so fucking far for the truth it's laughable!!!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 24, 2007, 06:52:07 PM
Larry Villella wrote on Thu, 23 August 2007 07:55


We've got a New factory (Not 797), a New capsule, New Belgian-Designed electronics.

Thanks !!!




A few years ago, I purchased parts for my ADK mic, and when I recieved them, the 797 paperwork was still in the package

Later on I was purchasing mic parts (not for ADK) from them shortly after 797 was released from government control. I was in direct contact with several engineers on mic design.

Like Larry said ( after my post ) They've got a new factory. You will be happy to know "I stand corrected"
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 24, 2007, 06:56:23 PM
JP Gerard wrote on Fri, 24 August 2007 12:46

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 19 August 2007 03:57

It could very well be an excellent mic. It's made by 797 audio which is one of only three QUALITY manufacturers in China.


And who told you that????? That's so fucking far for the truth it's laughable!!!


I stated that "it could very well be an excellent mic" and if you think thats so far from the truth, thats your opinion. Mine sounds excellent.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 24, 2007, 07:13:07 PM
Ok, before we all get our panties in a wad, J.P. Gerard is one of the ADK designers.  Larry's sending me an A6 and an S7 to test.  If it sucks, I'll tell everybody; if they don't, I'll tell everybody that as well.  I'll also, with Larry's permission, send them to any regular here that wants to try them for a week.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 25, 2007, 08:55:49 AM
hargerst wrote on Fri, 24 August 2007 19:13

Ok, before we all get our panties in a wad, J.P. Gerard is one of the ADK designers.  Larry's sending me an A6 and an S7 to test.  If it sucks, I'll tell everybody; if they don't, I'll tell everybody that as well.  I'll also, with Larry's permission, send them to any regular here that wants to try them for a week.



Harvey:  Please try them on TRUMPET!!!! Very Happy
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 25, 2007, 11:50:16 AM
Trumpetman2 wrote on Sat, 25 August 2007 07:55

hargerst wrote on Fri, 24 August 2007 19:13

Ok, before we all get our panties in a wad, J.P. Gerard is one of the ADK designers.  Larry's sending me an A6 and an S7 to test.  If it sucks, I'll tell everybody; if they don't, I'll tell everybody that as well.  I'll also, with Larry's permission, send them to any regular here that wants to try them for a week.



Harvey:  Please try them on TRUMPET!!!! Very Happy

How 'bout instead, I send them to you after I test them, and you try it on YOUR TRUMPET in YOUR ROOM and you post a report?
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 25, 2007, 12:41:05 PM
All we can ask is evaluate the A6 / S-7 based on real-world analysis.

In a world glutted with cheap mics, our goal is to swim upstream.

JP and I spent 3 years with our PhD buddy in Australia trying
something entirely new (even radical) in our approach to building mics.  

Can something be Awesome And Affordable ???

Harvey - you guys decide!!!  I've stated my opinion.

After 40 years of collecting vintage condensers, I know that
I'm totally stoked about these new mics!! I think you will be too!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 25, 2007, 04:11:27 PM
hargerst wrote on Sat, 25 August 2007 11:50

Trumpetman2 wrote on Sat, 25 August 2007 07:55

hargerst wrote on Fri, 24 August 2007 19:13

Ok, before we all get our panties in a wad, J.P. Gerard is one of the ADK designers.  Larry's sending me an A6 and an S7 to test.  If it sucks, I'll tell everybody; if they don't, I'll tell everybody that as well.  I'll also, with Larry's permission, send them to any regular here that wants to try them for a week.



Harvey:  Please try them on TRUMPET!!!! Very Happy

How 'bout instead, I send them to you after I test them, and you try it on YOUR TRUMPET in YOUR ROOM and you post a report?



Harvey:  You got it!  But, do remember, I am NOT a pro engineer; I am a pro trumpet player, but that doesn't mean I am good at recording....although, I guess that will be the ultimate test of a good inexpensive mic- to see how a home recordist deals with it!  I do have a Great River M1NV and a Soundtracs console, so, we shall see....let me know when you want my address... Very Happy  
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: JP Gerard on August 26, 2007, 03:37:38 AM
Harvey, sorry for losing my temper here, I just wish folks would check the FACTS before posting, epspecially when they talk about someone else's products.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 26, 2007, 08:32:54 AM
No problem, J.P..  That's why these BBS's are important; a manufacturer can instantly and easily correct a mistaken fact.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 26, 2007, 06:15:20 PM
JP Gerard wrote on Sun, 26 August 2007 00:37

Harvey, sorry for losing my temper here, I just wish folks would check the FACTS before posting, epspecially when they talk about someone else's products.


Perhaps an apology is in order. Until AFTER I posted, I  ( as well as many others ) were under the assumption that 797 was still manufacturing your product. 797 is no doubt the best China has to offer. They make no "rebranded mics". They only make for OEM.  I conversed with Larry ( a true gentleman ) and he filled me in on the facts. I have some of your former mics (797), and like I stated they are excellent. I would love to share what Larry shared with me, but it is not my place to do that in an open forum, but I think it would be very benificial for you if the public was aware of all these wonderful changes in the ADK family.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: JP Gerard on August 27, 2007, 01:35:05 PM
CHANCE wrote on Mon, 27 August 2007 00:15

797 is no doubt the best China has to offer.


Not quite my opinion... Very Happy
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 27, 2007, 02:25:41 PM
There are four things that matter to me in building gear:


Tonality
Utility
Durability
Affordability

For ADK-Built products from San Diego, Seattle, or Shanghai,
we have the same mentality.  And Yes - Nine and a half years
later we've finally created a Great Space in two NEW Asian Factories.

Yet if ADK were made in Switzerland by the elves in the woods, with a chassis
made of unobtainium,  with black-hills gold diaphragms, and a phase-correcting
algorithm in the circuitry - it still only would matter if you like the sound of it!!!!!!


"Think with Your Ears!"
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Ashermusic on August 28, 2007, 12:04:08 PM
Larry Villella wrote on Mon, 27 August 2007 19:25

There are four things that matter to me in building gear:


Tonality
Utility
Durability
Affordability

For ADK-Built products from San Diego, Seattle, or Shanghai,
we have the same mentality.  And Yes - Nine and a half years
later we've finally created a Great Space in two NEW Asian Factories.

Yet if ADK were made in Switzerland by the elves in the woods, with a chassis
made of unobtainium,  with black-hills gold diaphragms, and a phase-correcting
algorithm in the circuitry - it still only would matter if you like the sound of it!!!!!!


"Think with Your Ears!"



Larry i am sorry to be the skunk at the picnic but is there really no alternatives to China to get good products at a decent price?

I really am reluctant to help subsidize their human rights practices not only in China but around the world.

I am  not going to lie and say that if comparable products are twice as much money that I advocate buying them but I certainly would pay i.e. $750 for a non-Chinese one to i.e. $500 for a Chinese made one.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Hank Alrich on August 28, 2007, 12:30:54 PM
Larry Villella wrote on Mon, 27 August 2007 11:25

There are four things that matter to me in building gear:


Tonality





That's not a word properly attached to mic performance. The word you wanted is "tone". From Wikipedia:

"Tonality is a system of music in which certain hierarchical pitch relationships are based on a key "center" or tonic. The term tonalit
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 28, 2007, 12:42:09 PM
Ashermusic wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 12:04

Larry Villella wrote on Mon, 27 August 2007 19:25

There are four things that matter to me in building gear:


Tonality
Utility
Durability
Affordability

For ADK-Built products from San Diego, Seattle, or Shanghai,
we have the same mentality.  And Yes - Nine and a half years
later we've finally created a Great Space in two NEW Asian Factories.

Yet if ADK were made in Switzerland by the elves in the woods, with a chassis
made of unobtainium,  with black-hills gold diaphragms, and a phase-correcting
algorithm in the circuitry - it still only would matter if you like the sound of it!!!!!!


"Think with Your Ears!"



Larry i am sorry to be the skunk at the picnic but is there really no alternatives to China to get good products at a decent price?

I really am reluctant to help subsidize their human rights practices not only in China but around the world.

I am  not going to lie and say that if comparable products are twice as much money that I advocate buying them but I certainly would pay i.e. $750 for a non-Chinese one to i.e. $500 for a Chinese made one.



I wish it were THAT easy - I would also rather pay $750 for an American-made product versus $500 for a Chinese-made one; the problem is that it is usually more like $2,000.00 for the American-made product, versus $300 for a similar Chinese made product!!!!!!  I am not THAT patriotic!!!! Very Happy
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Ashermusic on August 28, 2007, 12:53:38 PM
Trumpetman2 wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 17:42

Ashermusic wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 12:04

Larry Villella wrote on Mon, 27 August 2007 19:25

There are four things that matter to me in building gear:


Tonality
Utility
Durability
Affordability

For ADK-Built products from San Diego, Seattle, or Shanghai,
we have the same mentality.  And Yes - Nine and a half years
later we've finally created a Great Space in two NEW Asian Factories.

Yet if ADK were made in Switzerland by the elves in the woods, with a chassis
made of unobtainium,  with black-hills gold diaphragms, and a phase-correcting
algorithm in the circuitry - it still only would matter if you like the sound of it!!!!!!


"Think with Your Ears!"



Larry i am sorry to be the skunk at the picnic but is there really no alternatives to China to get good products at a decent price?

I really am reluctant to help subsidize their human rights practices not only in China but around the world.

I am  not going to lie and say that if comparable products are twice as much money that I advocate buying them but I certainly would pay i.e. $750 for a non-Chinese one to i.e. $500 for a Chinese made one.



I wish it were THAT easy - I would also rather pay $750 for an American-made product versus $500 for a Chinese-made one; the problem is that it is usually more like $2,000.00 for the American-made product, versus $300 for a similar Chinese made product!!!!!!  I am not THAT patriotic!!!! Very Happy



1. I understand that and believe me I am also forced to be very  price-conscious in my gear buying decisions. That is why I am seeking to get educated here on the economic realities.

2. Also, there are a lot of countries in the world besides the US and  China so are there not other alternatives to China that may not be so blatantly bad as China?

3. For me, it is not a matter of patriotism, it is a matter of humanity.

I hope we are human beings first and audio professionals second. I do not want to believe that in the audio community there is a prevailing attitude of "As long as I can get the gear I want at a price I want I don't give a damn about whether people suffer."

Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on August 28, 2007, 03:13:37 PM
Ashermusic wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 12:53

Trumpetman2 wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 17:42

Ashermusic wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 12:04

Larry Villella wrote on Mon, 27 August 2007 19:25

There are four things that matter to me in building gear:


Tonality
Utility
Durability
Affordability

For ADK-Built products from San Diego, Seattle, or Shanghai,
we have the same mentality.  And Yes - Nine and a half years
later we've finally created a Great Space in two NEW Asian Factories.

Yet if ADK were made in Switzerland by the elves in the woods, with a chassis
made of unobtainium,  with black-hills gold diaphragms, and a phase-correcting
algorithm in the circuitry - it still only would matter if you like the sound of it!!!!!!


"Think with Your Ears!"



Larry i am sorry to be the skunk at the picnic but is there really no alternatives to China to get good products at a decent price?

I really am reluctant to help subsidize their human rights practices not only in China but around the world.

I am  not going to lie and say that if comparable products are twice as much money that I advocate buying them but I certainly would pay i.e. $750 for a non-Chinese one to i.e. $500 for a Chinese made one.



I wish it were THAT easy - I would also rather pay $750 for an American-made product versus $500 for a Chinese-made one; the problem is that it is usually more like $2,000.00 for the American-made product, versus $300 for a similar Chinese made product!!!!!!  I am not THAT patriotic!!!! Very Happy



1. I understand that and believe me I am also forced to be very  price-conscious in my gear buying decisions. That is why I am seeking to get educated here on the economic realities.

2. Also, there are a lot of countries in the world besides the US and  China so are there not other alternatives to China that may not be so blatantly bad as China?

3. For me, it is not a matter of patriotism, it is a matter of humanity.

I hope we are human beings first and audio professionals second. I do not want to believe that in the audio community there is a prevailing attitude of "As long as I can get the gear I want at a price I want I don't give a damn about whether people suffer."




Well some of us are VERY busy working and can't really keep up we/world events....why don't you educate us and tell us what is going on in China that makes it so much worse than, say Korea, parts of Europe and some/most Central American countries....
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Ashermusic on August 28, 2007, 03:44:30 PM
Well some of us are VERY busy working and can't really keep up we/world events....why don't you educate us and tell us what is going on in China that makes it so much worse than, say Korea, parts of Europe and some/most Central American countries....
[/quote]

Assuming you are not being  sarcastic if you google it a lot comes up but for a starter:

http://www.hrw.org/reports/2003/sudan1103/26.htm


I am also busy working. A client is coming in in 15 minutes and we will be going for about 6-8 hours. That doesn't IMHO absolve me from trying to educate myself and to try to be part of a solution rather than part of the problem.

I am not criticizing or judging anyone here just trying to see how people feel about this and what our options are in this time when both economics and moral issues are difficult .
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 28, 2007, 04:50:45 PM
I might be wrong, and Larry or J can correct me, but I THINK ADK is only using some parts from China for their mics. Every person reading this is using something with parts from China. You can't get away from it. I am restoring a rare 60's Honda 250 scrambler. The crank was shot and couldn't be ground down because there are no undersize rods available. The Honda dealer had to order it from overseas. I figured Japan. WRONG. This picture is off the box that the crank was in.
index.php/fa/6025/0/
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on August 28, 2007, 05:07:43 PM
Yup.  I just bought some Daewoo Mini-Split AC's, and sure enough, the Korean company's product came with a "Made In China" label.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: johnR on August 28, 2007, 05:42:32 PM
I was a little surprised recently to see `Made in China' on the rear panel of the new dbx 160A I'd just bought.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 28, 2007, 06:11:47 PM
compasspnt wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 14:07

Yup.  I just bought some Daewoo Mini-Split AC's, and sure enough, the Korean company's product came with a "Made In China" label.



Yeah,, those "mini-split's" are great. I only wish they made the for heat.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 28, 2007, 08:28:50 PM
REF:  TONALITY -


Musical Instruments and Microphones both exhibit sonic elements one might refer to as Timbre or Tone.


Two Steinway B's will All sound decidedly different.  A Brazilian Rosewood D-28 with
scalloped-bracing will have a different "timbre" than an East Indian Rosewood D-28
without the "pre-war" bracing system. (Of course, the type of Spruce matters, too!)

So - if we employ the rough-hewn concept of "Tone-Color" to contrast microphones,
it's the inexactitude of language that requires references to other sensory receptors
(hence, the less-than-perfect references to flavor or color in the audio realm).


SYNESTHESIA - (excerpt from Wikepedia)

A neurologically based phenomenon in which stimulation of one sensory or cognitive pathway
leads to automatic, involuntary experiences in a second sensory or cognitive pathway.


In fact, Some Musicians DO see different musical notes as Primary Colors:

Blue is a different frequency than Red, Middle C is different from G#, etc.



If that's too abstact or too simplistic for some people, I can totally dig it!!



A More Useful Approach to Mic Selection might along these lines:


Does it make my anemic Ramirez sound full ?

Does it make my boomy D-41 sound less boomy ?

Does it faithfully capture the upper register of my piano ? The lower?

Does it love the sound of my voice ? Or my wife's Voice ??

Does it enhance the sound of my Saxophone, Hammond B-3, or Harp (either kind)?

Does it take the edge (the splat and blat) out of my trumpet?

Does it add presence or tame sibilance; round-out or focus
the sound? (I.E.,what psycho-acoustic elements does it lend?)


A good mic should make the playback sound to the subjective
listener As Good - OR Better - as it did in the tracking room!


A Simple Mantra is the "Analog Gear should Flatter the Source"!!

And also - that "One Size Does NOT Fit ALL" when it comes to audio!


In the Hypothetical ADK Color-Wheel -

A Hamburg Edition is Mellow, A Vienna is Brilliant.

A6 and S-7 are in between, with the S-7 being somewhat closer
to a Hamburg, and the A6 being somewhat closer to a Vienna.


We submit "blending" is the key to playing or reproducing music!~


It's an "ENSEMBLE EFFORT" (on so many levels) !!!




Cheers!!!

Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: garret on August 28, 2007, 11:05:41 PM
CHANCE wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 18:11

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 14:07

Yup.  I just bought some Daewoo Mini-Split AC's, and sure enough, the Korean company's product came with a "Made In China" label.



Yeah,, those "mini-split's" are great. I only wish they made the for heat.


Way off topic:

I think hydronic heating is the same basic idea as a minisplit a/c.  Radiant pipes under your floor, usually a pex variant, will heat your place silently and efficiently... and the boiler (or direct heating plant) can be a long way away in the basement, so there's no noise at all.

Even old hot water radiators are usually dead silent... much quieter than "scorched air", as the radiant guys call forced air (furnace) heat...

Me, I'm partial to old steam systems.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Barry Hufker on August 28, 2007, 11:45:28 PM
I have just read the entire thread from the first post to the last.  I feel Cable Guy got us off to a rather bad start because:

1. He did not provide his real name.  I think this is a must when speaking positively of a product to the point it sounds like an ad.

2. He did not state his association with ADK, either as a partner, manufacturer, rep, friend, enthusiastic customer, etc.

I believe these two things must be provided at the start for honesty's sake and shouldn't be allowed to slide.

Larry was good enough to reveal Cable Guy's association with ADK.  Even tho' they have a mutual respect for each other's product, I feel Cable Guy did us all a disservice.  He could have given us the story up front about who he is and why he has this admiration.

Having said this, I will state I have not tried the ADK A-6 but have used (and now own) some Accusound Silver Pro cables.  I have no affiliation, financial or personal with anyone involved in the company.  I am a satisfied user who has compared them against Gotham cables (but not their version of starquad) and have found them to be superior in a clearly audible manner.

Barry



Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on August 29, 2007, 11:41:58 AM
CHANCE wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 18:11


Yeah,, those "mini-split's" are great. I only wish they made the for heat.


Still off-topic:

They do make that.  Many manufacturers have models both either heat and cool (but not at the same time).

Just push the right button.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: CHANCE on August 29, 2007, 12:20:19 PM
compasspnt wrote on Wed, 29 August 2007 08:41

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 28 August 2007 18:11


Yeah,, those "mini-split's" are great. I only wish they made the for heat.


Still off-topic:

They do make that.  Many manufacturers have models both either heat and cool (but not at the same time).

Just push the right button.




Continuing off-topic
My TR doesn't get cold, but it can get quite cool and on the verdge of uncomfortable in the winter months. The "mini" cools it very well on these 100 plus days(thanks for recommending it) but I never thought about getting a dual purpose (heat and cool) unit.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on August 29, 2007, 05:40:27 PM
I didn't think to mention it before.

Here we have no heaters at all.


Now, back to ADK...
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on August 29, 2007, 06:30:01 PM
compasspnt wrote on Wed, 29 August 2007 16:40

I didn't think to mention it before.

Here we have no heaters at all.


Now, back to ADK...


OK, back to ADK.  They arrived today, nicely packed.  The black wooden presentation cases have a high dollar look to them and both mics are pretty hefty.  The A6 looks similar to the Hamburg/Vienna models.  The S7 is about the size of a Neumann TLM103.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: antoniosolo on September 08, 2007, 12:09:26 AM
The ADK A6 is a wonderful sounding mic. I prefer it to low priced mxl or at2020 types. Spent a little more and  The AREA 51s, and now the A6 prove they know their craft.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: antoniosolo on September 08, 2007, 11:56:56 PM
That adk a6 is a wonderful sounding mic.  I had the mxl and "at" budget mics and I sold them to friends after buying the area 51s and later, an a6.  A few more bucks and you have a keeper. Cool
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: sdelsolray on September 09, 2007, 01:18:04 PM
hargerst wrote on Wed, 29 August 2007 15:30


OK, back to ADK.  They arrived today, nicely packed.  The black wooden presentation cases have a high dollar look to them and both mics are pretty hefty.  The A6 looks similar to the Hamburg/Vienna models.  The S7 is about the size of a Neumann TLM103.


Have you had a chance to try out the ADK A6 or S7 mics?
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on September 09, 2007, 02:00:54 PM
It's a two man job testing the mics.  Alex will be in tomorrow and we'll probably start our initial tests then.  Then, if it's appropriate, Alex will try them out on the next recording session.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on September 21, 2007, 10:42:22 AM
antoniosolo wrote on Sat, 08 September 2007 23:56

That adk a6 is a wonderful sounding mic.  I had the mxl and "at" budget mics and I sold them to friends after buying the area 51s and later, an a6.  A few more bucks and you have a keeper. Cool



Since U tried it, u think its close to the new Telefunken AK47?  As it looks, I might just buy the Tele and be done w/it.....
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on September 21, 2007, 02:07:32 PM
Telefunken makes extraordinary microphones.  Toni is a great guy and
if you have the funds, the AK-47 is certainly an very fine option.  

At five times the cost of the S-7, it's really apples and oranges.

From an SPL standpoint the AK-47 specs Max SPL 1% THD @ 1KHz) 132dB

ADK Model S-7 specs Max SPL 0.5% THD @ 1 kHz 150 db

From a tonality standpoint - beauty is in the ear of the beholder.

Both mics are worthy of your consideration.

From my standpoint - for HIGH SPL - the choice is clear.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Doc Roc on October 04, 2007, 12:17:02 AM
...Well!?  haha, I've been watching this thread from a far and I can't wait to hear about them.  I am looking to purchase a couple matched budget condensers and can't wait to hear what you think about them!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on October 04, 2007, 01:00:27 AM
I am going to be checking out their S7 pretty soon...prob not the A6 though.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Doc Roc on October 04, 2007, 01:16:54 AM
awww, but the A6 caused so much controversy!  I was really into this one and then its like my fav show just got canceled!  But I'm definitely interested in the S7 too...
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on October 04, 2007, 11:11:21 AM
We have them both here, but I haven't been able to get together with Alex to test them.  Lemme see if he's put them thru their paces yet.

Stay tuned.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on October 04, 2007, 03:21:06 PM
Hearing is Believing !!!

I'm cautiously optimistic - based only on anechdotal info, that you just might be
glad that ADK didn't pursue the race to the bottom or the mania for eye candy.  

We had the courage of conviction to put the money under the hood. If used as
a Spot Mic - with an optimal distance of One Foot to One Meter from the source -
you will find the openness and honesty of the A6 & S-7 to be compelling !!!

These two mics weren't designed to be 'good for the money'.

They were designed to be flat-out good. Mics with Musicality!!


If you do or don't agree, that's what these forums are for!!


Thanks Harvey - your candid opinion is appreciated!


Cheers!!


Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Doc Roc on October 04, 2007, 07:54:45 PM
Well, I'm definitely gonna hold out a little further on purchasing my next condenser until I hear the results.  Can't wait...

Ross
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on October 06, 2007, 12:13:06 AM
    UPDATE FOR HIGH SPL BRASS -

Our Post Beta in NY with Harris Brothers Horns has led to a
a more Ribbony Variation of the S-7 for reeds and brass.  

The ADK Custom Shop has a new Mod that can alter the basic
tone-signature of the S-7 to make it as mellow as you want it.

Current version had extensive Beta on Drum Elements and Cabs.

The S-7 is Perfect, in our view, for Rock And Roll!!!

But for Brass, there is a MOD that will make the S-7 sound
more like a HIGH SPL Hamburg Edition.  We believe in the idea
of improvisation.  And the idea that one size does not fit all.


The whole purpose for the custom shop is so we can hot-rod mics!

Capsule Swaps, PC Board Swaps, Transformer Swaps. Cool stuff!!  

Like our modular Pre-Amps, we like taking the fundimental
elements of the analog signal chain and making it better.


Tweak-mania is the ADK Way . . . .


Listening to our Artists and Engineers is the driver !!!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Galil on October 12, 2007, 11:52:53 AM
Interested in Terry and Harvey's response on the new models they are checking out.

It seems that the ADK's are going to not be "standard," but will be "modded" for use with horns or voiced in some other way.  Is there going to be some marking on the microphone casing indicating how it has been changed?  Otherwise, when these sell on the used market in a few years, it will be very difficult to understand exactly what one is buying.

Galil
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on October 12, 2007, 02:02:06 PM
Of course, if you liked it enough, you might not sell it...




But I guess you mean buying something someone else would be selling...
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: pbradt on October 13, 2007, 07:21:12 PM
Any word on the testing?
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on October 14, 2007, 11:50:07 AM
Alex has used both mics now.  I'll get some preliminary impressions from him today.  I haven't heard them yet.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on October 14, 2007, 05:20:53 PM
Nor have I heard any yet, and probably won't have time for a while.  Go Harvey!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on October 16, 2007, 02:54:36 PM
REF - ROCK AND ROLL VERSION VS. HORN-FRIENDLY VERSION

We intend to have a both REED and Brass Players weigh in on this continuing "Gamma-Testing".  

Every artist needs their own paintbrush is one of our pet theories.

If we can find a 'color' that makes our Sax and Trumpet players
both happy, we'll probably create a whole new product.  

Make it "Brass Colored" or whatever. Maybe call it the S-7B.

In the end, you might find a way to optimize this HIGH SPL Platform to
Be Source Specific - Guitar Amp Version / Drum Version / Sax / Trumpet / The mind reels . . . . . .

Or - you can take the Swiss Army Mic Approach and see if you can
find the Primary Colors that fit a Wide Assortment of Sources.

I would surmise that we can cover Most Horns with One Color
And that we can cover Most Drums and Cabs with Another.

Yet we're open-minded if this turns out not to be the case!!

We are bench-testing three darker shades of S-7 at this moment.

We'll pick two of them and send pairs out to Joshua Redman,
Bill Evans, Don Harris, Spyro Gyra, et al. So Expect Tracks!!!

If Trumpet Man wants to be part of this test, and you guys want
to round-robin these prototypes, that's what we call the fun of it!

At ADK we call it "Fine-Tuning The Paintbrush".


My friends call it a touch of insanity,
or a bad marketing-plan, or monomania.


Audio Veritas in an MP3 world? He's nuts!!!!


We call it working on beefing up our friends' toolboxes . . .  




We're grateful for everyone's candid comments and constuctive criticism of ANY ADK Product.  


Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: SingSing on October 17, 2007, 11:32:58 AM
hargerst wrote on Sun, 14 October 2007 17:50

Alex has used both mics now.  I'll get some preliminary impressions from him today.  I haven't heard them yet.


Perhaps Alex would let us hear some of his tracks?   Embarassed

Perhaps he used other more wellknown mics on the same source so we could A/B?   Embarassed  Embarassed


All the best,

Stefan
SingSing
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on October 23, 2007, 09:14:09 PM
This has been going on for about four months now....and seems like no one has actually tried these mics and/or is actually coming up with an opinion on these mics....meanwhile, I went ahead and bought a Telefunken RFT AK-47 about 3 weeks ago....so, not really interested in the ADKs anymore....great marketing Larry...! Laughing
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: organica on October 24, 2007, 12:29:43 PM
If you guys pull this together , I would love a shot a trying both of them here .
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on October 24, 2007, 02:00:43 PM
Trumpetman2 wrote on Tue, 23 October 2007 20:14

This has been going on for about four months now....and seems like no one has actually tried these mics and/or is actually coming up with an opinion on these mics....meanwhile, I went ahead and bought a Telefunken RFT AK-47 about 3 weeks ago....so, not really interested in the ADKs anymore....great marketing Larry...! Laughing

Look, when you send stuff for evaluation to a studio, it takes a while to find time to check it out.  In our case, we've been booked heavily for months.  It's not fair to groups (who are paying for an album) for us to play with mics on their time.

Testing mics takes time; we hafta set up several mics and try them on different sources.  It takes at least two people to evaluate a mic properly.  Now, when you consider that the manufacturer's reputation is at stake, you wanna make sure your test is as fair as possible.  

If I agree to test something, I wanna make sure I get it right.  And I wanna make sure the testing is complete, warts and all.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Galil on October 24, 2007, 04:04:07 PM
The natives are getting restless . . .

I have to hand it to ADK.  Larry is getting microphones into the hands of Harvey and Terry.  He is willing to let the chips fall where they may.  Guys, I have not paid big bucks to get this review, and I am patient to use what I currently have and wait on further wisdom, which will be a gift.

If I can remind those who were around at the start of the year, ART received quite a bit of praise for a discontinued product and there was real excitement to see a review of a current piece.  Terry was willing to test it, but ART was not willing to risk a "Fletcher like" review (think Mackie/stick) and make it available.

It takes guts to solicit pro opinions.

Trumpetman2 does confuse me.  When he is unhappy with a sound, he buys a new microphone.  I thought that when you are unhappy with a  sound, you buy a new instrument.  Very Happy  

Galil
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on October 24, 2007, 05:15:45 PM
Trumpetman2 does confuse me.  When he is unhappy with a sound, he buys a new microphone.  I thought that when you are unhappy with a  sound, you buy a new instrument.  Very Happy  

Galil[/quote]

...you got me...!  I do have 25 trumpets after all!!!!  Didn't mean to come off as a P****, although I did, but I needed a decent condenser mic soon....so, I was in a rush...and as often happens, ended up spending a lot more than I had planned- $1600 on the Telefunken...I do like it though, and I guess if the ADK pans out as a good mic down the road, I might just buy that one too.... Very Happy
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Jack Schitt on October 30, 2007, 11:03:39 PM
hargerst wrote on Wed, 24 October 2007 14:00

Trumpetman2 wrote on Tue, 23 October 2007 20:14

This has been going on for about four months now....and seems like no one has actually tried these mics and/or is actually coming up with an opinion on these mics....meanwhile, I went ahead and bought a Telefunken RFT AK-47 about 3 weeks ago....so, not really interested in the ADKs anymore....great marketing Larry...! Laughing

Look, when you send stuff for evaluation to a studio, it takes a while to find time to check it out.  In our case, we've been booked heavily for months.  It's not fair to groups (who are paying for an album) for us to play with mics on their time.

Testing mics takes time; we hafta set up several mics and try them on different sources.  It takes at least two people to evaluate a mic properly.  Now, when you consider that the manufacturer's reputation is at stake, you wanna make sure your test is as fair as possible.  

If I agree to test something, I wanna make sure I get it right.  And I wanna make sure the testing is complete, warts and all.



I don't think he was complaining. He just had to make a decision and moved on.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on November 02, 2007, 10:01:25 AM

I don't think he was complaining. He just had to make a decision and moved on.
[/quote]


Thank you!  Someone understands..... Very Happy
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on November 04, 2007, 01:21:54 AM
UPDATE ON THE SEARCH FOR HIGH SPL MIC FOR BRASS AND REEDS


Kevin, our "Hot-Rod" Mic-Mechanic, has sent out four sets of 3 variations of the Model S-7.  

Production ADK S-7 is for drums, cabs, and screamo. We molded the mic to fit those primary uses.

And while the S-7 is already "Medium Dark" in color, the reed and brass players have always preferred
ribbon mics for Brass and U-47 for Reeds, both of which have little sonic information above 10k.

Harvey, correct me if I'm wrong, but both Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, all the sax players used
U-47 in the Rudy Van Gelder days.  Miles used Ribbons and U-47 at various times, right?


It is possible to TUNE the S-7 to be several shades "darker"

We created two Darker Shades of the S-7 for evaluation.

Chestnut Ale and Guiness if you like . . .

Some respected trumpet and sax players are expected to soon weigh in on their favorite
version, which - if there's enough interest - will become a Brass-Colored Horn Mic - the S-7B.  

High SPL for Rockers / High SPL for Horns.  Seems democratic to me!!!

Anyway - we build things at ADK to be application-specific.


Bad Marketing somebody's gonna tell me . .


As Miles once said:


So what ?


It only matters if YOU hear it.  Nobody else's ears matter!!!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Trumpetman2 on November 06, 2007, 02:28:14 PM
 Very Happy Actually, Larry is being too modest....I am one of the trumpeters "testing" this microphone and will present my impressions later on....I can say this much now - This ADK S-7B has the most amazing tone I have heard on a condenser microphone!  I'll advance that I liked its tone more than my Telefunken AK-47's tone.......quite an accomplishment for a microphone that costs 1/5 the price of the Telefunken...! Smile


More later.....  
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Galil on November 19, 2007, 11:24:45 AM
Trumpetman2 wrote:

Thank you! Someone understands.....

I think we all understand. . . . Smile

Just think of us as part of your 12 step group.  Hi, I'm Galil, and I buy microphones  Shocked

Trumpetman2 also wrote in response to me:

...you got me...! I do have 25 trumpets after all!!!!

Thanks.  You have no idea how helpful this is to me.  When my wife asks about why I need 7 electric bass guitars (all sound different to me, some neck through - some bolt on, some 4 string and others 5 string, some passive or active electronics, etc.), 2 acoustic guitars and 2 electric guitars, now I can mention a guy in Maryland who has 25 horns (presumably including trumpets, fluegelhorns, and cornets).  This provides great cover for my own gear habit.  Smile

Denny W. wrote:

I don't think he was complaining. He just had to make a decision and moved on.

I don't believe in americans with a recording habit who will never buy another $300 microphone.  Perhaps this is just has to do with knowing my own heart.  If ADK was making $5,000 microphones, I'd believe one was moving on.  However since that time, Trumpetman2 has reviewed the ADK and now has me wanting one.

Carry on.

Galil


Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Galil on January 09, 2008, 02:29:24 PM
Hi!

Don't know if Harvey or Terry ever got a chance to test the ADK microphones in this thread, but I just wanted to see if either ended up having a report.

Still interested.

Galil
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on January 11, 2008, 01:24:29 PM
Sorry G.

I keep meaning to, but A) I always am so busy, too many things are   always "getting in my way," and B) I couldn't ever decide which mic version to test...

T
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: ricknroll on January 11, 2008, 03:37:15 PM
Trumpetman2 wrote on Wed, 24 October 2007 14:15


...you got me...!  I do have 25 trumpets after all!!!!  Didn't mean to come off as a P****, although I did, but I needed a decent condenser mic soon....so, I was in a rush...and as often happens, ended up spending a lot more than I had planned- $1600 on the Telefunken...I do like it though, and I guess if the ADK pans out as a good mic down the road, I might just buy that one too.... Very Happy


You should sell a few trumpets, buy an original M49, and call it a day.  As a bonus, the M49 will sound great on other things besides your horn (ignoring for a moment we're in the "No Budget" forum).

Rick
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: hargerst on January 11, 2008, 04:14:47 PM
Last Sunday, my son Alex and I ran thru 8 mics: Here are the test tracks, enjoy:

http://www.ITRstudio.com/ADK A6.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/ADK S7.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/Avant CK7.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/Avant CR14.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/MXL V88.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/MXL V67Q.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/SP CS5.mp3
http://www.ITRstudio.com/SP T3 Lundahl.mp3

Hopefully, all the tracks are self-explanatory.

Not exactly scientific, but maybe helpful.

Note: the SP T3 actually has the Cinemag transformer, not the Lundahl.

Here's more.  Home Recording had a group buy on microphones and here are some tests on 3 of those mics.  I believe Chance Pataki still has some left at ridiculously low prices:


http://www.itrstudio.com/ACM583.mp3

http://www.itrstudio.com/ACM3.mp3

http://www.itrstudio.com/ACM310.mp3
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Galil on January 12, 2008, 10:53:26 PM
Thanks Harvey!

That cross-section is a real gift!  I will be going through these files to contrast and compare. I hope that others will also find these, too!

Peace

Galil

Note to T:  I understand.  In a previous post you had mentioned that an ADK S-7 was possibly in your future.  Your forthrightness in past posts has made your opinion all the more valuable.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on January 16, 2008, 02:35:20 PM
A few random thoughts. . .

Our primary Aim with the A6 was Not as a Vocal Mic.

Our primary aim was an all-around utility mic that had
Guitar, Piano, Drum OH, and SPOKEN Voice as Primary Apps.

We would consider the Vienna and Hamburg to be our Best
Vocal FET Mics.  We get frequent emails from tenor male
and female vocalists who say they Love the A6!! But the
Truth Be Told, Vocals was NOT a Top Priority in its design.

By Design, the A6 has A Little, but Not a Lot, of Upper Mids.

By Design, the S-7 is even More Attenuated in the Upper Mids.


Indeed, it's the S-7 that surprises us by the number of vocal
talent who love the fact they can play rough and sing loud on it!


Our ten year saga in mic buiding has been a journey toward
a more open, accurate, greater linearity (but not ruler-flat).

I'll take the criticism of "Too Neutral" for the A6.

"Not gonna win any mic shoot-outs with this one" we were told.


Forgive me if I disagree with Harvey on this, I shouldn't think A6
would be flattering On a SAX - The S-7 (darker) or Hamburg (darkest)
perhaps might be a more flatttering ADK for Saxophones and Reeds.


Please Try the A6 on Acoustic Steel and Nylon String Guitars.  

The only thing I have collected longer than microphones is
hand-made acoustic instruments. It matters to me to blend the two!!!


If you Don't LOVE the A6 on Frets, I'll hang up my spurs and go
back to playing back-alley jazz. . . The A6 was made for frets!!!


Try A6 on Hand Percussion. Or Voice-Overs. That's what we're
hearing from the first few hundred owners of these two mics.


The REEDIST thing the A6 will Love is a Hammond B-3 (we are told).


AND: Thanks to all the Beta and Gamma Testers on these two products!


Cheers!


Larry V / ADK  www.myspace.com/adkmic

"Your tracks don't care what your gear looks like."

 
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: gwailoh on January 16, 2008, 03:13:51 PM
Larry, thanks for posting the interesting information about your microphones, in this thread and in others here on PSW.

I'm confused though by the multiple variants of many of your mics.  There seem to be an S-7, and an S-7b; the FET Vienna and Vienna II, plus what I think seems to be a tube version which is called, I think, TT-Vienna-AU; and ditto two FET and one tube version of the Hamburg.  I'm not sure how to sort all of these out, and, I'm not sure how to buy them.  For example, I haven't found any dealers who list the S-7b.

Can you clarify what the differences are between these variants?  And also can you help me understand how I would order, say, an S-7b, if I wanted to check one out?

Thanks!

--Mark
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on January 16, 2008, 10:07:27 PM
I am literally at the PDX airport getting ready to fly to NAMM

I promise a detailed  response wthin 48 horse
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: compasspnt on January 17, 2008, 12:46:59 AM
Has it been 48 horse yet?

Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 17, 2008, 07:00:37 AM
Anyone herd from Larry?
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on January 18, 2008, 01:09:34 PM
I am being held captive at the NAMM show with only a cell phone to type on!!

We will be producing the B (brass) version of the S7.

ETA April

In the mean time you can order a S-7 and. Send it the ADK Custom Shop and we will modify it for free.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Guacamole on January 28, 2008, 04:35:05 PM
I just took a couple out to gig with on a country show for our two lead vocalists. They were not confortable at first using but they really liked the sound we got, especially the low end.
We could also turn up the gain much higher than with the usual SM58's. It takes a little getting used to on a stage but the look is unique and effective.
Next will be our demo recording session next week.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: antoniosolo on February 01, 2008, 06:30:28 PM
If you would like to hear a recording done with the ADK A6 I have posted a recording done with this mic by a professional singer in my studio.  Please go to http://www.hearthegear.com/a/94-adk_a6_adk_a6_mbox.php  
to hear this track.  The singer absolutely would not sing through any other microphone after hearing this track.  And this was without a 2k mic pre! Rolling Eyes  I like getting great results without having to spend alot.  I do plan on getting an API lunchbox in the future but this mic makes me feel like I dont "have to".
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: antoniosolo on March 06, 2008, 07:39:39 PM
This column being intended for "no stinking budget" I am basically saying "if you need a great mic for under $250, here it is!"  As I move up the mic "food chain" I will try more adk's because they have outperformed every other "budget" mic I had purchased.  I am one of the best at researching and saving money and I am pleased when I find something and I share it with others as I hope others will continue to share their secrets with me.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: antoniosolo on March 08, 2008, 07:56:00 PM
Sorry it took awhile to get back to you.  I have no experience with the telefunken but from what I have heard it is a well respected microphone.  I think you must compare mics in a price bracket so I can only attest to the A6 compared to $250  and lesser mics.  
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Blas on April 13, 2008, 07:35:38 PM
I really got around to hitting this thread way,way late...but I'll post anyway.  I've been using Larry's mic's for the better part of 9 years, starting with the original A-51's.  Have a set of TL's and use a pair of the 48's on a Decca tree when doing 50+ musician's stage bands and gotta say I LOVE 'EM !!!

Keep up the great work Larry!-
Joe Blasingame
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on May 20, 2008, 03:47:43 PM
Thanks Joe!

Check out an A6 User's Homage to this new mic:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8X9fZyud1s

Cheers!


Larry Villella, ADK

www.adkmic.com

www.myspace.com/adkmic

NEW:

www.myspace.com/adkusers
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Bill_Urick on May 20, 2008, 10:24:27 PM
Been following this thread with some interest and finally had the opportunity to borrow an A6 from a dealer/friend here in town. Just tried it on an acoustic guitar track.
Very usable, with a little EQ.
Might sound better with a different pre as well.
It's a good deal so I think I'm gonna buy it.
I'll try to post some files in a few days if anyone's interested.

I think I like mics with transformers better than without.
Nice job, Larry.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on May 21, 2008, 11:05:48 AM

Thanks Bill / Leto II !


I also like Transformer-Coupled Mics - for vocals, reeds, many guitars.


By virtue of it's 'relative' linearity, the A6 is EQ-Friendly!!

When given the chance, Suzy Bogguss chose the A6 over the S-7 for guitars (track soon with zero EQ).

http://www.myspace.com/adkusers


That said, I like transformerless mics on many percussion sources,
as well as grand pianos, where transient-response is critical.



Enjoy!


Larry V / ADK)))
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: theo mack on June 15, 2008, 02:05:15 PM
Larry Villella wrote on Wed, 21 May 2008 08:05


Thanks Bill / Leto II !


I also like Transformer-Coupled Mics - for vocals, reeds, many guitars.


By virtue of it's 'relative' linearity, the A6 is EQ-Friendly!!

When given the chance, Suzy Bogguss chose the A6 over the S-7 for guitars (track soon with zero EQ).

http://www.myspace.com/adkusers


That said, I like transformerless mics on many percussion sources,
as well as grand pianos, where transient-response is critical.



Enjoy!


Larry V / ADK)))



I love the myspace vid.
sir martin george.......lol
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Bill_Urick on June 30, 2008, 06:07:09 AM
Tracking Hammond yesterday.
A6's on Leslie.
Sounds good.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on August 20, 2008, 05:07:42 PM
Thanks Bill!!


Spent Four Days in LA at Voice-Actor Expo recently. . .


The Vienna II-AU and A6 were the two favorite ADK
Mics according to our informal poll of voice-talent.

I was a late-night FM announcer in a former life, so it
was really cool to share Vox mic technique now vs then.


Larry V / ADK)))

www.myspace.com/adkmic

Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: jowillie on August 23, 2008, 12:06:21 PM
Thanks for sharing that.
We'll see.

VO Mic Test
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on September 03, 2008, 06:47:29 PM


We'd rather you closed your eyes and think with your ears!!!

My humble opinion is it still gets back to blending elements:

The Source, the Mic, the Signal-Chain.

Each one is different. What works for one individual
singer/guitar/piano/sax/ might not work for another!


www.hearthegear.com  for additional ADK soundfiles.

Or get any of Ray Charles last 3 CD's, Kathy Mattea's last
5 CD's, Spyro Gyra's last 4. ADK Soundfiles are everywhere!


Files are a guide-post, but it's still better to personally
do REAL-TIME Analysis of the Mic that is Source Specific!!!

Your Axe, Your Pre-amp, Your Monitors, YOUR EARS!!!!

There are five or six mics that you could put in the hands of
a first-call engineer that would solve 95% of all their needs.

It's just that they know how the proximity boost is different
for each mic and make optimal use of "working" the mic to find
the sweet spot.  Technique often Trumps Technology in Audio!!

Check out the Blog at www.myspace.com/adkusers

Musically yours,

Larry V / ADK))))

Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on September 03, 2008, 07:07:06 PM
I appreciate that post Larry, makes sense.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: JP Gerard on September 08, 2008, 01:38:30 PM
Hi guys, if you have any tech questions on the A6, just shoot... I'll be at IBC for a week but will log on once in a wile.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on December 03, 2008, 04:25:56 PM
I got to listen (for the first time in 25 years) to a vinyl
recording of ABC Impulse Album Hues By Sam Rivers Jr.

Sam Rivers son and I engineered the first 4 tracks on this
live session in 1971 at the Jazz Workshop in Boston.

I remember we had 8 channels of Langeven linear pots and
a notorious Scully 8 track, and a handful of New U-87s.

My takeaway from this re-hearing isn't anything too profound:

The 87's were wonderful on OH, Good for Piano, and
OK on Flute and Tenor Sax, not so hot on Soprano Sax.  

My guess is that similar application-specific best-use-scenario
exist for the ADK A6 (both mics are slightly forward in the mix).

The best part of the Sam Rivers Jr story for me was a call
I got last year that Sam was recording a new CD - using ADK!

So you might say we've come full circle.

As a guy who likes to play and record music,
the most fun for me is when serious musicians
have that 'lightbulb-moment' regarding analog tonality.

The real lesson here is that Tenor Sax can tolerate
a slightly bright mic, but a particularly 'reedy' soprano
cannot.  To resolve that in 1971 we would have - in a big
studio setting - have pulled out a U-67 or even a U-47.

So darker colors, Like Hamburg or S-7B would be the
solution for the Overly Bright / Overly Nasal Source.

I dig the A6 on a wide variety of sources.

But being Mostly-Neutral isn't always the Color you want!

Still, the A6 cuts a wide swath in the utility column!!!!




Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: antoniosolo on December 13, 2008, 03:38:26 AM
Its funny that I return to the track that I posted with a link for the A6...I hadn't had that mic long and I went through very little work to get my sound, but once I got it re-positioned  and re-adjusted a few times for the singers dynamics, I knew I had an awesome mic....I still get great takes with that mic from both female and male as well as acoustic guitar.....I hate to say it but I pat myself on the back knowing I come away with takes that rival even the best facilities...all in my little nook here in the bay on a budget....I am totally sold on your products, and all of your models I own, produce for me....I won't invest in anything else...I now am getting a craving for your new lineup....Gotta find the funds first though..Have a great Holiday and keep up the obviously great engineering...
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Larry Villella on March 26, 2009, 07:55:23 PM

I appreciate your kind words!

People tell me that ADK Disappeared from the Radar for
a few years.  The fact is we were "Wood-Shedding" !!

Everything we build has been re-evaluated and re-invented
over the past 24 months and I'm very happy with the results!

As a musician, I practice every day.  As a mic builder,
I am constantly asking our design-team what can we do
to make it better. And - from my perspective - they have!

12 Years and 100,000+ Mics later, we are still a small
company with client-satisfaction and personalized service.

And we never intend to stop questioning or asking "Why Not?"

We appreciate your feedback - positive OR negative!!!

Cheers!
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: Greg B on May 25, 2010, 06:32:30 PM
The A-6 is very nice on acoustic guitar.  Probably the best I have used in that price range.
Title: Re: The New ADK A-6 Condenser Microphone
Post by: DanaB on May 25, 2010, 07:29:25 PM
Hasn't been much written lately on the extremely useful A6. What a useful mic!  The Silver Perkins are really on to something.  It is tough to beat the A6 for the honest recording of an acoustic instrument.