down to 2 choices of mics need help

[groupouts]

Currently I'm using an AKG c3000B for my vocals and acoustic gtr tracking...It has done wonders but the mic is really bright. I running Avalon Pre's. I want to get a better sounding mic for my pre's. Unfortunately I can't afford a U87. My two options are : C414TL II or a Neuman TLM 103...I've heard the C414 and like the way it sounds but I've never heard the 103. What do you guys suggest.

[Ted]

You'll probably find those microphones to be pretty bright as well...the TLII is a little more flexible since it has variable polar patterns, but if you really want a U87-type sound the TLM103 is a lot closer. As to which is "better" I'm afraid it really does come down to personal opinion.

-Ted

[cmchamp]

Have you checked the polar patterns and specs on the TLII? It's going to be brigher than the 3000.

[groupouts]

Which do you guys think would be a better investment? Or are there other options...I've worked with the BLUE Mouse before but I've noticed I had to eq out alot of mids from it. What about those Groove Tubes?

[Ted]

Have you checked the polar patterns and specs on the TLII? It's going to be brigher than the 3000.

My point exactly...I didn't state it clearly, but both the TLII and the TLM103 are bright microphones.

I think either should be a good investment...if you're looking for a microphone that's not as bright, you might want to check out something a bit more neutral, such as the BLUE Baby Bottle, the C414B/ULS or one of the Audio-Technica microphones like the 4050 or 4040. Maybe even the 4047, which is a nice warm microphone that leans towards the "dark" side a bit without sounding dull...

-Ted

[michaelhoddy]

Or, if you wanna go high-end, try the Soundelux U195.

I second the idea of giving the 4047 a listen. Definitely a different character than most of the other 40-series mics.

[Scott Gould]

If you're looking to get away from bright (hyped high-mids IMO) try the AKG C4000B. For vocals, I'll reach for it before I grab either of the C414 variations. It manages to be full and warm without being cloudy or dark. I've got a lot of more expensive mics in the studio, but for some voices (especially thin males or shrill females) this thing does wonders.

Scott

[xstatic]

I also would look at the Soundelux U195. I think that of all the mics listed in this post, the U195 is by far the best value.

[John34]

I have a c3000b and the Tlm103. I've used a 414 but only really liked it on guitar and other general purposes. The TLM103 can be a great mic if you experiment with positioning.