[hollywood_steve]

I've read of the C42s being compared to the KM184, but then some in this forum speak of the KM184 as having a harsh or brittle high end. Do you think the C42s are superior to the KM184s in this regard, despite their significantly lower price tag?

I don't have any hands on experience with the C42s, but I do want to comment on the KM184s. I'm the first to agree that these mics might be a little brighter than I would prefer, but I'd rate them as a LONG way from harsh or brittle. For a little over $1k/pair (back when the dollar was worth something), these were a great deal. Most of the negative comments I have heard from actual users have been in comparison to other high end (often pricier!) mics. Compared to the flood of cheap condensers introduced recently (NOT the Josephsons), you might be surprised at just how good the KM184s can sound.