OK, well I've listened and learnt and finally I ponied up last night as time isn't unlimited...
Went for a matched pair of stock Oktava MK-012's for a couple of reasons maybe worth noting:
My signal chain is nothing to write home about (>>Duet>>MBP>>Logic) and neither are my ears (tinnitus ...
)
So I'm not convinced that I'd hear a big diff between the 012's and say, the 930's that I was considering (that's even
if I do manage to find that sweet spot where they really shine) and certainly not convinced enough to justify the 400€ difference. No, better that I get to know these and as and when my needs justify it and my ears have started forming opinions, that I can say, "I need
these qualities that these mics don't have".
But then this AM I saw a new CAD M179 on ebay US for the ridiculous price of 170 bucks and I pressed the button and paid and so you see, I'm a real gearslut after all.
Will report back when they all arrive. Thanks to all who took the time to advise, it's much appreciated.