Condenser for guitar

[theGeek]

So, I'm looking at new mics. I've had a project studio that I'm hoping to start improving. I've been using Audix i5s for guitar amps but I spent some time in a real studio recently and they mic'ed with an i5 and a large diaphragm condenser. The one they used was WAY too expensive for my needs so I'm wondering what mics are available on a budget.

About a year ago I got myself an MXL 990 and it gets as good of results as you'd expect from that mic. So, I'm looking for something better but I'm not in the market for a $1500 mic.

[kafka]

Originally Posted by theGeek

I've been using Audix i5s for guitar amps but I spent some time in a real studio recently and they mic'ed with an i5 and a large diaphragm condenser. The one they used was WAY too expensive for my needs so I'm wondering what mics are available on a budget.

What did they use? I've seen U87's on amps plenty of times. That seems to be somewhat of a Vox and Champ Amp kind of thing, although I'm sure there are plenty of other places where it will work. I can see wanting a detail mic for those applications.

Here's an interesting article on the subject of guitar recording. Eddie Kramer says he used a Beyer M160 ribbon mic on Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. Did not know that. I think I want one now.

[upinflames]

For heavier rock stuff the AT4033 works really well, it you can find them around $200 used all the time. That's probably one of the few cheaper condenser microphones I would recommend for that application. Also works wonders on mono acoustic, front of a kick drum, bass amplifiers, and on some occasions vocals. It's a great utility microphone to have around.

[theGeek]

I don't remember what they used. I should ask.