Schoeps M/S setup

[muzeon]

Hi all,

This is my first post. Been scouring through the search, don't think I found this question... I am trying to build a M-S setup for sound effects and field recording. Found a used Schoeps MK-41, KCY cable (16 ft), and Schoeps VMS 5U setup. Thinking about buying a MK-8 seperately. Since I will use it handheld most often, I talked to Redding Audio, they recommend getting a Schoeps AMS suspension so the junction box for the KCY can be mounted to the suspension, then buy the Rycote Stereo entended Ball gag windshield, windjammer, seperately.

However, they sounded like this is the first time they heard of this setup (presume most often people use CCMs, or if MKs use in conjunction with the CMCs).

Wonder before I go down this road (lots of money), anyone have similar setup like this? How did it work out? Please keep in mind, I need a M-S matrix to feed into my portable Sony PCM-D1 (with XLR adapter).

On the other hand, am considering the Sennheiser MKH 8050, with Sound Devices 302. But since there is still no work from Sennheiser about the release for MKH8030 (figure8) , may not work out. Overall, brand NEW Sennheiser/SD setup is still cheaper than the used Schoeps setup (probably 6 to 8 years old?).

Just trying to get thoughts - like a compact rig, but not sensitive to handling noise (cable sensitivity). Hope I'm making my questions clear. Thanks alot!!!

[sailor]

This doesn't directly address your gear question, but there was a spirited discussion a while back about the pros and cons of MS recording for SFX and its impact on the mix workflow downstream:

M/S in Protools session - 2 track or 3 track ?

Just some good food for thought regarding what stereo technique may be best for the kind of work you're going to be doing, and what kind of setup you'll want to put together.

[minister]

quickly, as i am just passing through and have little time now. by all means check out what other people say. But Buzz Turner (owner of Redding.... I assume you talked to him?) knows his sh!$ and has been the Schoeps distributor (and a dealer) in the US for a long time. He talks to Schoeps all the time, he knows all the people there, has for years, he distributes all the orders in the US, he knows the line. I would trust everything he tells you. He will give you his opinion and tell you when he does not know something. He is one of the good guys, so, whatever you do, I suggest you deal through him.


As to your setup, I don't know it, I do know the CCM MK4/Mk8 setup. which I and a colleague have. So, sorry, someone else will have to chime in. Try the Remote forum too.

Don't be afraid to pick Buzz's brain again. He is a no pressure guy. He doesn't care if and when you buy. He just wants happy customers.

[sepulchra]

I second the buzz turner rec. Buzz is a saint among men in this business and is full of sage advice.

I bough my Schoeps MS rig from Buzz 8 years ago and it has served me well.

[muzeon]

Thanks all, will call Buzz tomorrow. I did call Redding Audio today, very knowledgeable and helpful people there, but didn't speak to Buzz. Although I failed to mention to Redding Audio that the used setup for sale (MK41, KCY cable, and VMS5U), the KCY cable is KCY 250/5lg... wonder if it will work with Schoeps AMS m/s suspension.

sepulchra, what is your Schoeps m/s rig?

[muzeon]

Update: Talked to them again, again very friendly and they know their stuff!

Said most people use CCMs nowadays for setups like this, and the mk caps with Rycote and Schoeps preamp is an old way of doing it, but it's been tried and tested, so it works well too.
Yes, I would need the KCY 115 cable instead, that sale kit comes with KCY250. So I guess I can't buy that with the KCY cable.

Originally started out wanting CCMs for my M/S, but so pricey, especially now I run into this MK/VMS5U setup used price.

[sepulchra]

Originally Posted by muzeon

Update: Talked to them again, again very friendly and they know their stuff!

Said most people use CCMs nowadays for setups like this, and the mk caps with Rycote and Schoeps preamp is an old way of doing it, but it's been tried and tested, so it works well too.
Yes, I would need the KCY 115 cable instead, that sale kit comes with KCY250. So I guess I can't buy that with the KCY cable.

Originally started out wanting CCMs for my M/S, but so pricey, especially now I run into this MK/VMS5U setup used price.

I use the CMC's for flexibility. I can put different capsules on the bodies for different situations and that trumps the CCMs for me.

[muzeon]

Well, just bought the used rig tonight, with MK41, VMS5U and KCY cable. Now I need to get myself MK8 or MK6, and a blimp! Very quiet (low noise) mic and preamp!