AT4047 or TLM193 for strings and winds?

[jnorman]

looking for a new LDC to spot strings and woodwinds. the at4047 and tlm193 both have reps as rather mellow in the top end. which do you think is the better choice? others you might suggest? thanks.

[Jim vanBergen]

Both are fine mics that wil work well as spots. You might also consider tube models as well as ribbons if you want mellow top end.

[Mike Derrick]

I've had both and used both with strings. Jim's right, both are fine, but personally if the choice is only between the 4047 and the 193, I'm putting up the 193. I feel that the 193 smooths out the frequencies that can sometimes seem to jump out during a bowing swell or a loud note better than the 4047. my 2 cents anyhow. The ribbon/tube mic suggestion is a good idea too.

[bcgood]

AEA R84

Although I really like the AT 4047, apparently so does this guy...

[John Willett]

Of the two, I would go for the TLM 193.

But, personally, I prefer an SDC like the MKH 8040.

[sonare]

But the 193 and 8040 sound completely different-- one is very neutral (the 193) and the other is really clear but has a touch of "sparkle."

I recently recorded piano quartets with 2 different pianos-- one was a NY Steinway that the 8040s complemented as spots, and the other a more brilliant Hamburg Steinway-- it was 193s for it.

2 different mics but the goal is the same-- restore the overtones and detail the mains do not catch.

Rich

[Bob Bickerton]

I use the TLM 193 as standard on a wide variety of string and wind instruments. I think 'on the smooth side of neutral' would be a good description. Not quite as 'clinical' as some SDCs, probably not as 'warm' (colored?) as some ribbons.

Haven't tried the 4047.

Bob