Need new spot mic for flute - advice?

[jnorman]

i want to pick up a new spot mic specifically for flute. i was thinking perhaps a ribbon or good dynamic like senn 441.

if i go with a ribbon, i was considering one of the new active ribbons, like the golden age R1 mkIII or superlux R102. or i might try a CA Trion 7000 or apex 205 in conjunction with one of the Fethead in-line modules (which basically turns it into an "active" ribbon. i could also use the fethead to support a dynamic like the 441.

the spot mic will generally be used in conjunction with a main ORTF pair of SDCs, but may also be used alone for solos or overdubs if needed.

what is your best advice here regarding one of the active ribbons above, vs passive ribbon plus fethead, vs 441 w/fethead? or other flute mic suggestions? (i might like a warm condenser like tlm170 or tlm193, but cant afford them, and dont know any other truly warm condensers).

for those unfamiliar with the active ribbons i mentioned, here are links:

Superlux Ribbon and Specialty Microphones

GOLDEN AGE PROJECT R1 ACTIVE MK3 RIBBON MICROPHONE - eBay (item 230341553322 end time Jun-05-09 12:41:34 PDT)

thanks.

[Adebar]

Originally Posted by jnorman

(i might like a warm condenser like tlm170 or tlm193, but cant afford them, and dont know any other truly warm condensers).

In that case I would try a Audio Technica AT5050.

The TLM170 I wouldn´t consider as warm condenser like the TLM193 (and the U89) ist.

[Corran]

Ribbons are a good choice. I've also made decent recordings with dynamics but I haven't used a high-end one (I'd love to try the 441). But you are going to have to be fairly close with the dynamic to get any level. If it's a spot for like orchestra I'd go for the ribbon.

I used an Oktava MK-012 as a semi-distant spot once and it sounded very good.

[Corran]

Oh and the Fethead is really great, I'd get one and then a regular ribbon so you could use it on anything you wanted, rather than just an active ribbon.

[jnorman]

okay - i ordered a cascade fathead, and a tritonaudio FetHead - we'll see how that setup works. i will try to post some clips as soon as i receive the items. thanks.

[klaukholm]

Originally Posted by Adebar

The TLM170 I wouldn´t consider as warm condenser like the TLM193 (and the U89) ist.

The 193 and the 170 are not really very far apart in sound...

I really like schoeps mk4 for flute.

[taturana]

i use my neumann km145 for flute with great results...

[Corran]

Originally Posted by klaukholm

The 193 and the 170 are not really very far apart in sound...

I really like schoeps mk4 for flute.

Really? What distance and setup? When I first got my set I did a quick and dirty listening test while playing flute and I didn't like it at all (on flute, overall it's a great mic of course).

[klaukholm]

close spot mic in an orchestral session.
I can send you a clip next time I have the multitrack in front of me.

Sennheiser mkh40 also sounds great.

[pkautzsch]

Neumann KM 184 gives nice "air" on flute when placed about 4 to 5 ft out.
Actually, I've found any SDC I tried to give workable results. Depends a lot on what's sitting next to or behind that flute you want to spot.

[Corran]

I have had more luck with ribbons or LDC's on my instrument, but that's probably because I have a rather distinctive tone. I'd love to hear a clip klaukholm if you happen to find it.

[Teddy Ray]

the coles 4040 is gorgeous, as is the r84.

I have an apex ribbon mic that was given to me as a present from my bandmate, ..well, the Sank NOS RCA ribbon elements modification is amazing!! around 250 bucks or so for the mod, plus the cost of the mic(250 or so)..

..great, great sound for little money!

RCA, Beyer, B&O & Shure Ribbon Microphone Repair/Restoration

also.. these guys do it, too..

Pro Audio Heaven! Vintage Ribbon Microphones, RCA, Shure, Neumann, Neve, B&O and more... - Home

Most single ribbon mics w/NOS RCA upgrade : $200
Most double ribbon mics w/ RCA upgrade : $250
Transformer upgrades : $75

[Corran]

I had a mic from Pro Audio Heaven. Great guys and a pleasure to work with.

[flute player]

Originally Posted by Corran

Oh and the Fethead is really great, I'd get one and then a regular ribbon so you could use it on anything you wanted, rather than just an active ribbon.

This is a short piece of a Fathead with flute.