Earthworks flex mic on vocals ?

[plus6vu]

Has anyone tried the Earthworks flex mics on live vocals? I have several QTC 40's and like them, so I'm familiar with Earthworks. I like the small profile of these and have an opportunity to get a nice deal on two of them.

I really need something small for live classical vocals. I'd like to have some of the Schoeps "tubes", but I can't afford them.

Can anyone give me some insight here?

Thanks!
Scott

[bishopthomas]

These are the podium type mics, right? I've never used them but always wanted to try them out. I'm a big fan of Earthworks mics so I'm sure I would like it. I used to have several SR69's (same as the SR77 but with a screw-on windscreen). I used them for everything from snare, el/ac/classical guitar, strings, podium speeches, and live handheld vocals (which is what they were marketed for). Several years ago I heard that most of the capsules were basically the same, just put in a different body. If that's anywhere close to the truth then I'm sure the Flex mics will sound every bit as good as the rest of the lines.

[plus6vu]

Yes, these are podium mics that claim to perform much like the SR69. I don't have much experience with the Earthworks cardioids, but I have heard all of the reports of proximity effect and the LF rolloff beyond about 6 inches. These will mostly be used for voices, and most probably female voices or higher tenors, so that's not a huge issue. I'm just hoping for a little reassurance that these will work well for my purpose.

Scott

[Jim vanBergen]

Scott,

First, nothing else is a Schoeps. Having said that, the Earthworks podium mics are great sounding. The goosenecks are good, the capsules sound great. They are a really sweet deal pricewise. I have been using them for podium mics and in a pinch, for all kinds of reinforcement when I needed a good condenser mic with a gooseneck.

You still have to be aware of the large preamp at the end of the gooseneck, so plan accordingly. Also, these mics can have issues with static electricity in cold weather and carpet. It's no reason not to buy them, and for your desired application (less expensive condenser for quality classical voice) I think it'd work well. Me, I'd choose Schoeps or Senn MKH8040s first, but the EW are a good third.

[plus6vu]

Jim,
Thanks for the comment. I have Schoeps and, like you, I like them a lot. What I don't have for them are the extension tubes and I can't afford them right now. Maybe in the next few years they'll get worked into the budget. But if you think the EW come in as a good third to Schoeps and MKH's, then I'm sure they'll work fine. I feel a little better about picking them up. I got them new for about 1/2 of street price.

Scott