stereo mic for recording environments?

[mikrokev]

Hi,

Am looking for any suggestions on stereo microphones to record different environments. From offices to restaurants or quiet fields in the middle of nowhere. Its to be used as background sound in a radio drama, so the main concern is that the recordings don't have too much hiss or noise.

The mic will be used with a field recorder, that may have phantom power. Depends which one I get. My budget for the microphone is not a huge amount- $300 to $500.

Have seen the Rode NT4. Any other suggestions appreciated!

[John Willett]

Although the NT4 is a nice little stereo mic. I would forget it for your use.

Because you are using it with a field recorder in all sorts of places, you will need to fit it in a windshield for outdoor use.

The NT4 really only fits in a large basket windshield - which will really push your udget.

Personally, I would consider the Beyer MCE 72 as this will fit nicely in a Rycote S-series windshield - the whole lot should be within budget.

It will also fit into a Rycote Softie if you want to go that way.

Most stereo mics are too "fat" at the front to be able to windshield easily the Beyer MCE 72 seems to be the best in this respect.



I hope this helps.

[mikrokev]

Hi thankls for your response

That's interesting.. I was reading about this microphone earlier, at soundonsound magazine's website.

I was put off by the review as it said that it wasn't particularly suited for recording quieter sounds. Do you think that's fair?

[John Willett]

our budget is very low and good stereo mics cost a *lot* of money.

Also, many cheaper stereo mics have large heads, which make them difficult to windshield.

The cheaper ones do tend to have a higher self-noise, though.

But - there is a big price gap between the affordable ones and the pro. ones which cost several thousand.

[David C.]

I've had good luck with the AT 822. It's got a big head but came with a wind screen it seems like. I've never used it, never recorded outside on a windy day. It sounds really good. I used to wire it into the ceiling at clubs and record our band in front of the mains. Also made many room recordings that sound great.

[Prick Up UR Ears]

Originally Posted by John Willett

Although the NT4 is a nice little stereo mic. I would forget it for your use.

Because you are using it with a field recorder in all sorts of places, you will need to fit it in a windshield for outdoor use.

The NT4 really only fits in a large basket windshield

the NT4 nicely fits in a Baby Ballgag of Rycote
works fine for me!
when its terribly windy I pull a dead cat over it as well