condenser mics.

[Dave Frye]

How many bass singers use a condenser mic to record. Is it really a must to use one? I had a session just last nite where a bass singer refused to sing without one. So+++++++++need to know! Ole Dave Frye

[Geoff Brown]

Hmm..refused to sing? Sounds a bit stuffy, but to each their own. Most folks (even po' folks like me w/ a little home studio) have a decent condenser mic though. That's not to say you can't get good vocal recordings without one. But a decent condenser would be the ticket for gettng some nice sounds, particularly vocals. Something like an Audio Technica AT4050, or AT 4033 is very nice, and reasonably affordable. Even your upscale, high-end studios have a few of these mics layin' around. Hope this helps

[Stephen Gambrell]

The 4033 is a GREAT mike. I bought one several years ago, for my home studio, saw several other bluegrass bands using one 4033 instead of 8 or 10 57s or 58s. And, they've gotten cheaper over the years! Get one!

[Ian Finlay]

Hiya,

I'm occasionally a Bass singer in a Doo Wop band, and I think I can guess why this guy insisted on a condenser....

Typically (warning: gross generalisation coming up!) a good condenser will have a smooth proximity effect while still capturing the feel of the amount of air I have to move to get the low notes with any volume. With something like an SM58 I get the low notes but a lot of the punch is lost. Mind you, the popping can be a problem if you're singing Doo Wop!

Having said all that, there are condensers, and then there are condensers! A quality large diaphragm condenser will do the job well. Even a small diameter one, like an AKG 451/CK1 may sound cool. Then try a top dynamic - I like the Sennheiser 441 - and they can work well too!

Ian

[Dave Frye]

Thanx Guys, I am shoppin g for a condenser mic ! Thanx Again Ole DaVe Frye