Mic versatility

[thebigz]

Not sure if this is the correct category for this, but it seems like it kinda fits.

Anyway, I have a good line on some AKG 414s that I would just use for home recording and stuff. The question I have is how versatile are they? I would want to record vocals, acoustic guitars, drums, piano, and possibly electric guitars with these mics. I know these are high quality mics, but will they do a good job on all of this stuff? Also, will I be well served with 1 or do I need to get at least 2?

[Jack Napalm]

The AKG is a damn good mic. I would get two.

[toddstaples]

a 57 and a 414 on a Marshall 412 cabinet is a awesome combo....

[ozzuk1]

For that kind of stuff the AT 4033a's are very versatile mic's, especially with acoustic insturments, have no experience with that akg but have always good experience with the akg mic's I have used...

[Endrik]

414 is an awesome mic and very versatile, maybe not the best for every single thing (a la can sound a little bland for some singers etc.) but you can successfully record anything with it... what's even better is to get an 414 stereo pair.

[Dreamland_Rebel]

414's are great mics. you'll regret not getting 2 of them.
always get a pair of good mics. trust me.

[thebigz]

Do they sell them as normal and a matched pair, or do I just buy 2 of them and call it a pair?

[Endrik]

True Stereo pair is a matched pair, kinda like matched tube pair.

[Dreamland_Rebel]

if you can get them matched -cool
if not, just get 2. won't matter that much.

[thebigz]

Cool. Thanks for the info guys. I doubt I'll have the cash to plunk down on 2 at once, but we'll see. Haha.

[thebigz]

Well I'm getting close to grabbing one and the other will have to come later. 2 quick questions though

1. Am I going to notice a difference in quality with a 414 over the perception 220? The perception 220 is quite a bit cheaper and I could pick up 2 now for some sweet stereo action.

2. About the 48v phantom power... Are they all the same or are the better ones?

[Dreamland_Rebel]

condenser mic's take phantom power. its just a button on the mixer or mic pre. not something to be concerned with except to make sure that its on when using a condensor mic.

yes you will notice a difference. the 414 will sound crisper, cleaner, and more natural.

[hippietim]

What kind of line do you have on 414s? I'd like to snag a pair myself.