Condenser or dynamic mic for vocals?

Tejay71093 · #1 10-11-2013, 04:23 PM

I have an audix om-6 that I use for live gigs and recording. Would a condenser mic be better for recording vocals than the om-6? Thanks!

muscmp · #2 10-11-2013, 04:56 PM

condenser should be much better but also more sensitive and you'll have to get used to it.

play music!

Tejay71093 · #3 10-11-2013, 05:07 PM

What's a good condenser for vocals? $150-200 range but it'd need to sound better than the audix om-6. Does that mic exist?

ljguitar · #4 10-11-2013, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tejay71093

I have an audix om-6 that I use for live gigs and recording. Would a condenser mic be better for recording vocals than the om-6? Thanks!

Hi Tejay...

For serious recordings, PA microphones and studio microphones are different animals. There are good dynamic mics for PA work, and good condensers for PA work, and it's really a personal choice. And what are your issues with the Audix OM6?

I still use an SM-58 (or similar) non-condenser mic with PA systems. Sure I own better (including a Shure SM-86a), but I get great sound and feedback resistance from mics others consider 'ordinary' or 'plain-Jane'.

For recording in studio, I like either my AKG 414 or my Shure KSM-44 for vocals.

So a condensor mic with a large diaphragm mic would be better for recording, yes.

RRuskin · #5 10-11-2013, 08:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tejay71093

I have an audix om-6 that I use for live gigs and recording. Would a condenser mic be better for recording vocals than the om-6? Thanks!

Most condensers will be more sensitive which translates into needing less gain from your mic pre to get a given level than from a dynamic or ribbon mic. Whether or not that will ultimately be "better" can only be determined by trying one out and hearing for yourself.

Tejay71093 · #6 10-11-2013, 09:15 PM

Thanks for the responses. I'm very happy with the om6 live and I've used it to record, I was wondering if a condenser would be "better" for recording than the om6. I saw a audio technica at4033 used on ebay for about $170, reviews look good. I would maybe spend a little more if needed but not very much more. Anyone have experience with these?

RockerDuck · #7 10-12-2013, 08:07 AM

The only microphone that you can use live and in the studio, IMHO, is a
Heil Pr35. It is a large diaphragm mic that puts you right in the mix. I used lesser priced condenser mic's in my studio that I thought were good, until I recorded with the PR35. I also thought my Beta 58 used live was great, until I used the PR35 live. I'm not the best singer, but the only time I got compliments on my singing was with the PR35 mic.

buzzardwhiskey · #8 10-12-2013, 07:35 PM

Both the Audio Technica AT2010 and their MB 4K/c are under $100 and are super clear, I've used the latter on practically everything. The AKG C5 is under $200 is is quite nice.

J Patrick · #9 10-13-2013, 07:58 AM

...while there is no denying that a quality condenser microphone is superior in terms of sensitivity, sibilance and frequency response....it should be noted that a plain old SM58 is often used in studio and live situations with excellent results...as always it has a lot to do with who is singing into the mic and how the signal is treated before it gets to the listeners ears....a good mic preamp can make an ordinary dynamic mic sound pretty darn good...

KevWind · #10 10-13-2013, 11:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tejay71093

I have an audix om-6 that I use for live gigs and recording. Would a condenser mic be better for recording vocals than the om-6? Thanks!

What exactly is the rest of your recording chain ?

tomana · #11 10-15-2013, 10:42 PM

this one ... here's why :

Quote
At $200, the RE410 is about 28% of the cost of the other test mics. The other manufacturers (except Neumann) have vocal condensers in this price range, so the RE410 is unfairly out of its price range. However, the mic’s performance kept it in the game through all of the tests.
End Quote

http://wirebenderaudio.blogspot.com/...-shootout.html

mutantrock · #12 10-20-2013, 07:38 AM

My personal preference is a condenser mic for both live and studio vocals. I am talking about acoustic live. I use a dynamic for rock because they are less feedback prone. I have one condenser that is really good for both live and studio ..the Neumann KMS 105.

Tejay71093 · #13 10-22-2013, 03:01 PM

Is the Neuman better than an om-6 for live vocals?

Tejay71093 · #14 10-22-2013, 03:33 PM

Just checked the price tag on the Neuman, I'm sure it's a great mic but too expensive for me

bayoubengal · #15 10-23-2013, 12:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tejay71093

Just checked the price tag on the Neuman, I'm sure it's a great mic but too expensive for me

I have both the om6 and the KMS 105 and the 105 is better to my ears (it is expensive, but I did buy mine used). However, I use the om6 if I am using a PA that does not have phantom power or if I am playing in a particularly noisy room and I have always been very happy with it. So I would not recommend replacing it. If you find another mic that you love at a price you can afford, buy that as an addition to your gear. That om6 will serve you well into the future.