Cascade microphones

[underdog]

Hey All,

I am trying to decide on what microphone to use in my home studio setup (I'd be using it to record podcasts with others and music soon enough). I need a relatively inexpensive device and good sounding (obviously).

My other choices at the moment are:
1. AKG Perception 120
2. Audio-Technica AT2020
3. Samson C01
4. Behringer C3
5. Cascade m20u

Do you guys have anymore suggestions?

Your thoughts are appreciated. Thanks!

[garageband]

Your thoughts are appreciated.

Budget about $200 and get something dramatically better than anything listed. Rode NT-1A and stuff about that level. Of your list, I wouldn't spend my money on any of it.

[Bigduggieface]

As usual, garageband provides the perfect response. I'm here to second not only the Rode NT-1A, but more importantly on the $200 cost threshold.

If you're only podcasting, you may be able to get away with a mic priced at less than $200. If you are recording any instruments and want a versatile mic, buy the NT-1A. It sounds great and it will last you a lifetime. If you buy a cheaper mic, be prepared to be dissatisfied.

[mindundermatter]

While I agree with the previous posts, I'll just say that if I had to choose from that list it'd be the AT2020. It's probably not as good as it's big brother mics, but I tend to like how ATs sound in general. I would never buy anything made by Behringer, PERIOD. The AKG Perception mics are absolute crap. I've used them and ended up dissatisfied every time. I've heard decent things about the Samson C01, but I've never used one myself and don't plan to. I've never even heard of that Cascade mic (which rules it out by default).

[garageband]

I find Behringer's change of slogan very funny. It used to be:
"First We Listen (, then we build crap)"
Now it's:
"Just Listen (to the crap we built)"

[mindundermatter]

That's a good way of putting it. "Buy our stuff because it's cheap (and crappy)"

[brandondrury]

I've used the AT2020 a bit in the past month or two. It'll be going on Ebay here soon now that I'm done with my shootouts. 30 Days of Recording Equipment Shootouts | Home Computer Recording

It doesn't exactly excite me, but with a good source and a good room I can make this thing work at least some of the time. So it's not like it's absolute vomit. There are just more exciting options out there.

I've never used that Cascade microphone. I've got an Elroy coming my way which I'm fairly excited about trying out. The Fathead II is a very nice mic and it's quality is excellent for the price point it hits.

Brandon

[underdog]

Hey all. Thanks for the opinions. I'm still not exactly sure on what to get, but I'm keeping my eyes open for deals and such.

Thanks again.

[brandondrury]

Actually, another mic you may want to look at is the Karma K-35. I remember liking it quite a bit in a number of the shootouts and it's a pretty good bargain. Just make sure you have a strong mic stand because it's heavy.

Brandon

[thejusticelair]

ive used the cascade (upgrade version not standard) and its nice!