Dynamic Microphones

We'll start with mics, since that's the first thing in your chain, after having a great sounding source instrument or voice, of course. I focus on not just getting the best budget mic possible, but also being able to use that mic in as many possible situations as possible. I won't be covering all the different options for dynamic mics here, just the cheaper ones that are still great mics. I've found that once I got these two mics, I didn't really need any more dynamic mics.


Audix I-5
My first tip is to learn how to say NO TO SM-57s! OK, so everybody recommends them as great all-around workhorse mics, and if you have one around you might as well use it. But those who have tested them against other mics, like the Audix I-5, know that you can get better results for the same price. The Audix I-5 and the Shure SM-57 both currently retail for $99 USD, but the audix will get you better results close micing a snare or guitar cab. I haven't heard about other uses, but that's enough right there for me to put my money on Audix. Having said that, I still have a sm-57 for various uses like micing underneath the snare, or whatever.






Audio Technica ATM-25
This is a great for picking up low frequency sources like kick drum, bass cabinet, floor tom, etc. I've tried it against the Shure Beta 52-A on kick, and while there wasn't a huge difference, I definitely preferred the ATM25. I've heard from others that based on trying the two on various different bass cabs and kicks, the ATM25 wins out more consistently than the 52A. I've also heard it said that it sounds identical to the Sennheiser 421, which is an excellent and well known mic that goes for twice the price. Some places don't carry the ATM25 anymore, but the price difference is worth it when you do find it, right now you can get it for $139 CAD, and the Shure is $189 USD. I just saved you over $50! Okay I'm cheap.