Useful cheap mic

[hyperlitem]

Im basically looking to expand the mic cabinent. I have several expensive mics, lots of condensors and such. Basically my bass mics, vocal mics, and many types of guitar and drum mics covered. Im looking for something more basic, definately a dynamic. Ive basically narrowed it down to these 3: Sennheiser e609, Audix i5, shure sm57. I know i know how did i get this far without any of these mics>? I want to buy a few for drum set and such. Do you think i should just buy one of each or is one much better than the other 2 for everything?

[Phalex]

They will all have their own unique qualities. For the sake of the soundmans sanity, I don't think mixing and matching is a great idea. I'm sure they are all good mic's, but I'd go with the ubiquitous Shure.

[Zinkff]

I know several people that swear by the Audix i5 as a more versatile mic than the Shure. Perhaps buy one of each to try and keep the one you like better.

[Nate74]

Originally Posted by Zinkff

I know several people that swear by the Audix i5 as a more versatile mic than the Shure. Perhaps buy one of each to try and keep the one you like better.

x2. I've had great luck with my i5 on guitar cabs and snares... sorry SM57 lovers...

[kZapner]

I'd grab a e609 to try. I've heard it's good on snare too. I'll be getting one soon enough.

[anderbass]

You probably already know about the more high-end dynamics:
Shure SM-7 / Sennheiser 421-441 / EV RE-20.
These are all very useful multi-purpose mics, and sometimes a
better choice than (much more) expensive condensers.

If you want a cool 57 alternative, you could also look for a good-used Shure (545) Unidyne III.
It's basically Shures origanal version of the SM-57, and (from what I've heard) the internal
differences are copper components to the 57s aluminum.

Many people seem to like this older version slightly better. (including myself, I own 4)

I bought a e-609 a while back and for some reason, I always
seem to find something else that works better for recording...

[brotherdave]

SM-57. Definitely.

People will laugh maybe, but try the Behringer XM8500. Now that is a cheap microphone! But it is surprisingly "Ok" for lots of things and pretty durable too. Nice plastic hard case and stand adapter included for $20. Not a Shure, but usable. I like how it sounds on an acoustic guitar and bongos.

[supermonkey]

Get a 57 or two. Great on guitar cabs and snares, useful for live vocals, recording toms. All-around good all-purpose dynamic mic.

I have heard good things about Audix mics, but have no experience with them.