Apex microphones.

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Someone mentioned these too me in another thread, and i've had a look about and think this calls for a new thread!

I had a quick search and there wasnt much info on these.

But here we go,

Im looking at the:

• Apex 435 condenser
• Apex 415 condenser
  
• Apex 770 dynamic
  
• Apex 180 pencil condenser

Firstly, would anyone be able to compare or let me in on what the differences between the two wide diaphram condensers are? The 415 is more expensive and has a few different modes, but other than that, would the 435 be as good a condenser (looking at doing vocals and bass/guitar cabs).

Secondly, the Apex 770, how would this stack up against the Shure (spelt it right this time ) SM57? Im mainly asking as I could get two of these for the price of one SM57. And as Apex seem to be linked in someway to yorkville, im pretty sure they wont be dire!

Finally, the Apex 180 pencil condensers, what would these be used for? And are they something worth while having in a home studio?
You may think im stupid for asking about something I have no idea about, but the reason is there is a mic pack (SP1 IIRC), which comes with the Apex 435 and 2x Apex 180s, and it is only £20 more expensive than the Apex 435 alone, so basically getting two pencil condenser mics and the shockmounts for them for £20 (not a great expense!)

Cheers for the help guys!

- Will

 

[mrufino1]

apex 435 is a great mic- I have 3 of them. I used them very successfully on a bass rig for a recording earlier this summer. The rig was in stereo, and we used mic and DI on each side- the sound came out great. I also like them on overheads, horns, and some vocals. It is a fairly bright mic so on something really bright already it may not be the best choice, but I really like it. Plus, it is $60 with the shockmount- when you are recording young bands who have not much regard for stepping on your things, etc., these work great when you don't want to bring really expensive things out but still get a good sound. Now I just need to get some expensive things to leave at home...

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Have you had a chance to try it on a guitar amp?

Cheers for the reply

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Bump

 

[Discount Saint]

I bought an Apex 381, which I was told is basically an SM58 capsule in a different casing. Seems to work pretty well for me, but I'm no recording genius, by any means. Wasn't THAT much cheaper than the SM57 though.. but it did come with a decent XLR cable and a mount.

 

[blipndub]

I agree the 435 is an outstanding value, I have two of them. I have used them on bass cabs and guitar amps with success. They are definitely brighter than my comparison MXL 2001 so I wasn't crazy with the Apex on vocals. Great example of cheap Chinese made mic that holds its own.

 

[superflybass]

I love my apex mics there are a great value
I know some studios the I sold them to when I worked retail that still love them even know the have much more $$ ones

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

So would the Apex 435 + Shure SM57 + a pop filter be a worthwhile shopping list to make a move up past the behringer cheapy dynamics?

 

[bluestarbass]

Ive never tried apex mics but usually where I hear about them the most is in mod forums. People love modding those mics. Thats not to say they arent good to begin with, but like amazing when they are modded. Oktava mics are the same way, they are good, until michael joly gets done with them, then they are great.

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Ive never tried apex mics but usually where I hear about them the most is in mod forums. People love modding those mics. Thats not to say they arent good to begin with, but like amazing when they are modded. Oktava mics are the same way, they are good, until michael joly gets done with them, then they are great.

Ive also heard alot about modding them, which is something i might give a shot once i get it, but would see if it needed it first

(i just like toying and modding with things too much)

 

[The Owl]

I agree the 435 is an outstanding value, I have two of them. I have used them on bass cabs and guitar amps with success. They are definitely brighter than my comparison MXL 2001 so I wasn't crazy with the Apex on vocals. Great example of cheap Chinese made mic that holds its own.

+1! I have one I've used for percussion overdubs and such, amazing value for the money! I even bought one for a buddy of mine doing his first home studio.

Ditto on the 415 as well (this has come in handy for me too!), and the 180's are very good as drum overheads and close mic-ing an acoustic guitar or violin.

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Is there any great tonal difference between the 435 and the 415? I know the 415 has the various polar patterns, is that the only difference?

 

[The Owl]

Is there any great tonal difference between the 435 and the 415? I know the 415 has the various polar patterns, is that the only difference?

I have both mic's. The only tonal difference comes about with the 415 when you put it on a figure 8 pattern, you get a little extra low end due to proximity effect.

 

[i_got_a_mohawk]

Ive not bought one yet, but thanks for that

I was planning on getting the 435, and think ill stick with it if there aint too much difference! Means i can put a bit more cash towards a tube condensor.

When i get some money anyways (on both counts)