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Microphone frequency response comparison

#2
Yessir, that is helpful. I used this site when I was comparing mics for possible purchase as well.
Were you looking at the RE20? I'd recommend giving the Heil PR40 a look as well. I chose that one at the time I was researching cab mics, and am so glad I did. Two weeks ago I was able to get a side by side comparison of the two on my rig, and the Heil had all that the RE20 had, but more. The RE20 was lacking a little gusto that was present in the Heil.
 
#3
yep those are my top two choices. :) the RE20 is winning right now. i really like the idea of having one less thing in the chain to have to adjust for and that's what it would give me since it's near completely flat. Heil has more of a proximity effect for better or worse, is hotter, is a little more colored, more above 1.5k, lighter, more durable. but i'm sure you knew all this :p i may just get both and return the one i don't prefer.

the gusto you speak of, can you pinpoint anything specifically?
 
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#4
KeithPoker said:
the gusto you speak of, can you pinpoint anything specifically?
Click to expand...

Well... knowing pretty much next to nothing about microphones, I really can't be of much technical help. I can explain what I was hearing in a completely dumbed down version, for what it's worth though. Maybe it was a little of the proximity effect you were mentioning, but both mics placed in the exact same position, I was getting just a little bit more out of the Heil. The tone was a little more full (perhaps a little baked in voicing), and just seemed to be a preferable signal for me. I was finding personally, that the Heil almost had a great EQ from the start, where the RE20 would've taken a little bit of EQ'ing to sit where I personally hear the tone out of my cab.

In a generic and non-descript answer - the Heil just seemed more "alive" to me. It's also worked out really well mic'ing other things, including baritone sax.

I know this probably doesn't help much, but it's an answer :)

Maybe some of the other guys on here with actual knowledge can chime in with opinions...
 
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#5
hey there's plenty a frequency plot can't describe. i've heard a lot how good the Heil is low mids. maybe it's the proximity effect right. the last time I played with Ampeg SVX software the RE20 wasn't my first choice. i couldn't move the mic placement in that version though, i think it can be moved now.

thank you very much!
 
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#6
On axis tells you some, but not all of the story. Most of the manufacturers won't publish and don't want detailed comparisons of comprehensive response data plots.

Also, transient response has a significant effect on the sound and won't be revealed on a steady state frequency plot.

Otto
 

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