Shure SM57 + DI... vs. AKG D112 + DI

[Aaron]

I've heard good results from an SM57 for capturing an upper-midrangey rocker tone (p-bass with rounds played with a pick). I'm more of a p-bass with flats played fingerstyle kind of guy, so the RE20 is my go-to mic for a lot of stuff.

 

[Colarndo]

I prefer RE-20 over D112. You just get sick of the D112 sound.
MD 421 II isn't that bad too. Used it on guitars before.

 

[D.A.R.K.]

i would use whatever the track needs. if the bass needs more low mid to sit in the mix, i'd try the d112 first. if it needs to cut more, i'd try the 57 first. if it needs a big hollow tone, i might put a 57 in an empty metal trash can next to the speaker cabinet (yes, i've done this with really cool sounding, usable results).
i think perhaps you are putting the cart before the horse...
you need to know what the track calls for first, imho....
just like choosing the right bassline to play.
both mics mentioned are standard, inexpensive studio tools
that can achieve excellent results in the right scenario.

 

[Sounbwoy]

I have a vintage 421 that you would have to pry from my cold dead hands. Its one of the most versitile mics for electric instruments. Ive heard people using it on vox but ive never tried it.

The first generation was primarily used in radio.

 

[GreyBeard]

It is my understanding that the D112 has a very scooped response. For MICing my bass cab, I like a mic that is as flat as possible. I've had good results with a CAD e100 condenser.