And, for classical music, small diaphragm condenser mics work well because they offer fast transient response, which is also crucial to accurate sound reproduction.
Several condenser mics seem to stand out from the crowd:
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| Neumann KM-140 |
Neumann KM-140 costs about $1,300
Neumann KM-184 costs about $1,600
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| Neumann KM-84 |
The KM-84, an older version of the KM-184, is also an excellent mic. It is a little darker than the 184.
Unfortunately, the KM-84 is a bit noisy. Still, there are many studios who swear by them.
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| Schoeps CMC5 |
Another wonderful choice is the Schoeps CMC5 body with an MK4 capsule, which has a very flat frequency response and transparent sound. The Schoeps seems to have a little less treble than the Neumanns. This is because the Neumanns have a small treble spike and are not quite as flat as the Schoeps in frequency response.
Each Schoeps MK4 costs about $1,700 (and you need a pair!)
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| AMT 404 |
AMT 404
On the less expensive end, AMT (Applied Microphone Technology) recently released condenser studio mics (AMT 404, set of 2) that have a very flat frequency response and are great for the home studio. They are also much cheaper than competing options (around $240 for the pair!).
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| Royer R-121 |
Although they are frequently recommended for recording acoustic violin, I have NOT been happy with ribbon mics, such as the Royer R-121. To my taste, these mics lose a lot of the character of the violin and makes the sound seem one-dimensional. They cut off a lot of the high-end. (This may seem good when comparing the Royer to a cheap condenser mic, which can make the violin sound overly bright and harsh.) Royers really are best for acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and brass.
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| AKG c451E |
AKG c451E
Another frequently recommended mic, the AKG c451E, sounds very harsh to my ear and has heavy treble emphasis. This mic is really best for percussion and acoustic guitar.
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| Apogee Duet |
Audio Interface: Don't forget that your choice of audio interface is also very important. If you have a mac, you will need one that supplies phantom power (48 volts to power the mics). For the mac user, the Apogee Duet with phantom power is a great option for around $500. There is really no competition for the duet in that price range. Because it has only two inputs, the duet is cheaper than other, similar models with multiple inputs that can cost over $2000.
Mic Placement: Also, your choice of mic placement and number of mics is important. Recording in stereo is crucial to the classical sound, and, for the best results, mics are usually placed at least three feet from the violin and often overhead. One mic might be used to capture the violin more closely, and the other to capture the "room," which can add body and reverb to the sound. Experimentation is often the best way to find optimal mic placement.
The "room" is also very important. Small diaphragm condenser mics are very sensitive, and will pick up virtually every sound in the vicinity, even the hum from your refrigerator. So try to make the room as quiet as you can (even if you have to unplug that refrigerator!). A big room is usually better than a small one. (small rooms can make the sound seem muddy or poorly defined). High ceilings are usually good. Breaking up parallel walls helps minimize echoes and reflections. Furnished rooms can do the same. Hardwood floors are very good for the sound.
And if all else fails, there is always the recording studio.....
