Well I was one of those heads who used both guns and cards. I am beginning the conversion process now. I posted my 1985 Fox's on the Sony's. I am working on the Merriwewther's now. They sound real good.
Now remember the Dead's PA was a real different animal than what we hear today. It had some punch. Heck today's smaller cabinets just cannot move as much air, the stereo mix was wider too. With that said there were different techniques or places to aim the mic's. I found that a level mic delivered the best low end. I also preferred the seats on the floor vs on the risers. But truly we had a bigger target with those wide array's vs these little narrow strips they use today.
Actually I would like to get those Sennheiser ME-80's back and play around with them. I guess I need to try and recontact an old friend. I actually have another reason to check in with him, need to stop procrastinating.