Your final beginner's rig should look similar to this:
SuperLux mics > 2x XLR cables * > PS2 ** (or ART Phantom 3) > AD20 *** > JB3 (or recorder with optical SPDIF input).
* The XLR cables can be bought at most music stores. They have a male 3-pin XLR plug on one end and a female on the other. Get 2 15' cables, you'll need the length once your mics are 10' in the air on the new stand. Find a cheap "light" stand on EBAY (mine was $30), and then buy the mic thread adapter (~$5).
** The PS2 or ART 3 provides Phantom Power. The Superlux requires 48v, which both the PS2 and ART supply. Both run off batteries. Each provides an analog output.
*** You will need to run the phantom line out into a preamp to increase gain (turn up volume). Most recorders have an internal preamp, so this is optional. If you get a Nomad 3, you can run the phantom line-in into the Nomad and use the Nomad's internal preamp to adjust gain. Or you can get an external preamp, like the AD20. Some units include both phantom and preamp in one device. The Sound Devices MP2 is a great example as is the Lunatec V2.
The AD20 is also an analog>digital convertor. This will convert the analog signal to a SPDIF signal that many recorders use. There are 2 kinds of SPDIF - coax (looks like a single RCA plug) or TOSLINK (usually called Optical). The Nomad 3 and most MD players use optical, while most DATs use coax.
Most people like to use external preamps and AD convertors because the separate pieces allow for more fine-tuning of the signal, and also reduces any electronic noise that may be generated from a spinning hard-drive recorder, etc. Plus the more gadgets, the better, right!?!
There are also devices that do all 3 in one box. The UA5 is such a device, although you MUST get one modified for stand-alone use in order for it to be useful. 2 common mods are the Oade Mods (Warm, Presence, Transparent) and the BusMan Mods. The Lunatec V3 is another such device.
As for prices, etc. I'd stick with the SuperLux, get the ART3, and the Nomad 3. For now, these items will give you great starter tapes until you can upgrade. I'd say the first upgrade should be going from ART3 to a UA5.
Other things you'll need:
-cable from ART3 to Nomad 3. You'll have to check with the ART3 to see exactly what you need...
-carry bag. Some people use a padded 12-pack cooler bag from WalMart. Cheap, padded, water-resistant, and easy.
-flashlight, pens, paper, duct tape, velcro cable-ties...
Good luck!
Terry
