Sorry, that was harsh. There seems to be a problem here, though, with people responding with knee-jerk comments--despite my extensive explanation of my needs--and I took a little of that out on you. Apologies. And every day is beautiful when you're me 
Apology accepted, thank you.
But, I wasn't responding with a 'knee-jerk comment', I just want a 788 and thought you would appreciate the offer.
Perhaps the reason that you are not getting the answers you are looking for is because your question is very hard to answer.
There are tons on microphones out there that will serve your purpose and how you like the results will be a combination of what you find you like and how well you are at using your tools. You see, many people here have a sickness of always switching up gear.
But, this sickness is how people learn about the sound and functions of different tools. It takes a long time to get familiar with different recording techniques and gear and how they sound...the similarities and differences.
Perhaps some people find it a little comical that someone self labeling himself as a 'new taper' is buying one of the most expensive portable recorders on the market when there are plenty of recorders for 10-20% the price that will also give you good results.
I think it is interesting that you want Schoeps CCM microphones because I want those too.
But, I know exactly what they sound like and why I want them (not exactly related).
Most people here have started off with great sounding economically reasonable rigs. They learned the sound of different microphones and recording techniques. Then, if they felt it was needed, they would swap out gear to tailor it for their needs and desires. But, without investing time learning and really getting to know what you want, then it is hard for someone to tell you what you need.
By explaining that you NEED 4 stereo pairs to record your situations, people will definitely raise an eyebrow as this might be perceived as an odd method to record the scenario you speak of. I am not doubting that you need 8 channels, but is this really the best way to do it? Perhaps, might be cool, but....
Recording is a hobby for some, a business for others, but for most, an art form and skill that requires more than getting the right tool. And, that skill leads people to know what tools they need. It does not work the other way, the tools don't make you good at recording and having the best tools money can buy doesn't mean you will be good at using them.
I know plenty of professionals that can make incredible recordings with microphones that cost under $100 each, plenty of craftsmen that have old tools and can make beautiful functional and non-functional art/furniture/constructions. AND, I have heard plenty of recordings that were way sub-par on $10,000+ of gear as well as people with the best saw and tools in their garage that can't hammer a nail or cut a board straight. Skills first, gear later, then your skills will tell you what your gear should be.
I'm not trying to lecture you here, I'm just trying to give you insight on why you may not be getting the fast easy answers that you desire. I also respect that fact that you are here, trying to learn and asking people, this is a great way to get familiar with what is out there but don't expect people to give you the answers that you want. You are asking for free advise and they are giving you free advise...the price is right
Perhaps you can also look around at the gearslutz board and see what kind of responses you get there. You might also pick out some CDs that you really like, ask yourself what you like and don't like about the recording. Then look in the CD to see if they credit the gear. If not, perhaps an email to the artist or recording engineer...I'm sure they will tell you.
Anyhow, best of luck to you and I wish you the best on your journey!
Topic: Specific mic and setup advice requested for SD 788 non-stealth--new taper (Read 9476 times)