Topic: Which alternative for a pair of Milab DC-196 mics for Euro 2,300?

[Napo]

Milab mics are praised in our community as high-end mics, but they come at hefty price: I was quoted 2,300 Euro (before tax) 

Which alternative mics would you suggest for that price? I  tape mostly jazz in controlled environment like auditorium.

Is it possble to spend less for a large diagram mic's?

Best from Rome, Italy

[acidjack]

People here seem to like the ADK-TL's which are substantially less (less than $1000 per pair new; maybe $600 per pair used).  The AKG 414 mics are excellent LDs at around $1000/pr used (check eBay - lots of old studio ones for sale including stereo pairs).  Busman also makes an LD mic though that would need to be shipped from the US, so probably not optimal for you in Italy.

In Italy, I'd at least ask about the AKGs and see what you can do on the ADKs.  Many samples of both on the LMA.

[Napo]

acidjack,

thanks for the good leads. I wil investigate them.

[tcf]

Next to milab I'd look at nevaton. Pm tnjazzgtass for some quotes.

[Fried Chicken Boy]

+1 on the AKG 414's.  I'm a huge fan and it's pretty difficult to find an LD mic with as many options in that price range.  That being said, I'd also add the Audio-Technica AT4050's to the list of alternatives to the Milab.  Great sound and underrated, a pair can be had for around $1000 new and less than that on eBay or if you can find them used.

[notlance]

A nice LDC that can sometimes be found in the US for about US$600 is the Beyerdynamic MC740.  A very under rated mic IMHO.  The MC840 is the transformerless version of the mic and it sells in the US for more than the 740, but less than $1000.  A cardioid only version is the MC834, which can be had for around $600 also.  These are all prices for used mics.

The only problem with these mics are they are relatively scarce in the US, so it is hard to find used ones for sale here.  Perhaps you would have better luck finding them in Europe.

[Napo]

T+, notlance.

Opening up my horizon