So I probably shouldn't use the CAD M179 for portable field recording without wall power? Should I simply avoid phantom power requiring microphones in general and go straight into the Tascam DR-1/GT-R1? The thing is, most low-end (<$400 for a pair) microphones I've read about that are good with bowed strings are condensers that require 48v. I have read that the MXL 603s works with the Zoom H4, so I'm guessing its power specifications aren't dreadfully high.
If 90dB is poor, what's a solid budget spec for signal-to-noise in preamps? Remember, depth and detail are more important to me than noise floor. Just so you know, the spec is "greater than 90 dB (Ref 0 dBu)."
Not at 10dBA, it won't be. Ambient noise, however, you must always deal with; that depends on the venue and whether or not there is an audience.
What do you mean? Sorry, I'm still pretty clueless...
Ok, so I did some research regarding the USB Dual Pre...correct me if I'm wrong:
current (mA) = voltage (v) / resistance (k ohms)
12mA = 48v / 4k ohms
So,
in theory, the Art USB Dual Pre should deliver 12 mA, right? But this is relying on their own spec sheet, which should not necessarily be trusted.
So I did a little more work:
It can be run with 100% efficiency on a 9v battery (~500 mAh capacity), and the battery lasts approximately 20 hours with phantom power (according to their specs).
Battery capacity (mAh) = time * draw (mA)
500mAh / 20 hours = 25mA draw
Is 25mA enough to power two microphones and amplify their signal? If 18mA is being used to just power the microphones, that only leaves 7mA for whatever else it has to do.
Is there any way to tell if your microphone is running optimally? mshillarious mentioned that a microphone may work, but not to its potential under less-than-optimal conditions. Is there any way to detect whether or not the microphone is just getting by? I'm afraid that when I test the CAD M179s with a given preamp, they may work, but I may never know that they could sound better with adequate power. I really think that the CAD M179s are the best microphones sound-wise for my situation, but if they require too much power, I guess I won't be able to use them.
Thanks for all your help.