I don't have my preamp with my rig yet, and that's my next step. Let me first off say what my needs are (my recording goals are quite a bit different than most on the board). I need my rig to be extremely portable. I also need quick set up and tear down times (though I can get away with not tearing down all the way). It needs to be portable and hand held (though part of the rig can be carried in my bag). So far, I am recording with AT853's (SP model)>BB>JB3.
As far as sound quality goes, I would prefer something that has a bright, crisp, detailed sound as opposed to something "warm". To hear an example of the type of thing I record, listen here:
www.drumlineparkinglot.net/dci/Karl's 03 files/03SCVbook3.mp3It always looked like a Sony SBM-1 was the right piece of gear for me, but those are increasingly hard to find. My question is, what are the sound differences between an SBM-1, a mod SBM-1, and an AD-20? I might pick up a mod SBM-1 (they seem to be easier to find right now) but I am afraid the warmness of the mod will take away detail that I want (the AT 853's are already on the dark side tonally). I am also hesitant to get an AD-20, because people seem dissatisfied with the sound, but that may be my only option at this point?
Also, my budget right now is about $350, but I might be able to stretch into the $500 range for a mod SBM. Can't afford anything in the $900+ range!
thanks!