>>im not absolutely sure, but im PRETTY sure,
you can't. Phantom power is across 3 terminals. Phantom voltage is across Pin 2 respect to ground and Pin 3 respect to ground.
>>my guess, knowing darren's clientel, is that they aren't using phantom power no matter what the connector- most of his stuff is going to lower end stealthers...
probably so. but, my answer to his original question was that a condenser mic's full potential will not be reached by using unbalanced connection which leads to the question of how a condensor mic is going to be powered. specs for the AT853a (which can be powered by either a battery or phantom) clearly shows the difference in dynamic range and SPL handling.
marc