I've found SP-CMC-9 which is apparently a good candidate -- http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/item/SP-CMC-9
Do you recommend it as a high-quality mic pair? Is it better than the cheaper SP-CMC-2 which the very same company offers?
Another issue is that the basic offering which requires plug-in power can't handle higher sound levels. So if I want to stick to my Sony PCM-D100 (without phantom power), keep the ease of use and simplicity of the basic config to the extent possible, and don't resort to separate cluncky cables, which SP-CMC-9 config do you recommend? As I also have the Olympus LS-100 at hand, I'd also like to know which config might suit that, too.
Thanks.
There seem to be horses of different colors in this...
The CA provides both and omni and card patterned capsules. In that regard it functions more like many full bodied mics (using capsules). Few of the other tiny mic options use a switchable capsule based paradigm.
That said there are a number of options. Part may depend on what you're recording and from where.
From SP I like (and use) their CMC-25's. I've been happy with those as my low-profile mics and they've gotten a lot of use. I've almost never been disappointed with the results. This is a card (and one of their high end models). Like most small mics (esp. cards) they can be lighter on the low end. IMO that can be an advantage at loud rock shows at any distance from the sound source. They come terminated into a standard minijack and the supplied clips make them easy to mount.
I don't favor omnis for what I record or how I use mics, so don't have much perspective on those. For very quiet shows (unamplified acoustic/classical/jazz) the DPA's have a considerably lower noise floor than pretty much everything else. Respectful crowds and the rest at that sort of show tend to make an omni more of a potential choice in that setting. I'd never use an omni in the typically chattering crowds at rock shows, nor even marginally back at a venue.
I'd get in touch with Chris at SP regarding the best option among their omnis based on your intended use/s if that is your preference so you at least clearly know your options.
The AT853 with subcard caps is more recommendable than the other capsules those can use. The subcard caps are very hard to find though (for that reason I'm sure). I've liked what I've heard recorded close from that combination, but not the standard card or omni caps.
I'd used a battery box for a while (with the SP's) but upgraded to a Tinybox which can also phantom power my full sized mics. It gives better results and a lot more flexibility. One of the nicest pieces of gear I can think of. It does have a long lead time to be built though (a reflection of the demand among the discerning here and elsewhere).