Topic: Mic Choice : DPA-4061 or AT-943 or DSM-6S L

[Datfly]

I have only used Sonic Studios DSM-6P mics to stealth with since 1992 but it is now time for new mics

I am looking for a mic set up that is minimal such as Mics > R-09 (will use battery box if a must)

I will only use these mics occasionally and it will be most likely in arenas wherever my seat happens to be
though I am sure there will be the times in between where I can get close to a stack as well.

My interest is in these mics.

1. Core Sound HEB 4060
2. SP-CMC-8 (AT-943 )
3. Sonic Studios DSM-6S L

CS HEB 4060 does seem the popular choice at $ 1,000.00

The SP-CMC-8 (AT-943) choice seems cool as you can switch from Omnis to Cards depending on the situation
and you can get all this & a battery box for half the price of the CS HEB 4060 mics.

The Sonics sound good because , well, I liked my Sonics ! (again half the price of the HEB's)

I do want the mic's to be able to handle a PA stack.

Is there any comparison here or is there an obvious choice?

Again I want minimal - small - stealthy - no bulk.

Thanks for any input.
Datfly

[bluntforcetrauma]

I sent you a PM over at u2torrents.  Did ya get it? Just my .02 cents

[guysonic]

If you like the unique sound of your Sonics, then having them refurbished (if in workable shape) is possible, or suggest upgrade to newer DSM-6S/L or louder handling /EL set. 

Mic models and customer service is discussed on page: www.sonicstudios.com/dsm.htm

Many have had DSM mic sets from earlier times running on stock Sony DAT D7/8 models directly powering these mics in an OK manner or best with MOD-2 mic powering internal deck upgrade.   

However, some updated to the newer/way better performing D100/M1 Sony deck THAT DOES NOT POWER DSM mics in an acceptable manner causing gross distortions at higher loudness levels.  These Sony decks need MOD-2 internal upgrade, or PA mic powering adapter, or external mic powering preamplifier. 

DSM mic powering options are discussed with solution options depending on deck models at: www.sonicstudios.com/pa_x.htm

[boa]

I am looking for a mic set up that is minimal such as Mics > R-09 (will use battery box if a must)

- HEllo Datfly! Good to see you here. I can comment on the first two mics you listed as having owned them.

CS HEB 4060 does seem the popular choice at $ 1,000.00

- The HEB's (4061's) I have used since 2001 and they have never failed due to overload (you can tape them to the stack), moisture (withstood the rain at Red Rocks) and
are by far the smallest capsule out of the three you are looking into. I've seen pairs terminated into 1/8" available on ebay for a lot less than $1000 and they do pop up on the yard sale here from time to time. TapeApe has a pair he hasnt used in years and might sell as well.

The SP-CMC-8 (AT-943) choice seems cool as you can switch from Omnis to Cards depending on the situation
and you can get all this & a battery box for half the price of the CS HEB 4060 mics.

- These are the mics I went to from AT803/831b's for just the reasons you mentioned; the caps, price and I thought would be better sounding. My first two attempts with it the mics overloaded (TBC and George Clinton) so I went right to the DPA's when I could afford them. 

The Sonics sound good because , well, I liked my Sonics ! (again half the price of the HEB's)

I always liked your Sonic tapes too, but I have never used a pair myself.

[deadhoarse]

I am looking for a mic set up that is minimal such as Mics > R-09 (will use battery box if a must)

1. Core Sound HEB 4060

My vote is for these, I have a set of the 4061's.  I'm pleased with the results I get with these mics in a variety of situations. I do need a preamp in almost every situation though, but if you go with the 4060's, you might not need one.

A word of caution if you go with the HEB variation:  They are terminated into a mini-XLR which will only work with their battery box, you won't be able to plug those mics directly into the R-09.

Mine are terminated in the HEB mini-XLR configuration, but instead of re-terminating the connection, I made an adapter that bypasses the mini-XLR connection.

[firmdragon]

you could just get the DPA 4061 version.  then get someone to do the mini-plug hack.  then get a 9v batterybox.

[ilduclo]

IMO, avoid the CS mics, go with dpa's from dpa