Hi guys
Thank you for all your feedback, it is really helpful.
I have found that a UA-5 / iRiver combo is both an affordable and reasonable solution that can be used with most microphones. I think I will go for that.
Being based in Europe makes buying mics from US an expensive affair, considering the 20% tax, toll, shipping cost and handlingfee. I have listened to a lot of different recordings and also searched the EU market for prices and availability. I have listed a selection of mics and their prices. Since many of you have experience with a broad range of different mics, I would like to hear oppinions on the price / performance of these (or similar) mics.
Studio Project C4 MkI: $335 new
Oktova MK012: $410 new
Avantone CK1: $435 new
Studio Project C4 MkII: $500 new
Audix ADX 51: 542$ new
AKG C 391 B: $700 new
AT 4041: $760 new
Beyerdynamic MC-930: $1085 new
Neuman KM184: $1180 used
I kind of like some of the recordings I found with the Avantone CK1's. I also found some great recordings with the AT4041's. The Beyerdynamic / Neuman is out of my budget, but I included them so you have an idea of the price range.
Best regards
Thomas