Thanks for all the immense replies# that's why I love this board! Although I absolutely love my 853's (and would argue a few of my tapes rival some of the best available for certain bands and even clubs I still sometimes feeling limited by them. I've had a couple situations that the split level made them cheese (not counting out microtrack2496 1/4" input limitations). In addition, could be location or mix, but, mix is really not what I heard in my ears.
All this said, I do master almost all shows (equal, levels, occasional slight compression, etc) and don't necessarily need 4061 w/ frequency boost...however, I find this is where 853's lack - med-hi,s. I also find them difficult with thick low bass (makes low and med-low mix very imbalanced and muddy). These are my two biggest complaints with the 853's.
I've also had a few situations where its been too quiet for mice 853's
I know there's not one solution for all these issues, but would like a mic that can cover many of them and be a potential overall improvement to 853 sound which I love.
Although the deneke ps2 I think sounds great with the 853s, it is bulky. A stealth action with no compromise to sound would be ideal.
I know the microtrack2496 is dated, but I think it produces very clear recordings. I'm sure there's some recorders now that sounds even better and are cheap (Sony m-10). All I'm looking for is great mic input sound (clean, clear and minimum 24/48 capability). Don't care about any other bells or whistles just solid and input components, 24 bit capable, and external storage options).
I know these are a lot of questions but any sport in any of these areas is much appreciated! I would like to go to sleep grab something in time for sasquatch
Thank you much!