Mark,
Far be it for me to discourage the purchase of Audio Magic (or other high-end) cables, but when the choice is between microphones that are going to suit your ear better and high-dollar cables, I would always recommend the Mics first.
By saving $130+ dollars with the purchase of a good cable like Belden, Mogami, or Canare, you will narrow the gap toward the purchase of the 480's. Perhaps, you could find a pre-owned pair.
You can always upgrade the cables later, but getting lesser mics than you really want will result in a bigger loss financially and in tapes that you won't be as happy with.
Feel free to email me directly (nutter@sonicsense.com) if I may be of assistance.
Marc Nutter
Sonic Sense, Inc.
I really like the sound of the 480/ck61's.......BUT, I don't have that kind of money to put down right now. I still need to purchase a powerpad 160 battery(400$) and some Audio Magic cables.
Would I be happy with the SE 300B's ? OR, should I just wait 'till the spring, and put down the money of the 480's ?
I like the sound of both. So really, this is pointless, but answer none the less
.........and Bri.......I really do miss the karma points