Best microphone for micing a small amp?

[muddy]

Seeking recommendations regarding the best value for micing a small guitar amp?

I know Shure is probably at the top of the heap, but need model #s and less expensive alternatives.

Thanks

[thegeezer]

I like a SM 57 by Shure. I have used Electro voices 57 too which works well.

[Rickenjangle]

SM57 is still the standard.

I like the inexpensive Astatic handheld condenser mic for mic'ing the guitar amp, too...I got mine for about $35.

[Cygnus X1]

How are the Radio Shack mics?
Any good for amps?

Back in the old days they had a good replica of the SM57's and 58's.
My 58 clone lasted for many years and sounded as good as a Shure.
Until it got rotted inside.

[Moonrider]

Seeking recommendations regarding the best value for micing a small guitar amp?

I know Shure is probably at the top of the heap, but need model #s and less expensive alternatives.

Thanks

My two favorites are the Shure SM-57, and the Sennheiser e609.

[boobtube21]

I've been using an SM 57. You should be able to get one cheap on CL or Ebay. Sometimes people will sell them in sets, and you could sell the others if you can't afford to keep 'em.

I don't know much about proximity or angle of the dangle though, and so far have not been too happy with the sound I get. Anyone got any tips to that effect?

[Don]

In your title you say "best" and in thread you say "less expensive".

I went with one of the better mics and chose the Sennheiser e906. The e609 would be less expensive and still really good.

[chuckocaster]

figure half way between the dome and the edge, angle it to match the curve as best you can and set it back at least 6 inches from the grill. pull it back further colone if needs be. there is a science to micing but it really comes down to what sounds good and how it sits in the mix.

as for the og question, 57 oe e609 are standards, and for a good reason. if you can't afford them now start saving. they are worth owning as you can use them on plenty of other stuff.

[boobtube21]

Ok thanks Chuck. I've been doing just like you said, halfway between dome and edge, angled to face the cone @ 90 degrees or so, but right up on the grill cloth. I'll try pulling back a little.

To add to my previous post, remember that any good equipment you buy used, as long as you pay market value for it, will always be able to sell for around that same price. But cheap stuff falls off in value, so when it's time to upgrade you don't have the advantage of being able to trade up as easily.

[chuckocaster]

you can always try moving it one way or the other also colin, depends on the sound you're going for.

live though, i stuff that mic right on the grill, i already have some ambience off the cab so i use the super direct tone to tighten up the mix, if that makes sense.

[boobtube21]

That does make sense. That's where I learned the way I do it, from seeing the way my amp was mic'd at venues. I knew there had to be a better way for studio.

I'm also familiar with "distance equals depth" but forgot to experiment with that last time around.

[Erock_Germany]

I have had the same Shure SM 57 since about.....1987. It sounds great, never stopped working, is reliced (naturally) and has that mojo that every roadie respects.

As stated, it is the standard and they are pretty affordable....

[muddy]

Thanks for the suggestions / advice.

I ended up purchasing a Audix i5 on the recommendation of a friend who recently started using them. I have a gig tomorrow and wll let you know if it's on par or better than the Shure 57.

Same price btw ($100+tax)

[thegeezer]

I have used Audix they are good mikes.

[chuckocaster]

audix makes a fine mic, i'm just used to using shure. i think you'll like what you hear.

[Kap'n]

as for the og question, 57 oe e609 are standards, and for a good reason.

I like the e906 when I bother miking. I thought the e609 was more brittle than the SM57.

[Mesotech]

I have both a Shure SM57 and a Sennheiser e906. I don't use the Shure anymore, but carry it as a backup. The Sennheiser e906 works well for me, and it is a tough little mic as well. If I were recording, I would use both.

[Don]

It kills me to have this beautiful little mic (the e906) because I seldom use it! It's there when I need it though.

I'll be playing at a bbq later this month where I will use it with my 5E3 clone. My Mesa/Boogie doesn't need it.

When I record, which is also seldom, I use my PODxt plugged straight in.

[chuckocaster]

I like the e906 when I bother miking. I thought the e609 was more brittle than the SM57.

i've read a lot about the 906, i've never used one cause the 609 was always provided when i did sound. you're at the mercy of what the sound company provides. the 609 is a little bright, but that can be fixed with placement and a little EQ if needed.

[muddy]

Well, I'm satisfied with my purchase. The Audix i5 is definately on par with the Shure 57.

I was only micing a Fender Champion 600 so I'll withhold endorsing it as better than, but it really captured a good tone and "seemed" to pickup more high frequency than the Shure 57?

I'll revisit and update after a little more use.

Thanks for the input.