I am considering investing in a good microphone for recording audition tapes. Does anyone have any recommendations for what kind to buy? Thanks!

I actually just bought an all-in-one system, the Zoom H2, which has a stereo pair on top of the case, and uses SD cards to record to, so no moving parts. The sound quality so far has been excellent, and it has many bells and whistles. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who needs to make audition tapes, lesson tapes, or field recordings of concerts and recitals and doesn't have over $200 to spend.

Here's the website:

zoom.co.jp

Zoom is good, I like it also. For a little more, Zoom H4 is quite handy and makes excellent recordings. You can record in Mp3 or WAV format, and do like a billion other little things that are supposed to be good for recordings.

Sony also has an inexpensive mic out there for standard recording devices. I had one in the past, and it was just fine for everything at the time. I think it runs around $80-$90. I don't remember the model #, but it might be "ECM...." something or other. If you Google Sony Microphone, I'm sure you'll come across it.

B.L.U.E. Kiwi multi-pattern condenser mic
It's about $2K.

If you're going to use a stereo pair set-up, go with a pair of Neumann 184 mics. The pair will also run about $2K.

I love my Audio-Technica AT 822 Stereo Mic. It runs a little over $300. I've used it with my minidisc recorder, as well as the Edirol digital recorder, and get great recordings that I've been able to use for auditions and competitions with much success. It's a good compromise to the more expensive Neumann mic's, which I can't justify the expense of, based on my own needs.

quote:

Originally posted by doublebass:
B.L.U.E. Kiwi multi-pattern condenser mic
It's about $2K.

If you're going to use a stereo pair set-up, go with a pair of Neumann 184 mics. The pair will also run about $2K.

I like the cut of your jib.

iloveflute, what is your budget? Also, are you going to be using a computer to record?

Cygnus - I might spend up to $500 on a mic at this point. I have a minidisc recorder right now which I'll probably stick with for a while.

I'd second the recommendation of the Audio-Technica AT 822 - I know a lot of pro musicians who use this one all the time, and I've heard it in action (?) before, and it's an excellent mic. Much better than the $100 Sony that most everyone uses.

quote:

Originally posted by iloveflute:
Cygnus - I might spend up to $500 on a mic at this point. I have a minidisc recorder right now which I'll probably stick with for a while.

If you want to spend all that, I would suggest the AT 4051 for flute. Excellent mic.
AT4051

If you want something more affordable, the Shure SM81 SM81 Keep in mind that these are specific, SDC mono mics. Stereo isnt needed unless you plan on moving around the room while you play.