AndrewChapmanCreative Digs Into Mic Madness

Andrew kicks things off on the overrated train with the Neumann KM-184s. These mics, which come with a price tag heavier than a stack of mixtapes, are called out for not quite meeting the expectations set by that shiny Neumann badge. While acknowledging that they do sound good, Andrew argues that price drives them out of the practical zone. He reminisces on occasions where cheaper options outperformed these pricey pieces, hinting at the classics like Rode NT5 that sometimes steal the show. It’s a solid reminder that sometimes more bucks don’t mean more bang in the world of sound. The real shocker here? The sky-high shipping costs attached to these mics – a note of frustration that riffs like a broken subwoofer.

Enter the Crown PZM, a throwback from 1988 that’s got Andrew spilling secrets rarer than a Chicago sunshine in winter. This mic may have been crafted for stuffy conference rooms, but Andrew flips the script, dubbing it a room mic savant. He shares a classic studio hack of taping these mics to walls or ceilings for an unexpected sonic bloom, reminiscing about a session from recording school that changed the game. Some might squint at its heritage, but Andrew assures it’s a treasure, especially if room dynamics are your groove. The thrill of hunting these gems on the likes of reverb is akin to digging through vinyl crates at a flea market. A potential hefty price-tag is the only hesitation, but the mic’s unique capabilities make it worth the hustle.

Rolling forward, Andrew dives into the mix with the Blue Mouse microphone. This little guy doesn’t just look nifty, it’s a powerhouse for both vocals and spoken word. In a charming nod to its compactness, he recalls how its tiny stature keeps it out of the way while delivering big on sound. Whether it’s a spinet piano or spoken word, the mouse proves it’s not just for desktop clutter. Andrew praises its versatility, favoring it as an underdog contender that’s mighty despite its size. With a touch of irony, he notes its pop culture claim to fame on the Good Mythical Morning set, revealing its silent contributions behind the scenes. Andrew hands it the underrated badge, suggesting it’s worth grabbing a pair if you’re in the market for something unexpectedly powerful.

Andrew takes a moment to shout out newer players like Vanguard and Austrian Audio, showcasing how these brands bring fresh energy to microphone design. With Vanguard’s V13 in focus, he reflects on his brief ownership filled with regret over selling it – a testament to its quality. Andrew highlights the mic’s unique voice that made it a standout in his collection. Shifting gears, Austrian Audio’s OC818 series enters the chat, distinguished by innovative features like capsule separation and Bluetooth remote control. The OC818 offers a twisting blend of tech-forward design with the kind of audio quality that leaves you craving more. For those on a tighter budget, Andrew notes the OC18 as a stunning alternative, promising similar sonic satisfaction. In these mics, he sees a blend of innovation and affordability, hitting the perfect price-to-fun ratio.