Which of these 2 mics would you use for vocals, and why

[doc7string]

I write and record mostly guitar based instrumental music, and use an SM 57 for my guitar. Drums are no problem as I use Toontracks DFHS, and other instruments via other MIDI controlled devices/ software. Now, I need to put down some vocal tracks, and since I don't want to buy a mic for vocals that will rarely get used, I am thinking of using one of the mics that I already own. Of course there is the SM57, but I also own a pair of Audio Technica 240 xl's which were rented to own many moons ago along with a small PA used at band practice. I did do some vocal recording in the past with the AT's, and had fairly good results, but wonder if I would have better results with the shure if I just gave them a little EQ tweak time etc. My last choice would be to buy a vocal mic. If a different mic would give me huge gains in my vocal recordings, I might consider it, but I would rather put that money (even if less than $100) toward a great pre, or something else that would improve the bulk of my recordings (Non-vocal). Let me know what you think- any input is appreciated, and when answering, remember, I am a seasoned musician, but a relative newbie to recording (though, ignorance is bliss, so I am having a blast )

[BradLyons]

Well if you're using an SM57 on your electric guitar, what micpre are you using for it? How important is your guitar tone?

[sdemott]

The SM57 is a standby for mic'ing an amp.

Really - a pre is not going to make a huge difference until you spend some significant coin...which will end up being a very small return on investment, IMO. I vote for a 2nd mic that could add new texture to your recordings as a guitar mic and a vocal mic. A decent condenser (like the AT4035 or similar) or a decent ribbon (like a Royer, if you wanted to spend that kind of money). Other than that, I say save your cash.

It's really easy to go all "gear head" about things..but really, close your eyes and listen - if it sounds good does it matter if it's a SM57 or U87 through an 828 or an API or Neve or whatever. It's all about making a sound and groove that moves you. If it's working for you, don't go spending money because you're brain got involved.

brains have no business in music
(and I say that only partly tongue-in-cheek)

[BradLyons]

Steve,

My point is, he does NOT need a vocal mic that often at all...but he mikes his guitar cabinet. Would spending money on another vocal mic make more sense? Probably not..... but depending on what pre he has, spending money on a good pre might make more sense. For example, a UA Solo 610 does wonders with an SM57 on guitar cabinet, and if he just needs to do vocals here and there---it would work fine on vocals. It's not always about the mic or always about the pre, most times it's about the combination of both and depending on what it's being used on, all bets are off. Now if vocals were important to him---then yeah, looking at another mic would certainly make sense.

[HCMarkus]

Assuming you are recording an amplified electric guitar, I concur with sdmott the 57 is a fine choice. For vocals (and acoustic guitar, too) a clean condenser mic would make your recordings sound much cleaner and detailed than the 57. Maybe the AT's you own fit the bill... I am not familiar with this model mic. Or maybe you don't want or need a clean vocal sound. Choices abound!

[1nput0utput]

Do a shoot-out: Set up the SM57 and the AT 240XL right next to each other (the capsules should be as close to each other as possible) and record both. Then listen back and figure out which one you like better.

[Phil O]

Don't underestimate the sound of an sm57. Despite it's low price, that mic really shines through a good preamp. I was pleasantly surprised the first time I plugged a 57 into my Grace. You'll never regret having a decent preamp (which of course can be used with other mics). I think Brad is on the right track here. The right pre will do wonders for the sound of the 57 and be useful with other mics as well. The tough job will be finding the right pre that also fits your budget. BTW, what's your budget?

If you're not planning on spending some cash right now, 1nput0utput's got the ticket. Simply audition the two mics side by side.

Phil

[BradLyons]

Ahhhhh someone gets it, THANKS PHIL! Yes, my point is this...... if you're not recording vocals often at all, don't buy a mic for vocals. Instead, put whatever investment you need to make into a pre that will enhance the mic for your electric guitar tracks, that will also work on vocals and solve one issue while improving another that you probably aren't aware you might have.

[resolectric]

Several of Madonna's vocal tracks in «Bedtime Stories" were recorded with a SM57, in the control room.
Bob Marley did record vocals with SM57 quite often.
Bono has several of his vocals recorded with SM57, and so does U2's producer Daniel Lanois in his solo albums.

Did you try it with vocals? Please do.

And i susbcribe to what everyone is saying about a good pre. In fact, there are some very nice combinations of good Pres with SM57s.

[mandobilly64]

You might want to use a pop filter for recording vocals with a SM57 though.
I would also say, that for a small price, a Rode NT1a is not bad for vocals as well as a good acoustic guitar mic.

That's not to say that have a good preamp isn't a bonus for either one of those mics.

Peace,
Billy

[BradLyons]

You might want to use a pop filter for recording vocals with a SM57 though.
I would also say, that for a small price, a Rode NT1a is not bad for vocals as well as a good acoustic guitar mic.

That's not to say that have a good preamp isn't a bonus for either one of those mics.

Peace,
Billy

You know, people have something against Pop Music these days. Everywhere I read it's "Use a Pop Filter". How come you never hear "Use a Country Filter" or "Use an R&B Filter"?

[Phil O]

You know, people have something against Pop Music these days. Everywhere I read it's "Use a Pop Filter". How come you never hear "Use a Country Filter" or "Use an R&B Filter"?

Yeah, I have a similar problem. My complaint is with all those "Stop Ahead" signs people keep putting up.

[nick danger]

I have a real problem with the "End Construction" signs. I usually see them where the roads are really torn up and they could use a bit of construction.

[nick danger]

OK, a post somewhat on topic. I've been looking at various pres, single and double channel, but most likely a single channel.

My question-- should I get one that comes with its own A/D conversion, with hopefully better convertors than my 828mkII has, using either ADAT or SPDIF to run it through the 828? Or would my money be better spent on one that has a higher quality preamp section and run it through the 828 analog ins for A/D conversion? This is assuming that my budget is somewhere between $500-1000.

[BradLyons]

Understand if you buy a pre with an A/D converter, you're paying for both. Now if you need better converters, that is something to consider....but you have to consider both what you're coming from and what you're going through. In other words just because it's digital does not mean that it is better, per say. There has to be analog to digital conversion somewhere. Fortunately the converters on the 828mk2 are quite good for where it's at, but if you want better---that's up to you.

If we're talking a single channel pre, one I always have to throw out there is the Universal Audio Solo610. Great little box, good warm sound, nice tone, affordable, etc. The new Focusrite ISA One is also worth a serious consideration AND that does have a VERY good quality A/D option available. Here's a sleeper, if you're after clean sound, that is a VERY VERY good A/D converter with excellent, clean gain-pres. This is a 2-channel unit and one I recommend highly....it's called the MICO from Audient. I've sent a few of these out to good clients of mine on total recommendation, they have all called me back thanking me for it.... it's about $1,100 but worth every penny.