Hey StudioNerds!
This week on the podcast, the guys got into a heated debate that every audio engineer and producer has eventually: old school microphones vs. the new wave of gear.
Are the classics classic for a reason? Or is modern technology finally catching up and offering us better, more durable, and more affordable options that can stand toe-to-toe with the legends?
Let's break down the biggest takeaways from this old vs. new mic showdown.
1. The Durability Dilemma: Are New "Prestigious" Mics Built to Last?
A major point of contention was the durability of modern, high-end microphones. One of the StudioNerds raised a skeptical eyebrow at a new, expensive, and "prestigious" microphone, questioning if it would have a durability problem.
This isn't just about being clumsy in the studio. It's about whether a multi-thousand-dollar piece of gear can handle the rigors of daily recording sessions without needing constant repairs.
The comparison was made to the legendary Shure SM58, a microphone famous for being nearly indestructible. You've probably heard the myths—that you can drop it, use it as a hammer, or even run it over with a car, and it will still sound the same. That level of reliability is a massive selling point, especially for live sound or busy studios.
The concern is that some modern, expensive microphones, particularly those modeling classic designs like the U87, might not be built with the same ruggedness. It’s a valid question for any StudioNerd about to drop serious cash: Is this investment going to last?
2. The Shock Mount Struggle is Real
Speaking of expensive microphones, the guys didn't hold back when discussing the shock mounts that come with some of the most legendary mics in the world.
The hot take? The Neumann Shockmount is due for an upgrade.
This is a common frustration for many engineers. You spend thousands on a Neumann U87 or TLM 49, and the included shock mount feels flimsy, comes apart easily, and is a pain to put back together. One of the guys described the anxiety of watching a spring pop off, fearing the entire thing was "cooked."
While they acknowledged that the shock mounts do work for a while, the build quality seems to be a weak point for such a premium brand.
This led to a shout-out for some better alternatives. One of the StudioNerds expressed his love for a simple, plastic shock mount from AKG that uses a twist-lock mechanism. Another gave props to Austrian Audio for their well-designed shock mounts.
The lesson? Don't assume that a high-end microphone comes with high-end accessories. You might need to budget for a third-party shock mount that won't give you a heart attack every time you set up a vocal session.
3. The Rise of the Modern Stage Mic
While the studio classics will always have their place, the guys also showed love for some modern workhorses, particularly for live vocals.
One of the StudioNerds declared the Sennheiser e 835 as his personal favorite stage microphone. He discovered it during a soundcheck on tour, loved the sound so much that he went out and bought one immediately, and has used it ever since.
Why does he love it? It has a nice "bite" on the top end that cuts through a mix, making it perfect for his vocal style. It’s a great reminder that you don't always need the most expensive or vintage gear to get a great sound. Sometimes, a modern, affordable dynamic microphone is the perfect tool for the job.
Another modern mic getting a lot of attention is the Shure SM7B. While not exactly "new," its popularity has exploded in recent years, becoming the go-to mic for podcasters, streamers, and vocalists alike. The guys noted that its dominance is so strong that other companies, like Lauten Audio, are starting to release competitors that are clearly aiming for that same market and aesthetic.
Gear List
Here's a quick recap of the gear mentioned in this segment:
The Classics (and their comparisons):
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Shure SM58: Praised for its legendary durability.
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Shure SM57: Noted as being essentially the same microphone as the SM58, just with a different grille designed for instrument use.
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Neumann U87 & TLM 49: Mentioned for their prestige but criticized for their poorly designed shock mounts.
The Modern Contenders:
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Sennheiser e 835: A StudioNerd favorite live vocal mic, praised for its bright, cutting sound.
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Shure SM7B: The dominant player in the podcast/broadcast space, inspiring a new wave of competitors.
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AKG & Austrian Audio Shock Mounts: Praised as superior alternatives to Neumann's stock shock mounts.
Whether you're team "vintage vibes" or team "modern marvels," the key is to find the tools that work for your workflow and your sound. Don't be afraid to question the durability of expensive new gear, and don't underestimate the power of a reliable, affordable workhorse.
Until next time, keep creating!