The true appeal of this mic is, it simply sounds great.  It has the benefit of similar features to the KSM27 (but with a one way roll off) but with a sparkle and sheen virtually unmatched by mics in this price range.  Definitely not as neutral as the Rode or Shure, this mic has character, but without being over the top.  As one who owns several expensive "first call" mics, this one sometimes wins the shootout on certain voices.  It excels on acoustic instruments.  Not just 6 string guitar, but classical, 12 string, mandolin, and fiddle.  It probably does better on female vocals than male, but again (what’s the magic word?) it is mixable.  While it's sister mic, the Hamburg edition, fares better (in fact, great) on heavy guitar cabs,  they may not be the Vienna’s strong suit, but for the money saved, grab a Shure sm57 for you cabs, and  let the Vienna do the rest!

 

Number 2:  Audio Technica 4033/CL ($399.00)

 

While I realize this may be a controversial number two pick, especially given the previous three picks, I have to fight for this one.  The 4033 has the distinction of being arguably the only "classic" on this list, and a secret weapon on many sessions, especially in Nashville, and with good reason.   This mic is one of the few that has a true "character", but is not colored in such a way that it is not versatile. It is not quite as versatile on multiple voices (male/female etc) as some of the other mics on the list, but it holds its own.   It has a fat warm, clear, detailed sound.  In my opinion, it is the only one on this list that has the true top flight "3 dimensional" sound sought in many more expensive mics.  I remember having a conversation with Klaus Heyne, one of the most respected mic guru's in the industry.  While we talked about the great "big budget" mics, when speaking of some of the more budget oriented ones, he would generally cringe.....except for the AT4033.  While I consider Klaus an "audiophiliac" by most accounts (see article) that still says something.    For a while, I used this mic primarily for vocals, but because of the "weight" it has, I never considered it a contender for acoustic guitar, as I expected it might be too boomy.  When I finally tried it I was pleasantly surprised at the detail and clarity it had, and muddiness never seemed to be a problem.  Now, ready for me to really stir the pot?  I believe this mic sounds better that most of its bigger brothers in the Audio Technica 40 series.  OK. I said it, lets continue. 

This mic does have the roll off and attenuator, which are especially helpful because the fullness of this mic does give it some serious proximity effect.  One final note, while virtually all the mics on this list can eventually get overshadowed as you build you mic collection with better mics, the AT4033 is probably the only one that every studio should own, large or small, as it's sonic character is unique among many mics, and can find a place in any mic locker.             

5 great mics for 399.00 and under

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