We need microphones to use for our brass during live shows. So far, we have one trombonist, and should be adding a trumpet or two and possibly another trombonist. Though this group plays jazz sometimes, we plan to play some rock and funk, so the horns need to be able to compete with distorted guitar, drums, and bass, without killing their chops.

I was thinking of using some SM-57s, but after searching the archives here I notice some people say that brass horns may put out too much sound for that to sound good. Will this be a problem? Unfortunately, we don't have too much money right now- is there much else besides the SM57 for under say, $175 US?

Also, if at some point we could get clip-on and/or wireless mics, what would be a good choice for that?

Reply posted by Steve on February 26, 2002
Shure just came out with a new clip on mic for horns. It is called a Beta98H/C. It is a cardiod version of the Beta98 drum mic. It is shock mounted and sounds great! It will also be available in their wireless systems as well. Good luck.

Steve

Reply posted by Frank Aponte on February 26, 2002
Hi Neil,

The SM-57 will work just fine with most brass. I prefer the MD-421 if its available.
I plan to try to work out a sponsorship deal with Shure for one of my artists, if it happens I'd like to have all Beta 52s on the Brass (2 sax, 1 Trombone, 2 trumpets).

Good Luck,

Frank Aponte
VACAudio Services
San Juan, PR

Reply posted by mark on February 26, 2002
Have you looked at the frequency response on the Beta52? I'm sure it will work well if you want your trumpets to sound like a Limp Biskit kick drum. I would prefer something much smoother, ie Beta57, Beyer M88, M69, TGX50, EV RE20, PL20, Sennheiser MD421, 441, etc.

Mark "Not a big fan of mics that are designed to do the EQing for you" Mattocks

Reply posted by Frank Aponte on February 26, 2002
Have you ever tried it?

Reply posted by Jason Misterka on February 26, 2002
Try the Audix D4 - they sound good on most horns and are in your price range if you good to the right places

Reply posted Greg Cameron on February 26, 2002
The Audix D-3 is an excellent mic for brass, and is made to take those hi SPL mids, that horns create. They sound very very clean on sax. Haven't tried a D-4, but I bet it would be good on the barratone horns and tubas ;-) They are also very compact and light weight. If you decide to clip them to the bells of the brass, it won't add as much mass as some of the older larger mics.

Greg