I realize that asking for microphone advice is even worse than asking for headphone purchase advice since 20 responses will likely yield 20 recommendations!
for MANY years my GOTO vocal mic has been a Shure KSM27, but it was stolen recently and actually they don't make them any more, the "new and improved" model is the SM27 and retails for ~$300. Personally, I'm not convinced it's as good or better than the KSM27, but I'll take advice on that as well.
I think I'd like to upgrade anyway but my max budget has to be $600 to $700.
Primarily this will record my vocals which, if you have not heard my singing, I'm a baritone with a very strong set of lungs!
However, as a "goto" vocal mic, I also record others including high soprano and low bass voices. It might also need to record some acoustic guitar or mando, etc. so I want a very versatile mic.
I've been looking at the AT-4047SV, Shure KSM32, AKG C314, and the Neuman TLM-102.
AT 4047SV is a transformer coupled dual diaphram mic modeled after the Nueman U47, one pattern, pad & roll off included
AKG C314 is a transformerLESS dual diaphram ELECTRET Condenser which is the little sister of the AKG 414, 4 different patterns for versatility, pad and roll off also included.
KSM32 is transformerless single SMALL diaphram (0.75") Electret Condenser which differs from the 27 and 44 - they are large diaphram 1" True Condenser - the 32 is described as "neutral" where 27 and 44 are "warm" - has pad and roll off - 1 pattern
TLM 102 well, first of all, it's a Nueman! it's a small package designed specifically for vocals (it has a bump at 6k). Large single diaphram true condenser, only 1 pattern, no roll off, no pad
they're all about the same street value (the KSM32 is actually a little cheaper than the others). the Nueman does not come with a shock mount (some of the others do at that price) and the shock mount is $130! so I'd either be without a shock mount or I'd have to up my budget.
so let's discuss these! I might end up not spending this much money on a mic, but at this time I have the opportunity so I might. thanks for your input!