Audio-Technica AT 4053B

I'm using this for video audio recording indoors in a semi-dampened room, on a Roycotte table shockmount going into a camera-mounted Sony K2M. The shotgun that came with the K2M was sounding too wet.

Great value mic - nice sound, low noise. I listened to the Sennheiser MKH 8050, Schoeps CMC641 and this on youtube ( honestly preferred the sound of this. Sure, I'd much prefer the beautiful wooden case of the Schoeps, to the cheap vinyl case this comes in - but if it doesn't sound better to my ear, I can't really justify the extra. I'd love to try them all with my own voice, but didn't have time & couldn't find this mic for sale in the UK anyway.

To be honest, it sounds a lot better closer to the talent, than I have it. I don't know if the Schoeps or Sennheiser would solve that problem, but it's definitely good enough for now.

Nice that you can change the capsules too if you need a different pickup pattern, just a shame that cardioid and omni are the only options - I'd really like a super cardioid...

Much as I would love to own a large diaphragm valve microphone, frankly the AT-4053B is a MUCH more sensible option for voice in my small (8m x 8m) studio where I need to allow for my less than perfect mic positioning options and less than perfect sound proofing. The AT4053B works perfectly positioned just overhead and pointed at my throat and combined with the Zoom H8N provides a very high quality and likeable end result without popping or sibilance. I've not yet used it for anything but voice but I see no reason why it would not perform well for recording a guitar or keyboard amp should the need arise. Feels robust and well made. If buying with or for a mic stand make sure you purchase the right adapter!