Was just wondering if anyone could help point me towards a microphone that could best suit my voice. You can hear, and download for free, my material at http://chrisarena.bandcamp.com(not an add, promise)

This seems like the wrong forum for an artist but I'm really kinda desperate for help at this point...

I just released the album 3 weeks ago and have been offered a small, 'grass-roots' tour of chicago, st. louis, nashville and many other college towns. I'm looking for a mic that could help replicate the quality of the album. I have kind of a rusty voice and have heard that the shure sm58,Audix OM series or Neumann KMS 105 could do the job... cost really isn't a concern for me-just getting the best possible microphone.

If anyone could help please email carena@memphis.edu

thanks!
chris arena

There's quite a bit of top end push on your voice, which if you want to replicate live really means (in my humble view) a condenser mic. A Shure 86/87 might suit or maybe a Sennheiser 865? There are more expensive ones, of course - but these three would seem to me to suit your voice. Do be careful you buy real ones, though. On-line sales of these three from non-main dealers can accidentally purchase you a Chinese copy, which may not sound quite the same.

I have to agree with Paulears that a nice condensor might suit your voice well....giving the clarity you need in the up ranges but giving a nice warmth as well.

Of the mics you mentioned, the KMS105 is a favourite of mine and I think it would suit you well...not cheap though.

Of the 3 mics on Paulear's list, the Sennheiser 865 would be my personal choice.

Finally, another microphone I've been using a lot for the past year with very good results on voices similar to yours is the Rode S1.

The main advice though would be to find a good professional audio supplier who will let you audition the various mics before you buy!

Bob

Another vote for a good quality condenser, and another vote for trying out all the available options before you buy, as the chioce of a vocal mic can be a very personal thing. For the sort of work you're doing you need to like the sound, not the name on the box......

Another possible contender nobody has mentioned yet could be the ElectroVoice RE410 or 510 but you really should go to a proper equipment shop and listen to the options rather than buying "blind" online.

Thanks for all the help. I'm going to do some research on everything you all have so kindly suggested. Was wondering, however, if you knew of any shops where these microphones would be available? So that I could possibly get some professional help while considering the best possible choice.

Also I have a set of Macki speakers that I've used for the last several years while playing live. Now that I've released the record I'm looking to really improve the overall quality of my shows. Honestly I need advice for the entire set up (speakers, mixers, eq's, etc..) Again I'm willing to spend a good amount in order to attempt to replicate the album... I have a small tour lined up in October in Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville, Little rock and Knoxville for some college campuses. Again thanks for all the help.

-Chris Arena

WOW! The KMS 105 appears absolutely supreme!

I don't know the college scene in the US, but UK colleges often have their own sound systems with fairly decent gear (although the standard of student operators can vary widely). It might be worth checking with the venues to see if you really need your own sound system.

If you decide to buy your own then it would be helpful if you could give us more information - like what you want to put through the sound system and what size venues you will be playing in.

Cheers

James.

Most of the places I'll be playing do have professional sound provided although I want to have a set up for playing at bars in New York that don't... Any advice? cost really isn't a concern at this point. Just getting the best possible system for a singer/songwriter and a backup band. Keep in mind that replicating the album is my main goal.

The band is playing mainly acoustic instruments with a drummer playing with brushes, mostly. We also have a cello player.

Thanks!
-C

I know it'll seem like we're being fussy, but we really need a bit more information to make any kind of informed recommendations. Things like:

-exactly how many musicians in your backing band and a full list of instruments.

-the size (or size range) of the venues you'll be playing.

-as it's a small tour are there any constraints on size/weight?

-are you touring with a sound operator, using local people or trying to do it all from the stage?

-monitor requirements?

and, finally...

-We really do need some kind of idea of an acceptable budget. Pro sound prices can vary hugely. At the top end I could recommend systems where each speaker cabinet costs several thousand dollars. At the other end, there are "okay" systems where the entire set up would cost less than one of the aforementioned top end stuff...and, obviously there is huge choice in the middle.

I'm sure everyone here will be happy to advise--but we're "shooting in the dark" until we know more.

Bob