Looking to test/borrow/hire- mics around $2k

[Alistair]

Hey all-

I've got a bit of cash hidden away for a new (old) mic, and I'm chasing down a LDC around the $2k mark. I think second hand is definitely the way to go, and this is my short list at the moment-

Brauner Valvet
Manley Ref Cardioid
Lawson L47
Older 87

I know what an 87 sounds like, but beyond some samples online, I haven't had a chance to check the other mics out. None of my mates or the regular hire places in Melbourne have them, so I thought I'd check if anyone on Trock has any of the mics?

Preferably someone in Melbourne would be great, and I'm happy to pay a reasonable hire fee, but would much prefer to do a gear swap with something I've got for the afternoon or overnight.
Also happy to consider other options people have around that price range- I'm looking for something versatile with a reasonably natural character, but a touch of softening wouldn't go astray. I'm not chasing a hyped, aggressive sounding mic. Most frequent uses will be vox, double bass, horns and occasional elec guitar.

[GlennS]

If you can't borrow or hire locally then you should be able to hire a Valvet from Mixmasters in SA.

[the Hamster]

Hi Alistair

I have an older U87 (Tuchel connector) which you could
hire/make a deal for a couple of days if you wish.

I'm in Melbourne, call me on 0412 859581 if you're interested

Brendan

[Alistair]

Thanks Brendan- I've used quite a few 87's so I think I know what I'm getting myself into there, but if I can organise to have a shootout it would be great to use your mic. I'll get in touch if I can organise that.

Glenn- Yeah, Mixmasters seem to be the only place in Aus with Brauner in stock. I had thought of them, but I can only afford a Brauner 2nd hand, and I don't want to lead them on/hire plus shipping could be pretty expensive.

[dave01.cooper]

Hi Alistair,

Sing Sing also have a wide-ish range of 'older' style mics that they hire out if you didn't already know... Prices seemed to have dropped since last year to:

http://www.singsinghire.com.au/index.jsp?type=mics

Cheers

[Alistair]

Yep- it wouldn't be the first time I've hired a 47 from there. Unfortunately, I really don't have the money to purchase a 47/67, so I'm looking for other options I could afford for day to day to use. I'll still be hiring them as needed for projects.
I think the prices are the same as last time I hired- around August 2011, from memory the website is GST exclusive so it's a little bit more by the time you've actually paid for it.

I'd also be interested in an older U89 if anyone has one?

[GlennS]

Having used both U87's & U89's quite a bit I strongly recommend the U87 over the U89 for studio use. The other mic I regularly use in the studio which may fit your bill is a current model Beesneez Jade. The U87 is perhaps more versatile but the Jade can definitely sound nicer. Good luck!

[Simon B]

I have a Brauner Valvet that your can borrow to have a good play with if you wish, over a week or 2, but you need to be able to get it by Wednesday morning, as I fly out on Wednesday, wont be back until Monday, an then fly out again on Wednesday again.....

my number is 0422 654 632 I am in the Cheltenham/Moorabbin area,

Cheers SImon