Ill cast my vote for 2 mics in the Audio Technica line. The AT4040 for recording instruments. I love this mic because it hears like I do. When the guitar amp I'm recording sounds good, when I put an AT4040 in front of it, I get what I heard in the room. For vocals, I prefer the AT 4033. It does something in the mids that just makes the vocals jump from the speakers. I love both those mics
That said, the standard mic for rap is the Sony C800. It's bloody crazy expensive with its cooler and all. Warm Audio makes a version of that mic that is much mire reasonably priced that I suspect you would like a great deal.
Having said that, these are all mic pipe dreams. The absolute best thing you can do is to beg barrow or rent any mic you are thinking of before you buy it. Working with the mic will tell you what you need to know and eliminate the guess work.
For mics I use a Sennheiser e835 (vocals) or Shure sm57 (vox and instrumental)
I have a e935 but I don't think it records as well as the 835 but it kicks ass for live use... I go a into a focusrite Scarlett.
I had a AT4040 but I dropped i also have a Lewitt 440 but that thing is a temperamental bitch and needs to be in a well isolated and treated room.
Avoid USB mics. You may as well continue using your iphone
I love my AT4040. cant speak for the other mics but I use mine for rap vocals with an SSL2. It sounds very open and detailed, and it takes post processing reskly well.
it sounds great just plug and play, but if you're focusrite has the built-in air mode it'll definitely increase how good it can sound. the air mode opens up the top end even more for an airy sound. I tested a 2i2 gen 4 last month with the 4040 and it sounded great
I think using a Pultec-ish EQ to brighten the highs will get you in the ballpark you're wanting to be in, but also not make your vocal sound harsh. You'll probably have to end up using a DeEsser of sorts with that microphone once you boost the high EQ, but that's a lot of mics under 1000 anyways.
When you're ready to buy one, try an Audio Technica 4040. They're great for male vocals and not brittle sounding. Plus you can find a used one around $150.
Archieaa1
