AUDIX SCX25A MICROPHONE Phenomenal piano sound  Capturing piano is challenging especially during live performances. The Audix SCX25A-PS large diaphragm studio condenser mic kit we reviewed comes with a pair of SCX25As and two piano mounts that separate into mic clips. We found the SCX25As to be refreshingly flat in their frequency response without sounding dull, capturing the fullness of the instrument but not overaccentuating any particular range.... 

AKG D12 VR REFERENCE KICK-DRUM MICROPHONE Bass drum mic goes to the next level The AKG D12 VR celebrates the company’s 65th anniversary with a nod to the dynamic mic that put them on the map in the ’50s and ’60s—the original D12—and the iconic D112 kick-drum mic heard on countless recordings and innumerable live venues. Without phantom power, the D12 VR delivers the pure character produced by any sound source. With phantom power engaged,... 

AUDIO-TECHNICA AT2005USB CARDIOID DYNAMIC USB/XLR MICROPHONE All-purpose quality and versatility The AT2005USB offers a wide variety of solutions for musicians and audio techs alike. XLR and USB outputs are ideal for both field and studio applications, complemented by a built-in headphone jack with volume control. The AT2005USB performed especially well through our PA, serving up crystal clear tones. Vocals and voiceovers were dynamic, and the cardioid... 

LIVE MICS Selecting the right microphone for your stage show is crucial to a sound performance “The microphone is the core of everything,” says veteran front-of-house engineer Andy Meyer. “If you don’t have your source properly miked, what good is a $2 million PA or a state-of-the-art mixing console? If the mics are terrible, a great performance doesn’t mean a thing.” It’s a challenge nearly all musicians face, from coffeehouse singer-songwriters...