Post by bowie on Dec 16, 2016 17:15:22 GMT -6
Get the AMI bodies. I've purchased them twice and they are a great option for those who want a competently made, no delays, no surprises, no screwing around kit for their project.
The basket is nicely shaped and beautiful (none of the bloated look I've seen in some poorly made ones). The plating has held up over the last couple years. I really like the P2P acrylic platforms. Just be very careful with the heat or they will spiderweb. I followed Oliver's advice on recreating the original wiring loom layout and it turned out fab, with very low noise. For tubes, I've tried several preferred the Phillips/Sylvania 5840 (some of which are labeled for Raytheon). The first kit I ordered came with Panasonic caps, which I normally like, but upgrading them opened up the top end.
Sound-wise, I'm still experimenting with parts but it's definitely got an M49 vibe. Pulls a lot of information out of the room and brings it forward in a big, dreamy way without being muddy. Mids are intimate. Highs roll off a little but you mostly notice it when A/Bing against other mics. When solo'd, the presentation sounds reasonably balanced and smooth. Don't expect a hyped top end like most modern mics have. Much of the tone will depend on the parts you use but Oliver's 5840-based schematic is solid and recommended. Don't go the AC701 route with a DIY M49.
If you're looking for a mount, I would avoid the Peluso yoke mount. I've been unhappy with it and received no reply from the company about my concerns.
The basket is nicely shaped and beautiful (none of the bloated look I've seen in some poorly made ones). The plating has held up over the last couple years. I really like the P2P acrylic platforms. Just be very careful with the heat or they will spiderweb. I followed Oliver's advice on recreating the original wiring loom layout and it turned out fab, with very low noise. For tubes, I've tried several preferred the Phillips/Sylvania 5840 (some of which are labeled for Raytheon). The first kit I ordered came with Panasonic caps, which I normally like, but upgrading them opened up the top end.
Sound-wise, I'm still experimenting with parts but it's definitely got an M49 vibe. Pulls a lot of information out of the room and brings it forward in a big, dreamy way without being muddy. Mids are intimate. Highs roll off a little but you mostly notice it when A/Bing against other mics. When solo'd, the presentation sounds reasonably balanced and smooth. Don't expect a hyped top end like most modern mics have. Much of the tone will depend on the parts you use but Oliver's 5840-based schematic is solid and recommended. Don't go the AC701 route with a DIY M49.
If you're looking for a mount, I would avoid the Peluso yoke mount. I've been unhappy with it and received no reply from the company about my concerns.
