CAD M179 Dual Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Condenser Microphone

Feature:
I'm impressed here.

Quality:
Way impressive.

Value:
Outa-sight impressive value here.

Desirability:
Give me another two or three of these.

Sound:
I'm impressed alright.

Support:
Totally impressive.

Overall:
OK. So enough of the short descriptives. What do you want from a mic? Sensitivity? Accuracy? Quality? Sound particulars? That's the question. This mic has all of the above when compared to even way more expensive ones. All one can do is hear others' oppinions and go blindly forth. Or maybe actually demo mics. But most of us don't have such an opportunity. Lots of "big deal/big time studio operators" just naturally want to spend thousands for a microphone. Not necessary these days. Even if you got huge bucks, you can still buy a high-quality mic for a couple hundred, if you don't mind the "social embaressment" of having something less expensive. This mic suits my needs perfectly. I am proud to display it (along with my other spendy mics) in my small studio environment. It has very, very good averall sound and quality. It's kind of hard to describe( with any accuracy) how a mic sounds. Like speakers. Or wine. Let's not kid around here, it's a trial and re-trial situation. All said, this is a truly well worth the money microphone. I intend to buy three more. I am completely satisfied, and my expectations have been realized with this microphone.

Feature:
I was skeptical that the variable pickup pattern would be of much use, but it really works well! In the cardiroid setting, the M179 barely picks up anything behind it (even if i clap my hands or snap my fingers). On the other hand, if it is turned to omni or figure-8 my sound gets a good presence and reverb from the room.

Quality:
This thing is built very well. My only disappointment is with the shockmount (mine came with one included). It helps with light bumps but I still get some noise if someone is walking on the studio floor or if anything even touches the stand. I was expecting a little better isolation. Otherwise, this seems like a solid mic. The carry case is a nice plus too.

Value:
I'm really glad I got this mic. I was thinking about getting a $100 cheapo model the guy at the local Guitar Center was trying to push on me, since I'm new to 'home studio' recording, but I'm very glad I spent a little extra money, because what I've been getting is very near professional quality from this mic, and at an amazing price!

Desirability:
Whats not to like about this side-address condenser. It looks beautiful with a shockmount and pop filter, just begging to be sang to. I think this mic has classic styling, yet brings forward great versitility and new techologies that can't be beat at this price.

Sound:
Very flat, very neutral sound. I've used this mic on an acoustic guitar and vocals so far, and both applications have surpassed my expectations. I appled the highpass filter for the guitar, and I get a great sound with just enough low end. Nice trebles, but more importantly a good balance between highs and lows. Great op-amps, I can turn my level all the way up until I can hear a whisper... and still no hiss!

Ease of Use:
Easy to mount, easy to adjust the pickup, or the pad. Easy to set levels; picks up everything from the slightest whispers to the hardest rock. Easy to get a good position.

Support:
I have not contacted CAD with any concerns at this time.

Overall:
Obviously there are 'professional' mics that sound better. That are flatter. That are better at their specific application. But for an all-around, versitiale, and affordable mic, the CAD M179 is amazing. Its features are great because they really work well, there is no hiss or noise, it works for very quiet, delicate sounds as well as for high volume applications. This mic is a great way for anyone with a little ambition and $200 to get a professional sounding recording.