This CAD M179 is definitely for keeps. Like other reviewers here have said, it has a permenant place in my recording studio (wherever that may be). I compared this mic to lots of others, mostly in or above its price range. It reminds me of the AKG C3000b and the Audio-Technica AT3035 in its overall sound quality. I think it actually sounds better than the AT 4050 (which costs a lot more, and the CAD has better specs to boot, with the exception of sensitivity and power requirements. The CAD wants around 8 mA, while the others only need 3 to 5). The AKG, the AT 4050 and AT3035 are a bit more sensitive, but the CAD goes far lower in frequency response. The AKG, the 4050, and the 3035, do not have dual diaphrams. All of these, mics however, are very good to excelent overall.

Sound
I find this mic to have a fairly neutral characteristic. Maybe a tad, but just a tad, on the rich side. Vocals sound full, not brassy or tinny. Presence is very good. Does drums and acoustic guitars well. The low-end roll-off works decent for eliminating pops when getting up-close. It seems to be pretty quiet, even without a special mount, which is available from the company if you need one. I give it a 9 because there are mics out there that do sound better, but not much.

Features
It included some accessories, like a hard case and a ring mount. No dust cover or spider mount. It has nice selectable patterns that work VERY well. The low end… read more rolloff and 20 db pad also work very well.

Quality
I give this mic a 10 for quality because, for its price, it just can't be beat. It is well put together, heavy, with a sturdy, stiff screen and tight XLR socket. The finish is tough and durable. I would definitely keep this one in the studio, though it appears it could handle "road" use though, if you were so inclined. But let me say this, when you got one of these in your mit, you want to take care of it.

Value
Worth the price. Being a dual diaphram design, its multi-pattern selectability, sound aspect, specifications and overall quality. It rates with mics in, or well above, its price range.

Manufacturer Support
Like the review I've seen here, what better support than not needing any?

The Wow Factor
I like this mic. It's a little different looking than most, but hey, look at the Blue "Baby Bottle." Now there's a strange looking mic.

Musical Background:
Studio Foo, guitar player

Musical Style:
I like a little bit of everything. But not too much! Man some of that stuff is bad! read less