Feature:
No on-off switch, but how many features do you expect from a live mic? What was very nice was the 5 layer pop filter. Normally a condenser mic like this is very sensitive to plosives. Not the S1. You can get right up on the grille--no problem. Just gets balzier, like a 58, only not quite as much--i.e., the proximity effect is less pronounced.
Quality:
The S1 is quite heavy and solid, and the finish is fantastic. If you want a black mic, this is not for you. I would question the ruggedness of a condenser mic over the long term but I hear Rode has a no holes barred gaurantee because they believe they have built in some ruggeddness into this. It certainly looks and feels like the best of any high end mics.
Value:
While my guess is that the Neumann KMS 105 will beat the S1, they are in the same type [i.e., live condenser mic] , and the S1 is less than half the price. I don't think the value can be beat by anything else out there today.
Desirability:
If you like black, this is not for you. If you like a very classic simple look, it's a pro-looking mic, the nickel satin finish is as good as any. But the reason to buy this mic is the smooth rich sound, not how it looks. I will buy this mic the next time I do live vocals--no question.
Sound:
This is the best live mic I have used. I have used and own EVs [NDY-class], and of course the SM57, SM58, Beta57, and Beta58. I used the S1 along side a 58 and a Beta58--The S1 Blew these off the map. This is in a Live rock and roll situation, not necessarily stressing the mic like Whitney Huston would. I'm also don't have the ears for subtilties. Just Very Clean, Clear, huge gain before feedback [the 58s were on the edge of feedback. Smooth, amazing. This is one great live vocal mic. Did not compare it to the KSM 105, but don't think any other mic is going to touch this one.
Support:
This is a guess on my part-I think to get people to accept a condenser in a live situation, they have offered an aggressive guarantee. I don't know of anyone that has had to take advantage of it--but again, this is a guess.
Overall:
My guess is that the Neumann will beat this mic. I have little doubt. But any other live vocal mic besides the KMS105 should be very very nervous if put up against this mic. It is that good. The exception to this would be if you want a lot of proximity effect--the prox effect on this mic is much more measured and smooth.
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