Neumann K184 Small Condenser Microphone By jabbr on Aug 29, 2007 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

I am recording classical guitar duets, trios and quartets along with some solo guitar stuff. I have used a number of microphones over the years: audio technica, sure etc (all around the $500 CAD range). I recently started to use a AKG 414 and was so impressed with what a higher level microphone had to offer, I began to budget for another one for my home studio. I got the AKG 414 as it was noted as flexible and one of the best all around microphones and I am very pleased to have it as part of my home studio. However, the Neumann 184 is a small condenser microphone and the 184 is directional. After some research, I made the 184 purchase especially for recording accoustic guitar. To my ear, this microphone is even better sounding for the classical guitar than the AKG 414 and my only regret is I couldn't afford a 'matched pair'. You can get a nice balance by using both the 414 and the 184 but my recommendation would be a matched pair of Neumann 184s for any accoustic guitar recordings. I am using these mics through a Focusrite digital/audio converter which is feeding Logic Pro. I am monitoring through Yorkville monitoring speakers and have my computer driving Bose Comp III speakers. The difference can be heard through my $40 ghetto blaster as well.