Had a dude ask me what microphone I use to record with today and he looked real puzzled when I told him I use several different mics. But "what about a guitar cab", he said. That brings me to this blog's point, the situation selects the microphone.
If I want punch, for instance, I will use a dynamic mic say an Audix I5 or a shure SM57. Perhaps even a Heil PR30 or a EV 635A (the Hammer). If I want the room I might use a ribbon mic like a Cascade Fathead of Vinjet . Deeper in the room I might use a short dual ribbon such as a Cascade Radiator or an Oktava MA 52-02. If I want a more "in your face" tone I might use a condenser such as a AKG 414B-LS , a Blue Blueberry or even a Audio-Technica 4033. I don't usually use small diaphram, I save those for acoustics, pianos and hi-hats. For a big round sound, nothing beats a tube mic. I often use our Peluso P12. I think God has all Peluso mics in his church.
Don't forget mic placement is crucial to a good tone. If you use multiple mics, it can make a great sound or kill a recording. Phasing is an engineers nightmare, but, if you follow a few simple rules, you can be a tone king.
One more thing, and a big one at that, a mic can only reproduce what it hears. If you start with great tone, you'll end with great tone. If you start with shit............
