AKG D130 vs EV 635a

[Boyd]

Still new to the forum, long time Tape Op subscriber, figured I'd share some info. I see a lot on this forum and others about the 635a. I love this mic - and most EV dynamics in general. With all the hype it's hard to say it's underrated, but it really is a great (errr... unique) sounding mic for guitar cabs, drums, room, some vocals, etc.

Recently got a pair of AKG D130's. I've been a fan of the D190e for a while, another great sounding mic and a great alternative to an SM57 in several applications I'd say.

These mics are great for the price, assuming you can find one for well under $100. I've been comparing them to my 635a's - they're similar, but perhaps less noticeable low end and a slightly higher mid peak in the D130. The D130 seems to capture a bit more definition, most noticeably in the high end. More "open". The 635a still seems "smoother" in general. I'm excited to learn more about recording different sources with either (and also trying to be honest about my EV dynamics bias).

And of course the D130 and D190e are pretty awesome looking mics...

Anybody out here use the D130? Any experience to share?

[studiodog]

I'm thinking about picking up a 635a, what do you use it on and how do you like it? I've heard it has limited low end... Which do you use more the AKG or the EV?
thanks!
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[Boyd]

At this point if I had to pick one... I'd probably take the 635a! I'm much more familiar with it at this point though, and like I said earlier.. probably a little biased. I do think the D130 is a cool mic though for the right price, and often you can find them significantly cheaper than a 635a. As I use it more I might find more situations or sources where I prefer it over the 635a.

I think the 635a does great on fuzzy guitar leads, either alone or blended with another mic. Also it will help get that old school drum break kinda sound as overhead(s), and also as a mono room mic out in front of the drums. Fun to slam it with compression on drums.

I have an RE16 that I love as well as a PL20 (RE20), I would usually try those before the 635a for cabs and vocals but depending on the part and performance might find reason to use the 635a instead.

If you are interested in the 635a, I'd wait to find one cheap or borrow one and see how you like it (same thing I'd say about any mic really). Then again you can get a brand new one for $100 or so.

[Dr Rubberfunk]

You've reminded me that I picked up a D130 a few years ago and figured it must be broken as I was getting very low levels and very 'thin' sound. I put it away as I'd got an old Shure omni around the same time that I was getting good results from. I must dig out the D130 again - I wondered if it was an impedance issue, I seem to remember mine has a very low (I forget exactly) impedance figure stamped on it ...
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