I bought two ADK microphones around 8 years ago when they
were considered one of the best mics around at that price point.There
was a buzz around these mics then as they were one of the first
mics around designed in the west and manufactured in China.
I bought two A-51s, an SL cardioid and a TL multi-pattern which
I figured would give me a number of flexible options including
a Mid/Side
setup for the mobile using the SL cardioid
as the mid and the TL in Figure of 8.
Over
the years I have used them on just about everything from a small
choir and a classical piano to loud rock guitars and they are
just a great all round mic. They tend towards a bright sound
which works well on some things but can sound a bit fizzy on
guitars but as always there is always something that they will
do well. I think ADK got it right not just with the mic itself
but the e accesories that come with these mics. The shock mount
is particularly good and lets you get the mic into any close
up situation adnd after 8 years solid use even the aluminium
cases they come in has stood up well.
There
is a lot of negative stuff on the internet about cheap Chinese
condenser microphones and they are often compared unfavourably
to the Neumanns that they are copying. I have to say that the
ADK A51 isn't as good as the Neumann
U87 but why would it be at a fifth of the price? If you
are starting out in recording you are faced with a daunting
array of mics to choose from and while you may not be making
records with these mics they do represent very good value for
money and with a little experience and careful positioning you
can make some great recordings .JR.
