CHOOSING A DSM Stereo Microphone Model FAQ ... - Sonic Studios

at times i would be recording from quite a far distance from the sound
source -
upper balconies of large concert halls etc.
REPLY: I would suggest no bass reduction for this type of music. Powering the microphone is best done with having the mic
powering MOD-2 upgrade done to the D7. The second option is with using the PA-6 (both options cost $75) ............ or PA-6LC2 $165
with on/off switchable bass rolloff filter
(see MOD-2/PA-x Mic Powering Page for details)
(3) does this mike pick up reasonably well at such far distances?
REPLY: Records virtually the same as heard from any location.
(4) is the mike suitable for both small groups and large symphony
orchestras?
REPLY: DSM-6S/EH is excellent for both situations. However, location is what's most important. Being within 15 foot distance (or
closer) to small groups is an advantage. Balcony positions can be very good, but audience noises (coughing, seating squeaks, etc) is
greater, and some reduction of the upper frequencies (by air absorption from distance) is to be expected with greater than 7 row
seating in most halls
I record mostly acoustic music
(5) can this mike be used with camcorders?
REPLY: Yes, (with using the PA-6 power method), but most all camcorders are using ALC or AGC mechanisms that squash the
dynamics of the music and have inferior sound recording performance in general. Sound quality is a distant 3rd consideration to
video quality in these machines.
(6) WHAT SETTING would I use on the dat machine - low or high
sensitivity....... and is it possible for me to use automatic record level?
REPLY: Use Manual setting if you care about the expressed musical dynamics and mostly use the (L) Low sensitivity (-20 db setting
on other decks) for getting about -12 db VU peak readings unless more gain is needed to accomplish this. Use (H) setting ONLY when
Manual Level knob is at #10 full up and not able to get to -12 db VU for loudest passages.
NOTE: D7 gives better sound if VU maximum peaks are set to be about -12 db..... don't adjust level for quieter passages, but leave at
settings that correspond to only the loudest peaks. (See http://www.sonicstudios.com/tips.htm/ )
I am referring to the lower priced mike which I think you list at $450.
the DSM-1 or DSM-6
for my needs would the DSM-6 do?
REPLY: The DSM-6S/EH is reduced to cost (for now) $450 and is only model (in stock) that would seem to fit your needs best.
thanks for your attention.
I'm attending some concerts next week - Oct. 29th on.
so I would like to order with enough time to receive the mike.