We are concerned about comparative sound quality, not "the best" specs. We can only compare mics by ear. No two manufacturers provide complete test data, or conduct their tests the same way. Even if there were a standardized way of testing a mic, specs cannot relay how the microphone effects the tone/timbre. Some of the best spec'd equipment is not very fun to listen to.
Consider the noise specs. Some manufacturers post preamp noise specs as the spec for the entire microphone. Some manufactures use a dBA rating as opposed to a dB rating. What's the difference? About 10 real-world decibels of noise. Few manufacturers post the specs for the entire mic, and if they do, it is in dBA's.
Positive Impressions
All of the microphones were great at something and good at others. I would not hesitate to recommend any of them to you. The following summarizes my thoughts on individual mics, during the course of the sessions. These are not technical thoughts, but notes made when something struck me as being positive.
Audix SCX25:
"Great on piano from 440 down. The low mid resonance is not bloated. The bottom is tight! Above 440, captures the percussive elements well. 8kHz with this mic has a dramatic effect on the tone. Easy to place."
"Great guitar mic! Very detailed top end. Finger and mechanical noise sounds natural, unexaggerated. The bottom is good. This mic and a 1dB/1.0 Q boost at 60Hz is great. I don't need the Pultec."
"I LOVE this on females! Uncolored low-mids. Nice sheen."
"Barritone and trombone reproduction is faithful. Captured and reproduced the elements and mechanical noise of the sax. Oboe = oboe. Not my favorite trumpet mic."
"Male vocals sound good. Big and full. Not colored/exaggerated enough on the bottom end for thin bass voices. Pop vocals sound great."
"Rack toms sound nice. Floor tom sounds big, powerful, tight. Aluminum snare is pretty darn punchy. Just outside of the kick drum is NICE!"
Audix M1290:
"Great choir mic. Lower profile, richer tone, higher output, thus less noise than the installed industry standard mics."
"These would be great for a small, portable choral or recital recording rig."
"Easy to place."
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Experiencing Worship, The Study