View Full Version : GS vs AT899/831


Shawn Redford
November 15th, 2005, 01:35 PM
I'm looking into purchasing some lavs for documentary interviews. I would like to get two wired lavs (one for the talent and one for the interviewer). I only intend to use the mics for voice.

Can anyone compare the $30 Giant Squid Cardioid Mono (shown here (http://www.giant-squid-audio-lab.com/gs/gs-monocardioid.html)) with the $150 Audio Technica 831? Or, can anyone compare the $25 Giant Squid Omni Mono (shown here (http://www.giant-squid-audio-lab.com/gs/gs-mono1.htm)) versus the $200 Audio Technica 899? I know that DSE has the AT mics and some type of GS, but I haven't seen a comparison from anyone yet. This post (http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=42297) compared a GS with the AT830mW, but I'd like to hear anyone's thoughts on the GS for interviewing.

The GS come standard with a 5ft cable. The AT899 has 10 foot cable. If the GS were used, would a 10ft cable be a problem? - It's just that 5ft will never reach the camera. I plan to hook the lavs up to a Beacktek DXA-8. Or, should I try to convert the lav output via some type of XLR box - if so what would you suggest for the GS mics?

Finally, what do you all prefer for interviews - omni or cardioid? Thanks, Shawn