Stereo small diaph. vs single large diaph.

[Hadji]

Here's the deal. I currently don't have the capabilities to send my stereo overheads into my computer in stero. That being said, would 2 PG81's as stereo overheads mixed down to mono be better or worse than one good large diaphram condenser over the middle of the kit. Follow up question: since I play on buying a large d regardless of the answer to the first question, can anyone recommend a good one that comes in under $200?

[Moseph]

Here's the deal. I currently don't have the capabilities to send my stereo overheads into my computer in stero. That being said, would 2 PG81's as stereo overheads mixed down to mono be better or worse than one good large diaphram condenser over the middle of the kit. Follow up question: since I play on buying a large d regardless of the answer to the first question, can anyone recommend a good one that comes in under $200?

If you're doing jazz, go with 2 small diaphragms as overheads.

For other styles, I'd probably go with the stereo image as well, but it's really up to you.

As for starter condensers under $200, check out the Road NT1-A or the Studio Projects C-1. I've used both and like them both a lot.

[airborne50caliber]

Rode nt1a indeeeeed

[Hadji]

The reason I'm thinking about going for 1 large d overhead is that right now I don't have the mics to mic the hats and ride and if I got a large d overhead I could take my small d's and use them for ride and hats.

[Moseph]

Whatever, that's cool.

I typically just use overheads because the hat/ride would be picked up pretty well by that stuff. If you want to just get the one extra mic, I'd stick it on the hat.

Play with it. See what you like.