Recommend a dope studio mic around $400

[cacti]

Id preferably like to have multiple pickup patterns

[shuutobi]

http://rodemic.com/microphone.php?product=NT2-A

[lapieuvre]

http://gauge-usa.com/

Check out the compare page where you can listen to different instruments

My favorite is the ECM-47

[fishmonkey]

for recording what?

[Laurens48711]

Allthough available in different brands: I like the AKG Perception series, but do you really need multiple patterns? If not: check out the AKG C214.

[maze23a]

I use a AT 4040 and this one is really good for the money.
For multiple pattern check out the 4050!
Also it's always the best to try some if you have chance.
Rode's are also worth a try!

[Jan Holm]

At this price I would buy used or a SE Titan. I know people
who payed 1500$ for it in 2007. It's being fased out but you
should be able to find it within your pricerange. Multipatterns
and hard to beat the price.



Sound sample http://www.vocalimpactmedia.com/SoundStorage.html