PRA 628 MKII : The best budget solution?

Over the years I have used many different microphones of varying prices and quality when miking up my guitar amps. The ubiquitous Shure SM57 obviously has become the benchmark, but for the price, I felt there had to be a better solution.

After much searching, I found this Superlux mic and having heard a couple of encouraging sound clips online, I decided to take the plunge.

The mic itself is very well made, with a metal body and large head. Its an unusual diameter though, so you need the supplied clip to attach it to a mic stand. I did find that attaching it to the clip initially involved more force than I was expecting ? to the point that I thought it would break, it didn?t and it has got easier as time has gone by.

The supplied clip-on goose-neck hasn?t been as useful as I thought, as I have found that when using it live it is easier to dangle the mic over the front of the amp supported by its cable ? the sound when doing this is brilliant!

For recording, I have found it best supported by a small stand. I have used this mic for recording my amp AND I?ve found its great for acoustic guitar. It?s got an incredibly detailed sound, that is far beyond its inexpensive price tag.

In short, this mic punches well above its weight!