I have used the AKG c 1000 in the past and like it very much. It also records well. Currently I am using The C1000 as a vocal mic and an Audio Technica MB 4000C (Midnight Blues series) as an instrumental mic which has worked very well for me. The A-T mic is reasonably priced...we sell it at the store for $129.00. In performance I play banjo, guitar, and mandolin through it.

Sandy