How 'bout them Russian mics?

[jefflaurence]

I read with great interest several articles and one website that takes these really inexpensive Russian "Oktava" mics and mods them to within an inch of being something else..and garners some HUGE praise. Anything to this?

I would love to hear what a russian tube condenser sounds like. They actually make a very hugh grade SOVTEK valve that works quite well in tube condensers. Anyone used one? Comrades?

 

[Chuck]

I read with great interest several articles and one website that takes these really inexpensive Russian "Oktava" mics and mods them to within an inch of being something else..and garners some HUGE praise. Anything to this?

I would love to hear what a russian tube condenser sounds like. They actually make a very hugh grade SOVTEK valve that works quite well in tube condensers. Anyone used one? Comrades?

A few years ago, a guy named Scott Dorsey ran some articles on modifying a variety of mics. The mods really worked, usually significantly lowering the noise floor.

I don't know about the current generation of the Octava mics, but in my previous life, I had some experience with them, since I owned pro-audio company. Cheap condensers were just coming out, and we got in a half dozen Octavas. The first one I took out of the box sounded great. Despite the fact that it looked a little “clunky” I was really impressed with the audio quality. Just to check for consistency, I opened up a few other boxes to see how they matched up. The next one I tried sounded more or less like a Shure SM-57. It was pleasant, but nothing to write home about. It turned out those two were the "cream of the crop." The rest exhibited interesting variations on the theme of "horrible." I've never seen anything as inconsistent. Of the six, only three had matching paint. The rest were odd variations on the color theme. One even had a run in the paint. Even the connectors were different versions of an XLR. I have no idea why. It was very disappointing, and they all went back. We soon discovered Marshall (MXL) and found their Chinese mics were a lot more consistent in the fit, finish and sound quality department. They became our favorite inexpensive condensers, with Rode and Audio Technica representing a good value and a higher quality product at a higher price point.

This is not to say that the Russians can't build high quality mics. Many of the classical recordings that came from the Soviet Union are incredibly well done. Obviously they had the technology. Whether they've ever chosen to export it is a good question.

If you find something amazing, please let all of us know.

 

[djpl]

About 6 years ago I bought an Octava MK 319 from Guitar Center for $100. I love it! It's sounds great with minimal processing. I have used it for VO and recording acoustic guitar/vocals. Was thinking about having it modified but if it ain't broke...

 

[Goat Rodeo Cowboy]

This may be so much useless blabber, but I offer this observation about import automobiles.

Remember when Honda, Toyota and Datsun (now Nissan) first showed up on our shores? A little flappy-fendered and became road-worn rather quickly. They learned from their experience and now they are the standard-setters for non-luxury brands.

Kia showed up a few years ago and I thought... here we go again. Look who is now putting out a good looking product that seems to rate pretty well.

I guess based on all that, it might be a mistake to write off the Chinese or Russian product based on an experience of 3 to 6 years ago. Maybe they learn from the marketplace also. Then again, maybe not.