Blue Spark

Hey guys, here we have something awesome for project studios. The Blue Spark is a small solid-state condenser that has some really nice components and no sound coloration. One of the most awesome features are a set of filters on the mic that are set to be easy to use. They are located at the bottom of the mic and are push buttons like the AKG mics. This mic as they say will "spark" creativity because of its unique looks and also the fact thats its dirt cheap. For 200$ you really cant beat it for a long shot.

Tech' specs

Transducer: Condenser

Polar pattern: Cardioid

Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz

Sensitivity: 28mV/Pa

Output impedance: 50 ohm

Rated load impedance: Not less than 1 ohm

Maximum SPL: 128dB

S/N ratio: 84dB

Noise level: 10dB

Power requirement: +48V phantom power

Weight: 1.25 lb.

Dimensions:

Length: 7-3/4"

Diameter: 1-3/4"

Neve Portico II

The portico 2 is the newest channel strip in the Neve lineup. It features a mic preamp and a dynamics effects section. One of the cooler features on the portico 2 is the silk section and how it can add texture.

"One of the key developments in the Portico II is the new Texture section. Building on the “Silk” mode found in the Portico Series mic pre-amplifiers, Texture is designed to adjust the actual amount of harmonic music content from the source material, in effect, providing countless tonal options in one device. The texture section features distinct modes, controlled by a potentiometer from barely audible to dramatic! With that said, we have placed great care insuring that the musical integrity of source material itself will not be compromised by these harmonic controls (these are not to be confused with controls from other manufactures that may “incinerate”, “demolish” or “destroy” source material), and we believe they can be confidently modified to fit the personality of any song, instrument or engineer.Like the original Portico, Silk mode works by reducing negative feedback on the output transformer and adjusting the frequency response to more closely resemble Mr. Rupert Neve’s vintage designs. “Silk +” mode pushes this technique still further, achieving a more harmonically rich sound."

The texture feature really make Neve and his products stand out from the rest. He has a passion to bring the same emotions of a live show to the recording process. The portico 2 runs about 3,100$ so start saving up because its a beast!

Ref

http://rupertneve.com/products/portico-ii/