Rode SM6

I bought one used for $400 with the Electro Harmonix tube. It sounded really good on a couple of sessions, but I replaced the EH with a NOS Mullard and it really made a difference. Great on lots of sources if placed correctly. Highly recommended. I gave an N/A for features. It's a mic. The only complaint I have is negligible. The 7 pin connectors are really tight. I leave the PSU cable connected to the mic & PSU unless I absolutely must separate them.

This shock mount is awesome and B&H had it to me quickly and at a good price. It's light weight but sturdy and works great. I highly recommend the product and he service.

I'm using this microphone for podcasts and screencasts. The power supply for this mic gives a generous boost to gain and doesn't require phantom power. I'm using it when background noise is not an issue. Works well with the Rode shock mounts. This is a very nice mic.

If you are looking for a balance between good vocal recording and affordable price, here you are! Buy this thing and don't think twice...

The Rode NTK has proven to be a good quality tube mic within its price range. The cardioid tube mic differs from it's big brother, the multi-pattern K2, both in functionality and tone. The NTK tends to have pronounced sibilance on certain voices and a general rise in upper mid frequencies. It does exhibit low mid coloration. While this might not be the go-to vocal mic on all sources, I have found it to be a great outside-kick drum mic. It handles high SPL quite easily. Swapping the stock tube for a NOS Mullard, Siemens, Amperex, or Telefunken for better tone is a good option for this mic.