Electro-Voice ND86 Dynamic Supercardioid Vocal vs Nady DM-70 Drum and Instrument Microphone

Overview of the Electro-Voice ND86 and Nady DM-70

The Electro-Voice ND86 is a high-performance vocal microphone, while the Nady DM-70 is tailored for drums and instruments. Each microphone serves distinct purposes in the audio landscape, catering to different user needs and environments. The ND86 is priced at $144.00, making it significantly more expensive than the DM-70, which retails for $32.99. The price difference highlights a disparity in intended usage and performance capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

Design-wise, the Electro-Voice ND86 boasts a robust, large-diaphragm structure aimed at delivering high-quality sound in large venues. Its durable Memraflex grille is engineered to withstand rough handling, making it suitable for intense performance settings. In contrast, the Nady DM-70 features an all-metal construction, emphasizing reliability in demanding environments. While the DM-70 is designed for close-miking instruments, both microphones prioritize durability, albeit for different applications.

Sound Quality and Performance

Sound quality is a critical factor where the Electro-Voice ND86 excels, offering a present and detailed sound with superior isolation on stage. The ND86 is particularly effective in capturing vocals with clarity and depth, thanks to its precisely tuned dynamic capsule. On the other hand, the Nady DM-70 is designed to handle extremely high sound pressure levels, making it ideal for percussion and brass instruments. With a handling capacity of up to 145dB SPL, the DM-70 ensures distortion-free reproduction even in loud environments.

Microphone Pattern and Application

The Electro-Voice ND86 utilizes a supercardioid pattern, which offers excellent acoustic control and isolation from ambient noise during performances. This feature makes it particularly well-suited for vocals in live settings. Conversely, the Nady DM-70 employs a cardioid pattern that allows for close miking without bleed-through from other instruments, making it versatile for both drums and various other instruments. Each microphone's pickup pattern reflects its design intent, catering to specific performance scenarios.

Handling Noise and Isolation

Handling noise reduction is a prominent feature of the Electro-Voice ND86, which incorporates a shock-mounted capsule to minimize unwanted noise from handling or vibrations. This design is vital for maintaining sound integrity during performances. The Nady DM-70, although focused on instrument capture, also integrates a special rubber shockmount mic holder that reduces floor vibration pick-up. Both microphones demonstrate effective noise handling strategies, but the ND86's features are particularly fine-tuned for vocal performances.

Price and Value Proposition

In terms of pricing, the Electro-Voice ND86 is positioned at $144.00, while the Nady DM-70 is priced significantly lower at $32.99, making it about 77% cheaper. This difference reflects the ND86's advanced features and high-performance capabilities suited for professional vocalists in larger venues. The DM-70, while more budget-friendly, offers solid performance for drums and instruments, making it a great choice for musicians and bands on a budget.

Sales Rank and Market Position

The Electro-Voice ND86 has a sales rank of 44,080, indicating a niche but respectable position in the market for vocal microphones. In contrast, the Nady DM-70 holds a better sales rank of 25,902, suggesting a broader appeal among users, particularly in the drum and instrument microphone category. The difference in sales rank may reflect the targeted audience each microphone is designed for, with the DM-70 catering to a larger segment of musicians and bands.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Electro-Voice ND86 and the Nady DM-70 ultimately depends on your specific needs. If you're a vocalist performing in larger venues and require a microphone that excels in sound quality and noise handling, the ND86 is the clear choice despite its higher price. However, if you're looking for an affordable, reliable option for capturing drums and other instruments, the Nady DM-70 provides excellent value at a fraction of the cost. Each microphone serves its purpose effectively, making your choice contingent on whether you prioritize vocal clarity or budget-friendly instrument performance.