TLM103 vs KM184. Worth trading?

[ArthurD]

Guys, i got a pair of TLM103s. I only use them for overheads.
For other LDC required mics I use U87 and AKG414.
I've been thinking in trading them for a matched pair of KM184s, for overheads.
Is it a step further or backwards?

 

[JeffTD]

I'd say this would be a lateral move and would depend on what you're tracking. Is it fast, technical stuff or more big, open stuff? You mention U87 and 414; what other condensers do you have in the mix? I wonder if it wouldn't be worth it to trade the 103's in for a cheaper-but-still-good pair of SDCs like Oktavas and spend the extra on a second 414 or towards another 87? 414's are great on OH and I absolutely love having an A/B 'wide oh' + x/y (or a/b again) 'close oh' to balance for cymbals.

 

[xTomx]

^.

I personally hate TLM 103s for the intended role, and love 184 for typical OH duties but they're very different animals.

 

[mva801]

Jeff's suggestion may be the best route. Never loved the 103's for overheads either, but regularly rock 414's, KM84's and u67's for that task. If you only have one u87 or 414 it may be worth just trying to up to a pair of those. Just be careful with the 414 because they've gone through 1,000 iterations and each one sounds different.