CR and CM element mics
It seems that I've come to the conclusion that I need to pick up a good CM or CR mic. I've been playing through a few nice dynamic mics, but, as David says, every blues harp player needs at least one good CM or CR. I have an old Commando, but it seems to my ears to play too bright. I hear many good things about the JT-30 and Shure bullets, although I've yet to test the waters of a mic that big as far as good cupping (I've been using stick mics and an Electro-Voice 638). So, any advice or experiences, models, type elements, etc.?
I've been looking at a few Turner 254's with shaved fins. The size of those reminds me of an old Philips mini-bullet that I've used some for chromatic and alternative tuning playing, but that one is too clean and undistorted for full-on blues. I've also heard good things about the Shure 7As and 707s with CR elements.
Hello Reverblow,
Before embarking on the stormy seas of the mic element itself, narrow the field of choice by considering the "fit" of the mic's shell to your hands first, then establish which elements it will accommodate. Fortunately, the full-sized CR and CM elements will squeeze into all of the shells you are considering, even the earlier/smaller SHURE crystal-equipped mics and the ever-plentiful JT-30 and its derivatives. The SHURE examples you've sited (7A and 707) can be rather pricey if/when you do find them and don't offer any significant advantage over their litter mates other than the elevated "juju/mojo/blah-blah" factor their relative rarity represents. Find examples, try 'em on and try 'em out -just like running shoes...
The CR and CM elements aren't true necessities (many major players have done well with dynamics, etc.), merely popular common denominators that provide a fairly predictable result while affording a degree of stability crystals aren't known for. By the way, your Commando (SHURE 420?) in fact contains a Controlled-Magnetic element. However, as it's of a smaller format, it generated much less output and does sound quite "bright" when compared to the full-sized versions.