I am very impressed with the Studio Projects C1 @ $199.00. Airy without the harsh brittle high end found on many affordable large-diaphram condensor mics. It is not "natural" but more of an enhancment type mic---one that sounds much better on my vocals than an accurate neutral mic. It adds body without a boomy bassy sound. Highly recomended. It will require phantom power, and you do need a decent mic pre for any mic to sound good.