Kit for Oktava MC012

dpFilms

Member
It's with much trepidation that I write this post.

I waited what I consider to be a respectful number of days beyond the death of the Rode Group Buy to avoid stirring up dust while wounds were fresh. I'm hoping time has healed them.

With that in mind, I'd like advice on a support/protection kit for an MC012.

My pre-Group Buy plan was to purchase a KSSM, Rycote BBG and Rycote Windjammer combo. The Rode blimp deal price at that time make it an attractive alternative. With the Group Buy in the grave and the new street price of the Rode fairly close to the price of the aforementioned combo (the Rode having a slight edge), I'm back to seeking advice from those with more experience than I.

I'll likely do most of my audio work indoors but would like the flexibility to work outdoors as well (ergo the inclusion of the Rycote Windjammer in my combo plans).

Intuitively, I feel a full-on blimp system is a more secure all-around solution offering both wind and damage protection both indoors and out.

Considering all relevant factors: cost, wind/handling noise performance, protection from physical damage, and acoustic transparency, what do the pro's here recommend for a enthusiast such as myself looking for an all around cost-effective solution?

a) K-Teck mount / Rycote combo

or

b) Rode blimp system

Thanks in advance,
dp
 
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I use the KSSM+BBG combo but I have never used it outside and do not have the windjammer anyway. I would recommend sticking to the BBG and using the windjammer with it as you would most likely not want to use the Rode blimp indoors as it is rather large and would then have to have the BBG anyway.

Also, wouldn't the Rode blimp be incompatible with the Oktava anyway as it is almost three times longer than the mic? It is meant for shotguns, no?

I think there is a Rycote wind protection system that has a matching length for Oktava though that is undoubtedly pricier.
 
The Rode system can be adjusted to push the suspension hoops towards the front of a sliding rail so the overall length of the blimp itself shouldn't be an issue.
 
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Nobody wants to touch this topic? Can't say I'm surprised.

It probably doesn't help that I quoted the name of the mic incorrectly. Should be MK012.

Anyone have advice to offer?
 
Perhaps it is simply because the Oktava isn't really an exterior mic anyway. Also, MC012 and MK012 are both correct from what I hear. My Oktava is MK012 though.

Besides, nobody has probably tested the Rode blimp with the Oktava.
 
I'm getting a BBG with windjammer (waiting for it to ship) which I will be using with my MK012. I'll report later on it.

DP - what mixer are you using (just curious)?
 
Nexis: Holla to my home town of Toronto.

My plan is to record directly to a Fostex FR-2LE with perhaps a line out to the camera.
 
Jim... interesting alternative.

Are you using the micover alone for outdoor work? That is, without any additional protection?

Is it suitable for indoor work as well? In place of a BBG for instance?

I realize the MK012 isn't an ideal outdoor mic but I'm trying to get the most mileage for my dollar here.
 
Just make sure you buy the best suspension mount for the Oktava that you can, that mic, while it sounds great, is very sensitive to handling noise. The better and more isolated your mount is, the better your end result will be.

Dan
 
Dan... any specific recommendations with respect to shock mount. Several board members recommend the KSSM with soft bands. Are there others that are equally or better suited?

Also, where would one find the KSSM soft-band version? I don't see it at B&H or Trew.
 
Jim... interesting alternative.

Are you using the micover alone for outdoor work? That is, without any additional protection?

Is it suitable for indoor work as well? In place of a BBG for instance?

I realize the MK012 isn't an ideal outdoor mic but I'm trying to get the most mileage for my dollar here.

So far it's the only wind protection I have used with it, but I did order the Rode, just in case ;-)

We shot a bunch of outdoor stuff this past summer in the mountains with it, and never got a hint of wind noise. But the air was usually pretty calm. It's not better than having a blimp (I've used a BBG with an Oktava before, but never did a side by side), in extreme conditions. But I would put it up against a Rycote Softie. You also have to ask yourself what is going to be the best gamble for your budget. If you are going to be using the Oktava indoors most of the time, I would get a Puffin and spend extra on the shockmount. As has been said, the Oktava is extremely sensitive to handling noise.
 
Pardon my ignorance Mike, but what is a KSSM "tree sell"?

If all KSSM's come with soft bands, that's good news. However, is this truly the case?
 
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