Okay, we're talking about IEC Type I capsules, not the cheap electret
ones. For the most part, the reason B&K made "recording" versions of
their measurement microphones was cost. People didn't want to spend
$12,000 for a pair of recording mikes.

Well, obviously you know more about this than I do. I remember having
read though that B&K did a rather extensive redesign of their capsule
to optimize the sound for recording. Maybe my memory is wrong there.

Regardless I really like the DPA 4003 sound and I think the newer
4006TL is coming close (the 4003 and 4006 have the same capsule but
different electronics). They are nothing like low-priced though but do
keep their value on the used market. An added benefit is the selection
of acoustical grids that can be used to tailor the frequency response.

I have also used the Microtech Gefell M296 which to my eyes looks
derived from their line of measurment mics (but as stated, I am no
expert). This is also a lovely mic, but it is more specialized than the
smaller DPA-s in my experience. While the 4003 always sounds good, the
M296 may not be the right tool every time.

Gunnar

GUnnar