Battery powered condenser mics

In a previous post I talked about how much I love dynamic mics, and how everyone should use them everywhere. All the time! Of course, that's not 100% true.
Dynamic mics will not always give you enough low and high end clarity for some instruments or voices.

But, if you're using a cassette 4 track, or older digital multi tracker, you probably don't have XLR mic jacks that provide the 48v phantom power required by condenser mics.
Buying an external preamp is the best and cheapest way to get around this problem. Then you can choose from hundreds of condenser mics available.

However, if you're someone who really likes to keep your recording setup streamlined and simple, and don't want to add another piece of external gear, there are a few battery powered condenser mics available.

Shure SM94 (also, Beta Green 4.0/4.1)

This microphone has existed in the Shure lineup for many years, but with different names.
Originally called the 849, then rebranded as the Beta Green 4.0, then the BG4.1, now it is called the SM94.
The body and capsules have remained the same but Shure says the SM94 has improved noise floor compare to earlier versions.

I own the BG4.1 version and I'm very fond of this mic. I've bought, sold, and re-bought them 4 times now. They just keep finding their way back into my mic drawer.

It does not have overly hyped high-end, like many newer mics do. It's response is mostly flat, but the bass starts to roll off a bit early. Overall, it's just a good solid mic.
The performance is of course better when using phantom power, compared to battery. But it is still a big step up from a dynamic mic.

My initial 4 track recording setup in the 90's started with a Tascam 424, SM57, and BG4.1. In all honesty, those two mics were probably all I needed for the rest of my recording life. But, microphones are like a sickness and, once bitten, you're never happy.

The SM94 is still being sold new. They don't seem to show up used on eBay that often.
But, the BG4.0/4.1 is very common on eBay and can usually be found fairly cheap. I paid only $35 for one of mine! But, $75-85 is probably a more realistic and fair price to expect.

Uses phantom power, or a 1.5v AA battery

RODE M3

This is a mic I've had my eye on for a while, but is not one I've ever used. So I can't say much about it, except to point out that it exists as a battery powered option.

However, I've used other Rode mics in the past, and typically their stuff is top notch. Reviews on this mic seem very positive. If you've used it before, let me know what you think.

Uses phantom power, or a 9v battery.