"AKG hit a home run on this one, but the fly ball almost got caught."
Feature:
The mute switch is integrated into the power switch, which is a big negative - it's very easy to turn the mic off when trying to mute it (yielding a lot of noise). The reciever isn't diversity and therefore must be in or very nearly in line-of-sight to avoid dropouts (I find it works best if elevated to at or above performer level, and in DIRECT line of sight, squelched normally). The color-coded clips are a big plus, and can all be changed to black, if you prefer.
Quality:
While the unit is plasticky, it is solid and can stand a few jolts. Road use should be limited to permanent racking, but otherwise is excellent.
Value:
When I bought mine, the price point was unbeatable, but now this item is SO close in price to other systems which offer more features (like diversity or better elements) that it's worth shopping around. The two-packs are more on target with the value, so it's a great buy there.
Desirability:
I hate the shape of the mic. It is oddly contoured and uncomfortable to hold, and does not fit well in standard mic clips. Only rubberized clips smaller than the mic will work, and it must be inserted sideways or upside down to get good grip, exposing the battery casing or hiding the color clip (take your pick). I have big hands, however, so it may just be me. In my opinion, this is the ONLY major flaw in this item.
Sound:
The 880 capsule is great, and has more presence than the SM-58 or comprarably priced mics from Shure, AT, etc. I use this system in conjunction with six wired Sennheiser e815 mics, the sound is virtually indistinguishable, making a great entry-level low budget system. Sounds great on male vocals (baritone-tenor) but lacks a little for a deep bass singer. It works "OK" on female vocals, but lacks the shimmer of a higher-end Sennheiser (e855) and honestly, I prefer the e815 on most female voices because of the 4k presence lift, but bumping the EQ on the AKG has a similar effect (if you can afford the indulgence).
Support:
I have never had to deal with support on this Mic.
Overall:
The mic fits my needs well, in a small church setting. We generally use wired mics (e815s) but we got the wireless to aid in choir solos. I love it from a engineer's standpoint (easy to integrate), enjoy it from a lister standpoint (sonically pleasing), and hate it from a performer's standpoint (becasue of the odd shape).
Thanks for your vote. Can you specify what about this review did or did not help you?