I bought this mic here because it cost the same as a used one on ebay, and have used it to record complex (ie varying dynamics, loud/soft, accapella and amplified) music. Despite being near the back of the hall the sound was clear and due to the switchable 90/120 degree pattern, in good stereo. I used it with a Sony MZ900 minidisc, which gave me adjustable record level and mic sensitivity, and would recommend either (or both) to anybody wanting tocapture a variety of live music. One point to note is that, if recording discreetly, ie mic held down at seat level, the side elements (using the 120 degree position) will pick up sounds from the audience. This isn't a criticism of the mic, just that it's quite sensitive and best to monitor the position you use it in before recording. Hope this helps.