Re: Lavalier Mic comparison
Absolutely +1 regarding the digital Line6 XD-V75 systems. I've got 14 of them with a mix of Countryman B3, B6 and Sennheiser MKE-2s. Unbeatable in terms of sound quality in my opinion. Unlike the cheaper analogue RF gear, you'll get a crystal clear non-companded signal from the capsules, and you can start off with cheap 'throw-away' £30 mics, and upgrade to Countryman B3s, etc for principal actors or more important shows.
The only reason I'd personally consider using anything more expensive is if I needed more than 14 channels, or was particularly concerned about RF stability for a large venue. Having said that, if you position the XD-V75 antennas sensibly, you won't have an issue in any typical theatre scenario. I rented some Sennheiser EW500 systems last month when I needed a few extra channels, and the sound quality from the XD-V75s was noticeably better, despite the Sennheiser kit being twice the price.
In the USA the XD-V75s are about $450/channel, which I appreciate is quite a bit more than the 2 models you're considering at the moment.
Bear in mind that the lapel mics normally bundled with presenter/speech orientated systems will be directional and an absolute nightmare to try and use in a musical theatre situation, without getting a load of cable noise and clothing rustle - especially if there's any dancing! You really need either omnidirectional lavaliers mounted in the hairline (for the most natural sound), taped to the cheek (if you struggle to get enough gain before feedback otherwise), or ear/headsets.
