Tony,
There is a major difference between the E-855 and the 835. The super-cardiod pattern alone makes it worth the extra money. However, having tried both the E-855 produces superior vocal qualities, covering a wide range of frequencies and providing outstanding clarity. I have an E-855 for studio work and it's excellent.
The best handheld mic I have is a Samson Q-7, which is relatively inexpensive and it actually sounds better (IMO) than my E-855. I've seen them as low as $69 on some internet music sites--check it out.
Good Luck,
Gary
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Travlin' Easy
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PSR-S950, TC Helicon Harmony-M, Digitech VR, Samson Q7, Sennheiser E855, Custom Console, and lots of other silly stuff!
K+E=W (Knowledge Plus Experience = Wisdom.)