The Z5600a MKII provides you with a whole host of polar patterns to use when recording.
Cardioid is excellent for providing a tight, focused sound, with great rejection of around 6dB on off-axis sources. This is an ideal pattern to use if you're recording in an untreated room which may introduce undesirable reflections. It is also popular for live performances.
Fig. 8 picks up sound from the front and rear of the diaphragm, but not the sides. This polar pattern was used on many classic recordings to capture harmonies from two vocalists simultaneously. This polar pattern increases proximity effect, making it great to use should you desire to record an intimate vocal part.
Omni-directional captures sound from every angle. This is as natural as it gets. You're best using this if you want to document the way in which a room responds to your performance. This is why many pro-engineers opt to use this polar pattern on room microphones to add a unique sense of depth to their recordings. Omni is also great for getting up close to the microphone without having to worry about an increase in proximity effect.
There's good reason why the Z5600a MKII sounds so great. Each capsule is made by hand and is tuned by humans. There's no robot assembly or compromise on quality here. The all-metal housing, and gold spluttered diaphragm ensures that this tube microphone is designed to be consistent in quality and have a long-lasting life.
If you're recording loud sources and are worried about inappropriate levels saturation being introduced then you have nothing to fear. Engage the -10dB filter to reduce the microphone's sensitivity. This makes it ideal for up close on drums and guitar amps. The Z5600a MKII is an all-round work horse.
"The Z5600a II is a mic that you could just leave up in your tracking room and record with any instrument in combination with a close up mic. The switching in between the three patterns of the capsule is a great way to dial in the depth of your room. Another workhorse in my mic collection." - Troy Van Leeuwen, Queens of the Stone Age, A Perfect Circle