Written by Missy Alvarez, Class of 2022
Now that all of our lessons are online and the scary reality of recorded recitals is right around the corner, your professors may be recommending that you get a better microphone than your built-in computer or phone mic. You may be confused by all the options out there and a broke college student who doesn't have tons of money to spend on new equipment. Well, no need to fear, Missy Alvarez with a (yet to be declared) music technology minor is here! :D
Here are some basic guidelines for mic selection and techniques for recording!
MIC SELECTION PRINCIPLES
There are two types of mics that you would be looking at, USB or analog XLR mics. Here are the pros and cons of each!
USB Mic Pros
- No additional gear required, plug it right into your computer
- Easy set up
- Affordable
USB Mic Cons
- Challenging to record multiple USB mics
- More for podcasting, will not be able to capture the full sound quality of every instrument
Recommendations: Audio-Technica AT2020 USB+, Blue Yeti Mic, Samson Go Mic Portable, Shure MV5, Samson Satellite Desktop, Shure MV51
XLR Mic Pros
- Tons of recording flexibility
- Better sound quality across the spectrum of instrument frequencies
XLR Mic Cons
- Expensive, minimum of around $200 for a mic, audio interface required, XLR cables required and ect.
- Hassle to set up, you will need adequate space (although I have a VERY tiny desk and manage to fit everything fine ☺)
Recommendations: Audio Technica AT2020, MXL 990, RODE NT1-A, Shure SM58, Zoom Handy Recorder
If you've decided on an XLR mic here are some things to consider when choosing a mic:
✦ If you want a natural and smooth quality of sound or a versatile mic with extended highs and highly detailed - Condenser mic
✦ If you want to capture extended lows - Large diaphragm condenser or dynamic mic
✦If you want a mellow, warm, or vintage tone - Ribbon mic
MIC CHOICE / PLACEMENT TECHNIQUES FOR EACH INSTRUMENT
Alrighty, now that you've got your hands on a mic where the heck do ya put the dang thing? Definitely not inside the bell or tone hole!!! Here is a list of recommended mic choices/ placements for each instrument.
Vocals
- Large diaphragm condenser or dynamic mic
- Mouth should be in front of the mic, use a pop filter for plosives
Woodwinds
- General condenser mic of any size is fine
✦FLUTE - Place midway between the lip plate and foot joint, about 2 feet away from the mic or more if piece allows
✦CLARINET/OBOE - Midrange output higher from finger holes, highs more from the bell. Place the mic midway between reed and bell
✦SAX - Some may prefer large diaphragm condenser for better low response. Place the mic midway, but angle slightly towards the bell
✦ BASSOON - Requires more distance miking, due to size and wide splay. Place the mic 3 feet away from the basson and point the mic at the keys in the centre of the instrument.
Brass
- Ribbon mic for more mellow sound or condenser for a more clean, pure sound
✦TRUMPET/TROMBONE - Place the mic out front, 1 foot or so, slightly off axis from the center of the bell
✦FRENCH HORN - Record soloists from behind the player, but in front for ensembles. Large diaphragms condenser or dynamic mic preferred. Place mic behind the player about a foot away
✦TUBA/EUPHONIUM - Use a large diaphragm condenser or dynamic. Place mic 2-3 feet above the bell.
Strings
- A small or large diaphragm condenser may be used, wide splay of sound, take advantage of distance on recording solo instruments
✦VIOLIN/VIOLA - Use a small or large diaphragm condenser mic. Place mic 3-8 ft above the instrument, closer for jazz/pop/fiddle. Watch bow movement before placing mic.
✦CELLO - Use a large diaphragm condenser. Place a little closer, 1-3 feet away, pointing at the f-holes.
✦UPRIGHT BASS - Use large diaphragm condenser or dynamic mic. Place closer, 1-2 feet away and point at the f-holes for classical, a little more towards the pluck point for jazz
(Shameless plug) If you'd like to see how I use microphones, check out my youtube channel!
Despite the world being absolute insanity right now, I'm super excited for this semester with all of you! Feel free to reach out to any of the NAfME officers if you have any questions! Happy recording! :)
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