Suppose you’re going to mike a singer, a sax, or a guitar. Which mic should you choose? Where should you place it?

Your mic technique has a powerful effect on the sound of your recordings. In this chapter we’ll look at some general principles of miking that apply to all situations. Chapter 8 covers common mic techniques for specific instruments.

WHICH MIC SHOULD I USE?

Is there a “right” mic to use on a piano, a kick drum, or a guitar amp? No. Every microphone sounds different, and you choose the one that gives you the sound you want. Still, it helps to know about two main characteristics of mics that affect the sound: frequency response and polar pattern.

Most condenser mics have an extended high-frequency ...

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