Techniques of Using/Placing Microphones

     Most bands starting out have just one or maybe two microphones for each instrument. When you listen to the playback and compare it to a professional recording, such as a band on I-tunes, the difference is monumental. Most people would just accept that their expensive equipment and studio is the reason that the average garage band doesn't have as good sound. Well you would happy to know that it's not always that case. One way of boosting your sound presence and overall quality is to use maybe three or four different kinds of mics placed at varying distances and angles. The combination of microphones usually consists of a condenser, dynamic, and ribbon microphone. Each of these are specially made to detect varying levels of tone. The mix of these mics will create a well balanced sound that isn't too tinny or too deep.

     This combination of microphones is usually used on guitar and bass guitar amplifiers. However it has been known to use different mics on drums and/or singing too. For instance, the snare drum might have three mics on order to pick up the light and soft hits, the deep tone, and the high pitched snap when it's hot hard. Again the purpose of all the mics is to create a well rounded sound. Just be creative and see what fits the specific sound type of the band. Remember nothing is wrong, only misplaced.