Miri
Dulci-Psaltery (0 - 10 Posts)
Posts: 4
|
Post by Miri on Mar 30, 2008 20:54:10 GMT 1
Hi all, I'm hoping for some pointers with regard to the best way to record the hammered dulcimer. I am no sound engineer and have now realised that aiming a vocal mic at one of the sound holes and hoping for the best simply isn't going to work ..... I'm assuming I need some sort of pick up? Any help with this one greatly appreciated.
|
|
|
|
Post by Dick Glasgow on Mar 30, 2008 23:25:40 GMT 1
Miri, Sorry, I know nothing about Mics, but any time my H-D has been recorded in a studio, the engineers have simply suspended two instrument mics above the H-D ~ simple as that.  Cheers Dick |
|
|
|
Post by Nikita on Mar 31, 2008 8:23:55 GMT 1
I've had a few not-so-good experiences with pick-ups : HD is an instrument with a lot of attack, meaning, each time you hit the strings, it gives a very strong signal in the mikes, and it most the time makes them saturate. I use pick-ups which I stick on the side of the instrument (not underneath or on the sound boards), and then I have to equalize on the mixing table : boost the bass, no medîums, and a very wee bit of treble. then it gives a sound not too harsh... the best sound I've ever had was with two mikes hanging over the instrument, with 2 very directional mikes (high quality...) Marc Ramser has a pick-up system, built-in the Hackbrett : a layer of piezos between the bridges and the sound-board, which works quite well. but he spent a lot of time on it, to find the right mikes... |
|
Miri
Dulci-Psaltery (0 - 10 Posts)
Posts: 4
|
Post by Miri on Mar 31, 2008 23:10:36 GMT 1
Thanks both, will experiment with the two mics dangling.
|
|
giles
Dulci-Psaltery (0 - 10 Posts)
Posts: 3
|
Post by giles on Sept 3, 2008 23:44:10 GMT 1
Using pick ups should be an absolute last resort for recording any acoustic instrument. And avoid EQ as far as possible.
Generally the closer the mic(s) goes the more attack you will get. Further away will sound more mellow and probably more natural; it would also give you more room sound so if you're in bad acoustics (e.g. your bedroom) that could give you problems. If it does try making a tent with blankets and duvets.
Dynamic mics (like SM57 or 58) tend not to pick up much treble or bass so are not great for the HD. Get a condenser or ribbon if you can.
Hope that helps. If you find anything that works well please post it up!
|
|
