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Gear / Technical Help => Microphones & Setup => Topic started by: johnw on September 11, 2017, 01:20:57 PM

Title: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: johnw on September 11, 2017, 01:20:57 PM
I'm looking for a cheap mic to mix an amp and acoustic instruments. The Shure SM57 seems like the simple answer but was wondering what other stuff is out there in that price range. I know the 57 is used on amps a lot, but am not sure how well that would do from a distance to mic an acoustic guitar and mandolin.
Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: anodyne33 on September 11, 2017, 05:13:57 PM
I don't know that there's a good catch all. When I worked in a studio we'd typically start with a 57 )and experiment with axis, distance and cone placement) and maybe a TLM103 a 414 distance. For acoustic instruments the starting point was something like a KM84i or two and a U89 or the 103 and maybe a ribbon as well. That was true of anything from an upright or a guitar (usually one focused on each bout) to a grand. Now, if we had something else in at the time in at the time we give anything a shot. Basically for a whole group (rock bands to string quartets) we'd set a day aside to mic the session.

/long winded rant

What I'm trying to say is, there's not one catch all that I know of, but normally a dynamic and a condenser made a good pair. Now, you don't have to drop a few grand on a TLM103 and a KM84i. MXL, Blue and AT make respectable mics in the sub $100 range that can get you up and moving.

I guess I should have asked if you're recording or doing sound reinforcement first. for live applications you'll see the AT451 everywhere on every thing from mando to guitar to fiddle. Makes a great hi hat mic too.
Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: johnw on September 11, 2017, 05:43:55 PM
Thanks for the suggestions - this is for backyard concerts.

By AT451 did you mean an AKG 451? or AT 4051? Both are significantly more than the 57 and I'm trying to keep this around $100/mic
Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: Ronmac on September 11, 2017, 08:05:30 PM
The Audio Technica 2020 is a great mic for cheap, but if you are using it live you need to be aware of its pickup characteristic and sensitivity to avoid feedback. It sounds great on acoustic instruments and I can't think of a better all rounder (with caveats) in the same price range.
Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: anodyne33 on September 11, 2017, 10:04:59 PM
Thanks for the suggestions - this is for backyard concerts.

By AT451 did you mean an AKG 451? or AT 4051? Both are significantly more than the 57 and I'm trying to keep this around $100/mic

I'm nuts. I was talking AKG 451, but I didn't realize what the price point was. Try a Sure SM94. Still a good SD for acoustic instruments.

Used will be on par $ with a new 57

Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: HealthCov Chris on September 12, 2017, 02:25:43 PM
What about the Studio Projects B1 or B3?  I have heard they sound really good for the price.  The B3 gives you adjustable pickup patterns too.
Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: johnw on September 12, 2017, 03:07:55 PM
Thanks I'll look into those options as well.
Title: Re: Mic for close micing amp/acoustic instruments
Post by: Todd R on September 12, 2017, 04:57:24 PM
There are a number of options for low priced condenser pencil mics for $100 each or $200 a pair.

Check out the Rode M5:
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1014748-REG/rode_m5_mp_matched_pair_2_m5.html

The Beyerdynamic TG I53C:
https://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-Condenser-Cardioid-Microphone-Instruments/dp/B004XHA49I

The precursor to these beyers, the MCE 530:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/BEYERDYNAMIC-MCE530-STEREO-PAIR-DIAPHRAGM-ELECTRET-CONDENSER-MICROPHONES-/272653275440?epid=69823463&hash=item3f7b66d130:g:dcgAAOSwX61ZB1Wi


Of course, if you're up for spending more and have time for international shipping, you can pick up a pair of the Line Audio CM3's for $300 shipped.  Excellent mics.