Topic: Mic'n a guitar amp with A SP C3? vs SM 57

[run_run_run]

Would this work out okay? Set it on a card pointing at the amp

[SmokinJoe]

It should work OK.  When you close mic with a card the "proximity effect" comes into play, so flip that switch for the roll off.

[muj]

proximity efefct can be a good thing here though it's a LD with a more controllable effect , i would be more worried about HF emphasis with the condenser. find a dynamic mic if you can.

[run_run_run]

I have access to SM57s

[BradM]

I apologize for the hijack, but the lead guitarist in the band I'm in has been disappointed with the results of using an SM-57:

One thing I want to accomplish this weekend is to get my hands on a nice ribbon mic.....I have found in the tracking of my parts for the EP, that I am not liking the tones at all.  I have this raging beast of an amp, and the recorded sound doesn't have air.  There is a definite direct presence from the SM57, but, no matter where I move the mic, I am not liking the playback.

Well.....here is where I took full advantage of my trip to NAMM!  After a few talks with some engineers, I know what I need to do.  Not only do I need to use my secret little mic placement technique, which I showed Brad, but, I also need to pair the SM57 with another mic placed about 4-5 ft back from the cab.  The matter was finding what that other mic should be.....

On the plane back from LA, I run into.........Andy Cherna, the distributor for Royer ribbon mics in Quebec!  Chit chatted with him, and he saw me demo in the booth, so he tells me that he can get me a sweet deal on a Royer R-122.  Apparently, Royer loves getting, and using, samples of bands that use their mics, so, I will try and close something with him this weekend.  Considering how expensive this mic is, he better get me a sweet deal!  Or at least, let me borrow one for an extended period of time.

Does anybody have experiences using a ribbon mic for a guitar amp, or experience with Royer ribbon mics in general or specifically the R-122?

Thanks,
Brad

[boojum]

SM57's and 58's are used a lot for mic'ing guitar amps on stage.  Some players like the sound.  Whether that is because it is a good sound or a sound they are familiar with I cannot say.  But I have seen these Shures a lot.  They are pretty good hammers and can be used to mic instruments, too.