The best way to record acoustic instruments.

[PH68]

Is there an ideal way to record the following:
Acoustic Guitar.
Bouzouki.
Various wooden recorders (sopranino, descant, treble, tenor).
Bodhran.

We've been using an SM57 about an inch from the guitar, bouzouki & recorder soundholes. The SM57 was also placed at the back of the bodhran.

Have a listen and let us know what you think in terms of the mix and the way the instruments sound.
I can give more info on how we did it all if you wish.

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/7/thesojmusic.htm


Thanks

[Massive Master]

Without listening, I would have to suggest condenser mics for pretty much everything on the list. Maybe not the bodhran... Actually, if it's not being bashed, the bodhran too.

Small diaphragms such as the Shure SM-81 or the Oktava MC012 would be my first choice. Larger diaphragms if the distance is more than a few feet...

Mic placement varies, but I have pretty good results about a foot from the soundboard on the bouzouki over the lower portion of the soundboard and pointed toward the hole.

Guitar can be the same or around the 12th fret pointed at the hole.

Recorders - Mic at eye level or so, a foot or so away, pointed at the players nose is a good place to start.

Bodhran - Foot above, foot away, pointed at the center. Back or front is up to you - More attack on the front, more body on the back.

Hope that gives you something to play with.

John Scrip - www.massivemastering.com