DMP3 vs Yamaha MG Pres

[leddy]

Hey folks, I'm trying to get a little more "silky" sound out of the ride cymbal for straight-ahead jazz recordings. The sound now is detailed, but a bit harsh. I have to EQ out alot of the 4k range. I'd rather leave the EQ alone as much as possible. Mic placing is more challenging because I'm recording live gigs. The OH's (Oktava MC012's) are going through a Yamaha MG board and into Tascam 788. I've had good results with a VTB-1, but I only have one and need it for the vocalist. This problem seems to stay with me through many different mic placements / rooms so I think it is a preamp issue. I've also used the Oktava MK319 for OH, and had same problem. The Oktavas are usually not "harsh" mics so again, I think it's a preamp issue. Any thoughts on that?

Would a DMP3 offer an improvement over the MG? Anyone who has spent time with both and can compare? Or would it be best to wait for a much better pre?

Thanks.

[Dracon]

Originally Posted by leddy

Would a DMP3 offer an improvement over the MG? Anyone who has spent time with both and can compare? Or would it be best to wait for a much better pre?

Thanks.

Yes, but!!!

I have a Yamaha MG10/2 and bought a JoeMeek ThreeQ. While the JoeMeek ThreeQ is nice, I can tell you that there isn't a $200 difference in the sound (especially without EQ).

Stupid question, but do you have a good set of cables or just your average generic cables.

You mention harshness which to me means High Mids or High Range sounds, which generally translates to the microphone or the instrument you are recording. Is the 4K on all the channels, when you record live?
What I mean is, do you find the harshness on say Vocals, drums, bass, and guitar or is it just one only one of those.

I'm not an expert but IMHO it's not your Yamaha, but something else (not necessarily your mics but a possibility).

[leddy]

Thanks for helping:

The problem is really with the drums only. The ride does not sound that harsh live, but maybe I need to listen some more. The cables are not the worst, not the best. I could certainly upgrade them and see what happens. I know that has made a difference in other experiences I have had on other instruments.

Thanks again for the input.