One stereo mic vs matched pair.

[philips]

I've been using a matched pair of large condenser mics (Studio Projects B1) to get "stereo" sound in recordings for a few years; I'm very happy with the results. I record my acoustic guitar playing and vocals at the same time, and do no overdubbing........ just simple "live" recording with each of the 2 mics picking up both vocals and instrument. One of my 2 mics has just died.

So I'm thinking about getting a single "stereo" mic, and using just that in order to get stereo sound. I'm thinking that it would just be quicker and easier working with 1 mic instead of 2.

By going from a matched pair, to a single stereo mic, would I be losing anything as a result (keeping in mind the straightforward live recording I prefer)?

Can anyone recommend a large diaphragm, stereo condenser mic that would produce a similar quality of sound as the B1 mics I've been using? Cost "is" a consideration, so I'd need to keep the cost down as much as possible.

Thanks.

[leddy]

You will be stuck with whatever stereo pattern the mic gives you (usually x-y). Which may be good or bad, depending on if that pattern works for you.

Google "stereo mic techniques" and learn about the different ways of recording stereo. That should help you decide.

Two mics will give you more options. Two mics with multiple patterns will give you all options.

[ofajen]

Originally Posted by philips

So I'm thinking about getting a single "stereo" mic, and using just that in order to get stereo sound. I'm thinking that it would just be quicker and easier working with 1 mic instead of 2.

By going from a matched pair, to a single stereo mic, would I be losing anything as a result (keeping in mind the straightforward live recording I prefer)

As leddy pointed out, you will be stuck with whatever pattern the mike offers. There are coincident, near coincident and widely spaced stereo techniques, so two multipattern mikes would let you explore those options but will be more cumbersome. The stereo mike, OTOH, should be quick and easy.

You can mitigate the "cumbersome" factor somewhat with good tools for stereo recording, like a good stereo mike bar system. Also, two mikes would also let you record "dual mono": one mike on vocal and one on guitar, which might also produce a good result where each location is optimized for that instrument. Good luck and have fun!

Cheers,

Otto