dilemma: recording without pissing off neighbors

[mikew987]

I could use some advise about noise etiquette when it comes to recording in an apartment. I really want to mic my fender princeton 65 amp. I've been reading posts that say when you mic an amp you should set the volume really loud. What volume level do you guys suggest I set it on to avoid pissing off the units around me. When I usually practice I never even go past level 2.

--If this helps I'm on the first floor and the aparments aren't the kinds with hallways, theres individual buildings spread out. Also its pretty expensive so I'm assuming the walls are pretty good quality.

[The Green Hornet]

Yo MikeW987=Bingo:

Run a test. Go to your closest neighbor, or neighbors who might be affected by your volume; test the volume and get their input.

Or, run your ax directly into the recorder by using a GK amp that has a by-pass the speaker plug; I have one of those and it works.

I have a condo neighbor and I have upped my playback volume from my monitors and walked into the "other" condo to listen. There was very little to hear but some people are just hard to deal with.

But, if you test your levels by consulting your neighbors, you can find a happy medium. Or, record in a place where no one can hear you, maybe a friend's basement or closet?

Merry Christmas
Green Hornet

[DavidK]

Mike, bless you! You care about the neighbors, way to go!!
We have had some problems here (check out my thread "neighbor problems (attn buck) I wrote a few weeks back).

Some Ideas:
1: Nothing after 10 PM on weekdays, 11 on weekends.

2: (the important one) If you think you are too loud, you are too loud!

3: Get the neighbor's schedule, and work around them.

4: It is the Bass that effects the neighbors. Do your best to get rid of it (get the amp's off the floor, etc)

5: Give the Neighbors your phone number, and treat them well. Tell them your plan, and let them know you dont wish to disturb them.

6: If this doesnt work, MOVE!! Dave

[Meshuggah]

You could buy a Hüghes&Kettner Red-Box.. Those little buggers sound GREAT!
http://www.hughes-and-kettner.com -> Accessories.

Doesn't say on that webpage, but you connect that box to the speaker-cord and it will simulate the speaker for you.

[SPINSTERWUN]

The advice DavidK gave you is probably your best bet.

spin

[Meshuggah]

Nope.. mine was!!