Acoustic guitar and the RNC

[Smokepole]

Does anyone have some favorite settings they would like to share?

I tried micing around the 12th-14th fret, but actually like the tone better with the mic a few feet away.

I'm not sure how to set the compressor. I've tried experimenting a little but am not thrilled with my results. I'm sure it's not totally because of the compressor so I wanted some advice as to common settings.

Thanks
Joe

 

[pundit]

What mic and mixer/preamp are you using? It sounds like you may be getting too much low frequency soundhole 'woof' when you are micing close. If you are using a cardioid mike then backing it off as you are doing or avoiding pointing it directly at the soundhole should help. An omni mic can also held to reduce boominess as it won't suffer from the proximity effect of a cardioid when used up close.

As far as the RNC is concerned... if you set all the controls to around twelve o'clock and select Super Nice mode, then adjust the threshold control for around 6dB to 8dB of gain reduction on the meter. That should give you a reasonable starting point.

Super Nice mode is the key to the RNC's legendary transparency and will help to preserve the tone of your acoustic.

Non Super Nice mode will result in a more obviously 'squashed' sound and tonal coloration which will become increasingly apparent as you apply more gain reduction.

Remember to make up the reduced gain at the output!

For every 1dB of gain reduction you add 1dB of gain above 0dB at the output. This will ensure the overall average level is maintained.

Cheers

 

[Smokepole]

The mic is a Marshall MXLV77. I also have a Shure KSM27 but this borrowed V77 seems to sound way better considering they're similarly priced? Brighter highs and more body with a rounder lows and mids???

Anyway, V77>DMP3>RNC>Roland digital deck

I never tried the Supernice mode except for final mixdown to 2 track? I'm just going by the directions. I was under the impression it was a very subtle setting . Any other input is greatly appreciated, this is only my 4th song so I have long path ahead of me.

Thanks
Joe

 

[pundit]

Non Super Nice mode is suitable for compressing things like individual drums etc. Where you are recording something that contains lots of different frequencies and overtones (ala acoustic guitar, or a full mix) then Super Nice mode will, while still controlling the dynamics of your instrument, do it far more transparently with the compression action being less obvious.

Basically use Super Nice mode whenever you want really transparent compression.

 

[Smokepole]

Thanks pundit, I learned something! That's why I'm here. That makes a lot of sense, I'm going to try it tonight.

Thanks
Joe