Any suggestions for micing acoustic guitar using a Shure M58

  • Thread starter Thread starter KaveKong
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KaveKong

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I love this mic for vocals (obviously, it's the standard live), and I use it to record vocals with total satisfaction, but micing acoustic guitar?

I'm having trouble.

I'm currently running the Shure into an M-Audio soundbox and then directly into the notebook computer using Cakewalk's guitar tracks. Like I said, using the vocals with the mic isn't a problem, and even micing acoustic guitar to make children's songs for my wife is a snap. The guitar sounds fine and the songs sound great for her kindergarten class.

But I don't want fine for my own stuff. I want to feel that bass on the E string like Jack Johnson's music. His acoustic guitars come through so well.

Of course, maybe I'm asking too much? Afterall, my entire setup cost me (including my electric guitar, bass, mic, soundcard/box and notebook) under a grand.

Long story short: Should I try a specific room or mic placement? On vocals I'm right up against the windscreen, but that doesn't work with the guitar at all. It causes a windy sound, believe it or not. Too much vibration within a foot.

What do you recommend?
 
buy a small diameter condencer...a good one can be had for under $100.
 
I'd replace the mic. You can track an ac gtr with an SM58 but IMO it's kind of like driving a nail with a wrench. It's just not the right tool.

Try an MSH1-0 from Naiant studios (omni)

or a KEL HM-1 (cardioid)

or an MXL 603s (wide cardioid)

Use the search function to find lots of info here on ac gtr mics.

Tim
 
by the sound you describe, you definately want a condensor mic. an sm58 will have rolled off low's and hi's and a mid bump.....not the typical pop guitar sound.
 
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