Cowbell (mic choice and placement)

  • Thread starter Thread starter jdier
  • Start date Start date
Harvey Gerst said:
If I didn't do that, my answers couldn't be very detailed, since I'd be in the dark as to how to advise them in a particular situation. I'd just be guessing, or offering broad generalities.

Being "notorious" here (I won't say "expert") has its disadvantages; I hafta be very careful as to what what I say to make sure I'm not misunderstood. Plus, it's just a good way to work as an engineer. First, I make sure I understand the question, AND what the questioner is trying to do. I've had singers ask for that "flanging" effect on their voice, when what they really wanted "chorusing".

Sometimes, the more you know about the person asking the question can really help with the answer.
Click to expand...

Harvey, point(s) well taken!! Just proves how experienced you are, I admire that greatly!! Could only wish to find a engineer like you in in my "neck " of the woods;)
I'll post a snip of some "cowbells" for everyone's enjoyment to express my point of view.

T
 
Last edited:
chessrock said:
I got a feva' . . .


And the only prescription . . .
Click to expand...

A local t-shirt shop is selling a shirt with that line & a pic of a cowbell.

PM me if anybody wants to get in on a bulk order :cool:


Disclosure: I have no affiliation with the shop. Never even been in, just saw it in the window.
 
You can use any mic for a cowbell - and other percussion instruments like tambourine. If you want to get a more up-front sound then use a dynamic mic aimed just above or below the cowbell and 3' - 6' out. You can get away with closer miking if you point the mic above or below the cowbell - which will also help you pick up more of the actual note rather than too much of the percussive attack.

If you want the cowbell to sound more blended in the track with more room sound you can use a condenser. Try for more of a room mic effect with the mic 6' or even 10' out - aimed anywhere.

If you already have drums miked and you want a blended sound with some imagery - just use the OH mics that are already set up. Have the person playing cowbell sick at the drum throne and bang away.

A tube mic or a tube pre - or both together - can sometimes work well to take the edge off and mellow out the sound.

The mic positioning matters much more than the model of mic. Put a mic up and have the player move around the room while playing. Listen back and pick the position that sounds best.

Also depends on the kind of music and the kind of cowbell. For straight rock - which has a meatier cowbell - a bit closer with a dynamic is a good choice, For Latin music - where the cowbells are brighter with more hi-end - a small condenser is a good choice - but not too close.
 
Last edited:
I studied cowbell at Berklee in the 80's...
I also played electric cowbell w/ several well known bands for the last 20 years.

Most often, I go direct from the cowbell. (I only use electric cowbells these days, unless the specific song calls for an acoustic model, then I usually rent one, as a GOOD acoustic cowbell can easily run into the thousands of dollars...)

The most important thing to remember is proper dampening of the bell. All other points raised here are moot. (moo-t...)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top