Funky Jam: Testing 1, 2, 3

  • Thread starter Thread starter WhiteStrat
  • Start date Start date
My secret weapon? Baby Jess rocks the snare.
 

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Some final thoughts on tracking drums...

My drums are very mediocre. My mics are all either cheap or average at best. But I think the results are there. It really ain't all about the gear.

First, I've found that decent heads do wonders for an even mediocre kit. Then there's tuning 'em. Easily the most important thing. Seriously. And of course playing. My drummer/son-in-law doesn't just play the drums, he owns 'em. That tight/loud/confident playing is just easier to record.

And as far as the mics go, I've found that placement is almost more important than the mic itself. As long as you're in the ballpark with the mics, the rest of the mic battle is in placement.

I don't play drums at all, but I spent two hours moving mics, smacking drums, listening, adjusting and repeating before Josh came over to track. Once I found each drum's sweet spot, all I had to do was turn down the levels (apparently I just "flick" the drums, while he HITS them!).

Sorry--you asked for a pic or two and I wrote a frikkin dissertation. Oh well, I hope it helps someone...
 
Thank you for that follow up. It was most helpful. I find it amazing you're getting such a rich tone from your snare, while only mik'ing the batter head. Every time I've tried that technique, I get a pretty blah-ish tone with no crack at all (and I'm also using an i5). Maybe that's just because back then I didn't know how to tune my drums worth crap. Hmm.... I think I'll be trying that technique again.

Thanks tons, Whitestrat.
 
If you move that snare mic up and off the rim a little you can get more snare in one mic. Think, 1-2 inches up, and 1-2 inches back from the rim.
 
Thanks a million for the pics and the info. I have a better understanding of your process that will help me in my recordings. I'll try to give you a few points. Thanks again.
 
I think you have produced an amazing mix - even more amazing after seeing the pics.

Sounds perfectly balanced dynamically and tonally - throw some vocals in there and you got yourself a song...
 
WhiteStrat said:
What do you play? :)
Click to expand...

HAHA - that's a tough one - I guess keyboards would be the most appropriate answer. I mostly just screw around with everything (bass,guitar, keys, vocals)- there are two of my songs posted here in the mixing clinic if you want to get a feel for it. (funky Monkey and Playground)

Maybe we could send each other some songs that have some missing sections and then contribute some instruments or something? Like a collaboration type thing - that sounds interesting.

Maybe I will take your track and add some crap to it and post it for you to see what you think?

I was just kind of joking around about wanting to join your band, but it's only because you have some impressive skills.
 
Great musicianship. Great sound. No nits. OK the rhythm guitar could maybe use a bit more beef. Personal taste thing.

But all in all, real real good.
 
This is just great. I love the new studio room and I know that there is going to be some awesome stuff from there.

P.S. How are you keeping that nephew of yours out of there. Or have you even told him about it yet. I tell you what, you would be the uncle that never lost sight of me with that set up. LOL.

Jam on dude. The trial jam is awesome.
 
I like the pop in the snare! I love the rythm guitar tones balls out raw rock...Love your room....Im jealous!
 
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