Guitar tones with SM57

[fris9]

I've noticed that when I'm miking my Marshall cab with a 57 (straight on, against the grill) that I'm having to increase the treble on my head to compensate for a seeming lack on high end on play back. i.e...what sounds good coming out of the cab lacks high end when it goes into pro tools. I've tried different miking placement, wondering if anyone else has this problem?

 

[PhiloBeddoe]

Your ear is probably not resting on the grill like the mic is so you don't hear what it does when listening live. You really have to set any amp based on what it sounds like recorded. This may be a little different than what you're used to using live.

If it sounds good on your recording, don't worry what the amp knobs look like - just dial in and rock!

 

[jonnyc]

Well the 57 has a nice little presence boost which has made it popular for micing cabs. If you're not getting the tone you want try messing with mic and room placement. Try getting the mic closer to the center of the speaker but not dead on.

 

[gbdweller]

Try getting the mic closer to the center of the speaker but not dead on.

Ditto,
Place the mic about 2-3" off center of the cone of the best sounding speaker in the cab, 2-4" away from the grille. Change the angle of the mic towards or away from the center of the cone to adjust your treble response. This has always worked for me with great results!

BTW, as discussed in earlier threads...you need to listen to what the mic is hearing at the board/monitors...not what your ear picks up in front of the cab. Don't ruin the only permanent monitors you'll ever own by placing them in the line of 100+db of sound, expecting to hear what the mic is hearing. You'll only go deaf! Good luck! GB