how can I get the 'string noise' out..

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snailbrf

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I recorded a solo guitar peice a while back and there's a lot of 'string noise' on it. Is there a certain frequency on an EQ that I can turn down?...thanks
 
hi's and mid's

cut some hi's or mid's.(and maybe low's!)

zeke
 
thanks zeke

wow..thats an incredible wealth of knowlage you got there
 
Are we talking acoustic or electric guitar here?

When I record my electric guitar tracks, I like to put a condensor on the strings in case I want to mix in a little of that sound later. It can sound really cool, though pretty much only on clean parts.
 
Unfortunately - its a complete trade off. As you said, you are using an acoustic with steel strings, which brings with it "the noise". The more you listen to it - the louder it gets (in your head).
Until, do a reality check. You hear the same noise on every track played on an acoustic with steel strings. How much depends on the music / fingermovements, on the musician, and on how much EQ and compression they could live with.

Its easy to say "cut some mids", but there is a slight problem - that's where the guitar's own sound lives.

Therefore - its normal, its accepted, people don't seem to mind hearing it, if you really cannot live with it, try another instrument or other strings, and avoid compression, which will increase "the NOISE"
 
Hey Snail,
Have you tried Elixir strings yet? They really do cut down on the finger/string noise. I use them for recording. I think they sound good. Not quite as bright as some other regular strings, but I think the trade off for recording is well worth it. And they last a little longer. My guitar teacher tells me that with good guitar technique that will diminish (he's such a pain in the ass!).


scodu
 
Track with elixers in the first place. For this problem you must eq that chanel with a parametric and two compressors. Do the deessing prosess but with this freq.

It works better than simply EQing it but it still isnt perfect.

Next time get the elixers. they are like heaven dude:cool:
 
thanks guys

that always seems to be the answer any guitar problem "practice more"...hehe.
 
I've also heard that Elixir strings are awesome. They last a LOT longer and they do reduce "string" noise. I'd reccomend that approach.

At the same time, that "string" noise adds to the guitar feel. Hell, some people even have samples of just that "string" noise to add to their midi processed guitars. I personally say don't worry about it unless its overpowering everything. In which case, I'd consider focusing on Technique more then figuring out a EQ setting.

Next you'll be complaining about "Pick" noise! ...

:)
 
yeah, this seems to be a "Fix it in the mix" type of problem, in reality most things can not be fixed in the mix without further damaging the sound. You could get the string noise out but it would kill your guitar sound. In regards to everything you track always think can I fix that now. Cymbals too loud on the drum overheads, just move the mics dont wait untill you mix. Bass not defined enough, just fool with the mic placement a little.
you get the Idea :)

Jeff
Saunavation Audio Productions
 
Sjoko's comments are right on - string noise is a fact of life, and I've heard commercial CDs with string noise from people who can *really* play well.

Having said that, some strings are quieter than others. I abandoned one brand of strings that sounded good because they were really squeaky on slides.

I heard or read Chet Atkins being interviewed once, and he was asked how he overcame squeaky strings. For an answer, he rubbed his fingertips on his oily nose. Not just a joke, I think.

Finally, if you work at it, you can reduce string noise by playing better.

So, as for your noisy track: play it to someone else. Ask for general comments first. Ask about string noise second. If they're not bothered by it, let it go. If they say, 'nice tune except for the string squeak', then retrack the guitar part.
 
Squeaky Strings

I used to use a product called Fast Fret or Finger Ease to cut string noise. It goes right on the strings.
 
I'm not big on the feel of elixers but you can also minimize string noise with mic choice and placement.
 
Which is not going to help if the tracks are allready laid and the player is allready paid.

Hey that rymes, I may become a songwriter.
 
I remember back in school someone had mentioned using talcom power on the player's hands to reduce string noise, may be worth a shot. I can't remember ever having that problem....or I just don't mind it. Gives the performance a little personality.
 
Deesser

Use a deesser. You have to use yours ears where to put it.
 
safarisound said:
I remember back in school someone had mentioned using talcom power on the player's hands to reduce string noise, may be worth a shot. I can't remember ever having that problem....or I just don't mind it. Gives the performance a little personality.
Click to expand...
There's no way I'd put talcum powder on my hands playing guitar. Talcum powder is only good where there is a dry area and odds are your hands get a little wet? It will eventually build up on your strings and kill your sound. Listen to Chet Atkins and use some type of oil and as little as possible to attain your results. You can also reduce string noise by changing your style of playing and using your pickhand to muff your strings in between passages. Another thing you can do is don't record it so hot, turn the volume down and the string noise is what goes first.
 
I agree with NYMorningstar on the powder idea, it was just something I had heard and never tried. I rarely ever have the need to tame string noise either because I don't mind it, or I fix it with mic placement. Won't the oil idea cause dirt buildup in the strings?
 
your welcome!

your welcome safarisound!
let me know if it works good!


zeke
 
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