Microphone placement

[mikeandmandyz@m]

I have a Martin D-16, and have 3 mics at my disposal. MXL990, MXL991, and a Shure Beta 58A. The guitar is also equipped with a Fishman pickup. I am looking for some tips in getting the most natural sound possible with this equipment for recording. Thank you from a humble bluegrass musician.

 

[XLR]

Try the 991 a foot or two out from the neck/body joint. It's a bright mic, as is the 990, but on a mellow sounding guitar it's fine. Watch out for room acoustics as that affects the sound as much as mic selection.

 

[mikeandmandyz@m]

Thanks

I have recently learned about the basics of mic placements for acoustic guitar recording, and am really wondering if the Shure will do what I'm looking for.

 

[XLR]

Try it.

Dynamic mic's typically have less detail on acousctic guitar than condensers, but try everything and trust your own ear.

 

[darnold]

i say 990 put 8 inches away infront of 12th fret and the 991 put 8 inches infront of the bridge or a little off to the butt side of the guitar facing bridge. could try using the 58 right up to the sound hole to get a smoother bassier feel but watch out for phasing. about 3 inches infront mic work.

pulling the mics away from the guitar will make it more natural if its in a good room. any more than 12 to 14 inches might make it sound to distant but you can decide that.

danny