one microphone, an acoustic guitar and a singer

[grn]

I want to record a singer and acoustic guitar at the same time using a large diaphragm cardioid microphone. I'd love some suggestions on placement of the microphone. I've had it above the left, but about a foot with the mic pointing downwards towards the singers chest. I'd love to know some pro techniques. I'm getting into minimal mic'ing and capturing a performance in a big way, rather than making a perfect recording.

 

[mjbphotos]

Tough to give a definite answer to this - there are too many variables.
It would take quite a bit of experimentation to determine the correct mic position based on the singer's voice and the volume of the guitar - and how each projects the sound.
I would strongly recommend two mics!

 

[Dogbreath]

2 mics would be "better" but you can do it with one.

I set up an AT4050 slightly above where the singers mouth is...and angled slightly upward. It takes some fartin around with placement but the gist is to get say...a 60% vocal vs 40% guitar into the mic.
As you angle the mic, and move it closer/farther away from the singer you'll find that blend of singer to guitar.

It does leave you limited come mix time but it's doable with good results.

imho, of course....

 

[nate_dennis]

I've done one recording like that and it came out pretty decent. Unfortunately I don't have it to share. I think the guys above pretty much nailed it. You'll have to experiment. On the subject of location (i know you didn't ask but . . . ) I did my recording in a bothroom and the room reflections worked pretty well. "ghetto" i know but I was happy with the results.