Recording a performance outside using 2 mics

[analog aaron]

Hey Guys,

This thurs. our band is performing outside at an event (in a parking lot) and I'd like to record the show using my 4 track recorder. I don't really have access to many power outlets (I think the promoter is running power using an extension cord and a powerstrip- ha. ) so I am trying to do this an easy way. I could use some advice about the best way to record this event. I 'd really like some advice on mic placement? stereo image ? Here's what I have: Mixing board, 4 track recorder, 2 (or more if needed) battery powered condenser mics. If I used more than 2 mics they wouldn't be battery powered just regular mics.
Thanks guys,
Any suggestions would be great.

 

[gecko zzed]

you may try this . . .

one of the simplest things you can do is to put your two mikes on stands in an x-y pattern at a point somewhere where you will get a reasonably balanced sound. Will there be a mixing desk out front, or will mixing be done from the 'stage'? If out front, that's probably a good distance to place yourself, or, if not, where it would be if it were there. Record straight to stereo.

You can get more sophisticated, but if this is a first up, do the walking before running.

 

[analog aaron]

Well.....

There's no stage. We are playing in a parking lot on a busy street for a 5k running event. This is near the citrus bowl stadium (orlando, fl) 8,000 to 10,000 runners are expected to attend. We probably won't have a mixing desk out front (because we won't have a lot of room) I'm thinking we'll have the board behind us with the speaker monitors on stands behind us too. The promoter(s) doesn't know much about bands and such so they are not too much help. We are bringing all of our gear and running sound ourselves. It might look stupid, but I could have the 4 track and mic in front of me(singer) on the ground (?) Can you tell me a little more about this x-y mic pattern?
Thanks so much,
Aaron

 

[leddy]

Aaron-

Use a stereo pair as was suggested. There are many different pattern choices, so just google "stereo mic techniques" or something and read up. Also, use one remaining channel (or two if you are panning in the PA) to take a feed from the board. A pair out front may sound good, but without some close mic'ing it will sound like somone stood out front with a tape recorder. If you mix in a little of the board mix, it should bring some nice presence to things.

Now, regarding the stereo pair, you did not mention what type of mics you have. If they are omni, you are stuck with a spaced pair (unless you have a jecklin disc lying around). Assuming you have cardiod mics, you can choose from XY or a near-coincident method like ORTF. I prefer ORTF. XY is great if you are closer to the source, but in your case, XY may or may not give you an exciting stereo image. Look up ORTF and see how it is set up.

Think about live sound reinforcement - if it's loud on stage, it does not have to be as loud in the PA. Likewise, if it's quiet on stage, it has to be louder in the PA. Taking a stereo pair out front and a feed from the board gives you a good chance of getting everything so you can make some adjustments in post if needed.

Good luck.

Edit- you MUST MUST MUST use windscreens on your mics if it's outdoors. And watch your levels. Set them conservativly, as the volume of the gig will generally exceed soundcheck volume. Try not to adjust things after it starts (unless you are close to overshooting), otherwise you'll create a hassle in post.