Reducing Extra Noise...

[bowler_man]

Hey guys, so I've recorded a couple acoustic songs with my MXL 993 microphone. I just want to say, I love this thing. I even record my vocals with it, it's awesome. But, I keep getting extra unwanted noise in the recordings. For example, my guitar pick strumming against the strings, my thumb accidentally tapping the guitar, or that annoying squeak from my fingers running up and down the strings. Any tips on reducing these issues? Should I just get further away from the microphone (I stand about an inch and a half away)?

Thanks guys!
-Jimmy

 

[Massive Master]

The mic is just doing its job. It's up to you to make the sound you want the mic to pick up.

 

[bowler_man]

The mic is just doing its job. It's up to you to make the sound you want the mic to pick up.

Alright, that makes sense. Thanks!

 

[EvanHilz]

those things you listed are not necessarily bad noises. as was said.. the mics are just doing their jobs. the noise of your thumb hitting the guitar or the squeak of the strings against your fingers are just part of that particular performance. and sometimes they are vital to a really amazing performance. if its unwanted, your better off just getting a different take of it where it all sounds wanted. you can also play with compression settings and maybe reverb to make those noises less noticable

 

[Dani Pace]

Life is funny sometimes. We get better mics hoping it will improve our recordings, only to discover they not only capture the sounds we want but they also pick up other sounds, the ones we don't want. When this happens we have to work to improve our technique or recording environment so those unwanted sounds are no longer there (or at least less obvious.) One thing you can be sure of is that good mics will let you know if your playing or gear (guitar/amp) isn't as good as it could be. Mics can't distinguish, they just pick up sounds, if it's music they "hear" music, if it's noise they hear noise.