Small or Large Diaphragm?

[jpib7]

Hi all,

I have two mics: an AT4033 and a Rode NT3. For micing my accoustic guitar, which one would you recommend? I would say the AT is a better quality mic, but I've heard people recommend small diaphragm mics in general for instrument recording. Of course I will do some trial and error with both mics, but I wanted to get your opinions from your experience - especially if you're familiar with either of the two above mics.

Thanks!!!

 

[Track Rat]

The 4033 (technicly a medium sized diaphram at 5/8') is great on acoustic guitar. Conventional wisdom would be to use small diaphram on acoustic instruments being that they're a faster mic on transients but I use whatever i think will work in a given song on a given guitar.

 

[Recording Engineer]

Yeah man... Try both. I don't think asking what other people think will do you any good other than give you another subconscious bias before even comparing and contrasting yourself. I recommend trying it first because you already them both! Then compare notes by asking what others have found.

 

[Henri Devill]

Try both at the same time..Its a more full bodied sound..But..If this is going in a dense mix ,I'd use the 12th fret with the briter mic{Rode}so that it would cut thru without as much EQ.. Or for something that would be heard more solo..use the Rode at the 12th fret or so and use the AT at behind the bridge..With the bridge placement you could end up almost to the end pin and a foot out..just gotta try it at see ..listen for phase cancelation.Good luck and have fun



Don