Stereo recording?

[Glenn Cimera]

Welcome back!
I just got a Fostex VF80 w/ CD burner and want to record my acoustic solo guitar....Heard good things about Studio Projects B1 mics. In order to make a stereo recording, can I just get two of these, or do they need to be "matched"? Any suggestions for mics (around $400 for two) other then the B1?
I'm just learning about this recording stuff, so I appreciate the help.
Thanks!

 

[Bartman]

Studio Projects C4's

Check out the Studio Projects C4's. They are small diaphragm condensers. I like the way they sound on acoustic guitars and they are within your budget.

 

[Innovations]

If you are getting a mic with close quality control you may be able to record stereo without needing a stereo pair.

The concern about matched pair is that if, for example, one mic is a little more sensitive than the other at 1000 hz then when that note is played the instrument will seem to jump a little to the side.

But the main reason you would use more than one mic on a guitar is to be sure to be getting the sound of the whole instrument, both the neck and the body, rather than having very different left and right tracks coming out of the speakers

 

[scrubs]

Welcome back!
I just got a Fostex VF80 w/ CD burner and want to record my acoustic solo guitar....Heard good things about Studio Projects B1 mics. In order to make a stereo recording, can I just get two of these, or do they need to be "matched"? Any suggestions for mics (around $400 for two) other then the B1?
I'm just learning about this recording stuff, so I appreciate the help.
Thanks!

The big mic thread "How does diaphragm size relate to polar pattern..." at the top of the forum will provide you with a wealth of information if you haven't read it yet. Brew some coffee, sit back and enjoy.

For true "stereo" recording, you will want a matched pair of mics, usually small diaphragm condensors. In your pricerange, you have a few options. On the less expensive end, a matched pair of MXL 603s ($200) or Oktava MC/MK 012s will perform nicely. Studio Projects C4 is probably similar. I purchased the 603s based on recommendations from this board, and am quite happy. The next step up, in my mind would be something like the Shure SM81, which run about $350 each.

You can get great results with large diaphragms, like the B1, as well, but it is just different. I really like the sound of two LDCs as a spaced-pair for recording acoustic that will be the main instrument in a simple arrangement. It just sounds so spacious.

So, depending on the type of music you are making, either SDCs or LDCs may work. Happy recording.

 

[Glenn Cimera]

Fingerstyle acoustic...

I will be recording fingerstyle (Martin OM28V)....relatively sparse, open-tuning solos. Not sure if that changes what would be recommended.
Thanks for the replies!

 

[Richard Monroe]

I second the suggestion of the C-4's. IMHO, they are better mics for stereo recording than the Oktavas or the MXL603's, even if you don't consider the omni capsules. I like the Oktavas a lot for drum overheads, but even with a pair of Neumann KM184's in house, mu C-4's will be staying.-Richie

 

[gbacklin]

I have the C4's and love them. Here is a recent recording of a friend of mine in a live performance using the C4's.

Take Care,
Gene