Tips for recording screaming singer (live).

[countrylac]

I'm trying to record a musical for a church choir, but the lead singer tends to scream or sing hard when he sings. Any one who has recorded gospel or some rock bands may know what I mean. Does any one have any tips to keep the vocals from sound so harsh?

 

[AGCurry]

We need more information. How are you recording this singer?

 

[countrylac]

Not Sure Yet

I've tried several methods. One method is I've tried using a digital 8-track or a cassette 4-track. The lead vocal is coming from the P.A. system then into a Mackie Mixer and then into a track machine. I've gotten the best result on the 4-track so far. I was wondering if maybe I should put a compressor on the P.A. system mixer.

 

[countrylac]

Oh Yea and the mic is a wireless sm58.

 

[boingoman]

I've tried several methods. One method is I've tried using a digital 8-track or a cassette 4-track. The lead vocal is coming from the P.A. system then into a Mackie Mixer and then into a track machine. I've gotten the best result on the 4-track so far. I was wondering if maybe I should put a compressor on the P.A. system mixer.

Couple things: How is the signal getting from the system mixer to the Mackie? I mean, from what outputs on the system mixer?

SM-58s have a big presence peak centered around 3K. A broad gentle EQ cut in that area may help, especially if this guy's voice is particularly nasty in that range.

With a wireless mic, gain structure is crucial. Make sure the receiver isn't clipping. A lot of newer wireless have some built in limiting, which will keep the harshest distortion down so you may not hear it, but the vocal will sound more strident and biting.

Compression helps with keeping a consistent level, not with tonal issues, but a more even level can keep harsh sounds from jumping out at you. Good mic technique can help a lot as well.

 

[giraffe]

Good mic technique can help a lot as well.

yea, deffinately.
is he backing off when he really hits it??

 

[countrylac]

The mic signal is coming from the main outs, but I have also have tried bringing in the signal from the insert point on the channel. Thanks for the info I'l try cutting the eq range around 3k.

 

[AGCurry]

My guess is that it's poor mic technique on the singer's part (only a guess!).

These guys that get real excited, causing them to sing harshly, often tend to want to "swallow" the mic. If that's the case, there's nothing you're gonna do to fix it short of telling him to back off.

I used to be one of those guys.

 

[Chris Shaeffer]

Another vote for mic technique- and slap a compresser in the insert for his mic channel. Or a limiter. You'll have to be careful how you set it or it sound weird when he gets loud, but if he doesn't figure out mic technique then that's your best option.

Take care,
Chris

 

[Codmate]

Get him to improve his mic technique and invest in an RNC yourself.