tom micing problem, cant kill buzz

[perforateme]

I can't get the buzz to come out of my toms! Ive been using an SM57 angled in about every direction possible and im still getting a buzz, like its clipping, but its not! any have any suggestions? maybe my new Sennheiser e609 will do the trick once it comes? thanks

 

[Markd102]

Unless your 57's have problems I'd doubt it's the mics. I've used 57's on toms for some very hard hitting drummers with no clipping problems.

How are you mounting the mics? I'm wondering if you are getting stand rattle?
Can you hear any vibrations when you sit and play the kit?

 

[Lance135]

That's my suspicion, too. It's usually something on the kit or the drum itself rattling.

 

[perforateme]

I used 2 clip ons to mic the middle toms. i heard vibration just playing.. So i tried putting a blanket over the bass drum around the middle tom "stands?"(not a drummer) and that seemed to clear it up a bit but still cant see why i got it in the first place. 57's worked fine before and after so its not them...thanks anyways.

 

[Markd102]

Yep, as I suspected.
Clip-on mics are not ideal for recording purposes. They transfer every little vibration into the mic.
Always use mic stands where possible.
And always check the kit acoustically for vibrations and get rid of any. The mics will pick them up and spoil your recording.

 

[Bobalou]

clip ons are famous for making noise when critical recording. they're great live due to lack of floor space for stands, but any vibration is going to be enhanced by using clip on mics when recording.

I likr using the moongel damper pads (sometimes cut in half) just too take the excess ring out of the toms, they're like 3 bucks at GC. but to me it indeed sounds like the clip ons are your coulprits more than anything else.

 

[Js2music]

I've had similar problems and one possiblity could be that the plastic head on the 57 has loosened and is vibrating. Sometimes turning it will fix the problem, or a small piece of tape. But be carefull with the tape, you can dampen the sound of the mic. Also, try pushing in on the center of the top drum head (like CPR), That might clean up any head buzz.