What are good mics for recording a chorus?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Chuck Bevitt
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Chuck Bevitt

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I'm just getting into sound recording - I've bought a setup for recording quartets (4 part harmony, aka Barbershop). For this, I've bought SM58 mics. However, later I'm going to want to record an entire (40 - 50 person) chorus.

I'd appreciate recommendations on what mics to use for this. Also how many to use and what a good mic location setup might be.

Thanks all.
 
I don't know too much about mics, but I think looking into some SDCs would be a good starting point. I've always heard SDCs are better over LDCs for recording loud/big sound sources (such as a 40-50 person chorus) since the smaller diaphragm can react faster to the loud noise.
 
During barbershop competitions they are very particular about what is used for micing.
They suggest SDC in a X/Y configuration.
You can find the whole rules etc. on the net.

I do some live sound support and recording for competitions regional and nationals and I've had the best results using Earthworks SR69s and during the holidays I use the same set up for huge choruses with sterling results.
 
moresound said:
They suggest SDC in a X/Y configuration.
Click to expand...
^^^This^^^
I use an pair of Oktava SDC's as a stereo pair mounted high of center over the chorus or acoustic group for best effects. It is best if it is in a room that already has good acoustics.
 
I agree that a pair of SDC should do the job - I've actually had very good results with LDC mics - both a pair of Shure KSM32 and on a dirrect occasion a pair of AT4033
 
I essentially agree with the above. I favor a pair of small diaphragm mics, hopefully matched. When I'm willing to risk expensive mics, I use a pair of Neumann KM184's. When I'm not, I use AKG C2000B's or Studio Projects C-4's. Do a search on the following stereo mic'ing techniques: coincedent (AKA X-Y), ORTF, NOS, spaced stereo, Jecklin Disc, MS (short for mid-side). I've had my best results with NOS, and I record a lot of choral work, Madrigals, and string ensembles. Good luck-Richie
 
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