what should i do?

  • Thread starter Thread starter rickm4
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rickm4

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I've seen this question tossed around a few times here....

I have the sm57 which i've been using to record my acoustic guitar, problem is i have to crank the gain all the way and then of course i get that hissing noise. My question is would i be better off getting a preamp or a new mic?

I'm sending the sm57 to a fostex mr-8, needless to say the preamps suck. I'm also on a tight budget, so if anybody could name some preamps or microphones along with the prices thatd be great.


-rick
 
Sure sounds like a mic problem. SM-57 and SM-58 should have similar gain. I use SM-58 with MR8 without any issues. I also have a SM-57.

Have you tried the SM-57 in other areas to see if it is working correctly?

Ed
 
The Studio Projects VTB-1 preamp seems to work pretty well with my Zoom MRS-4. The Zoom preamps get pretty noisy when recording quiter sources, like acoustic guitars or even some vocals.

I just tried the SM-57 (just go the mic) works great with the VTB-1 for recording accoustic/electric guitar. The sound is a little fuller/rich than with slightly more noise than direct input.

The Studio Projects B1 condenser mic is another mic that you might want to consider. It cost about $70 and the VTB-1 preamp is about $130
 
Hmmm.... SM57's are pretty much the definition of reliable mics. I'd be surprised if you have a defective mic, though it is certainly possible. If in doubt about that, get to a music store that will let you plug it in and see.

I've never been fond of the 57 alone going into a low quality pre- even the built in pres on a Tascam 428. I either have to get the guitar so close to the 57 that I get a cramped sound, or I have to crank the crappy pre so high that I get the noise you are talking about.

The 57 usually works just fine for vocals and amplified instruments regardless of pre, but that mic will really sing with a decent one. Further, any better mic you might buy will still be limited by the pres on your mr-8. I'd vote for starting with a better pre- though it won't solve all your micing woes: the 57 isn't a common go-to mic for acoustic guitar.

I haven't been in the market for a pre for a while so I have no idea what is current. The topic is often discussed though, and a search for "preamp" or the like will probably turn up a lot of good stuff.

Take care,
Chris
 
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