Techniques of Vocal Recording with different Recording Microphones

The human tone of voice is the most multifaceted and flexible instrument of all, gifted with an extremely broad range of expression, tone and volume. There's also a great arrangement of variety from one voice to the next, which mandates a flexible, try-anything approach to vocal recording. Your first-choice recording microphones may sound wonderful on a strong baritone.

Most people's favorite vocal recording microphones are large-diaphragm condensers that have a tendency to capture a large, articulate vocal sound suitable for most types of music. But some small- and mid-sized diaphragms can accomplish a similar vocal quality. And dynamic Recording Microphones, though not usually a favorite for studio vocals, can convey the perfect sound for some voices. Because Recording Microphones selection makes such a distinction on vocals, it's not rare for people's to record the same vocalist with different recording microphones depending on the song and vocal delivery. The big, breathy sound of a large-diaphragm condenser may be perfect for a ballad, while the smaller, more focused sound of a vocal dynamic may better cut through a dense, up-tempo arrangement. When it comes time to choose a recording microphones for a given vocalist or song, try every recording microphones you've got; you may be surprised at which one sounds finest. While directional microphones are most common for recording vocals, an Omnidirectional microphone can be very effective as well. An Omni will exhibit no proximity effect, allowing you to place the recording microphones much closer without bass buildup. An Omni is also less flat to create popping noises, eliminating the need for a pop filter. The lack of proximity effect will also make for a more consistent sound if the vocalist changes distance from the recording microphones. There will be a corresponding drop in level, but no significant change in tone. On recording microphones with variable patterns, you can get good results from the intermediate patterns between cardioid and omni. A good starting recording microphones position for vocals is directly on-axis with the mouth, 6 to 12 inches away. You may find a softer sound by placing the recording microphones a few inches to either side of the mouth. Placement above or below the mouth can result in diverse vocal characters, which may be advantageous for certain voices. One popular off-axis recording microphones placement is roughly 12 inches from the singer, at about forehead level, pointing down towards the mouth. Off-axis placement also has the benefit of reducing sibilance and popping.

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