How to Record
a Piano
To record the piano most engineers use a large
condenser mic like, you guessed it a Neumann U87 or
AKG 414. Pianos are usually
recorded in stereo to capture the full rich sound but can be recorded with a
single mic in a pinch. If you use two mics use the same model mic if possible to
help to blend the sound. One of the simplest and most common setups is to place
one mic 6 inches over the bass register strings and another at the upper
register strings at an equal height. If the attack is too strong try raising the
mics to give a more full rich sound.
As always use your ears as usual to get the exact right
sound before you record. If the song is recorded mostly in the center of the
piano then you may want to move the mics a little closer together but don't get
them too close because of phase problems. When in doubt remember the three to
one rule of three times the distance between microphones as from the source of
the sound so if they are 10 inches above the keys then they should be at least
30 inches apart. Remember to leave a little head room in your preamp setting to
make sure the signal does not get overloaded on louder parts.
Recording a keyboard or synthesizer is easier then recording a piano. Just
plug it into your midi or instrument line input and make sure you don't let the
signal overload. Add a little compression if you like
especially for bass lines
but other than that it is pretty strait forward. If you are getting an overly
sterile sound try bussing the signal out to a set of stereo speakers or amps and
mic them up a few feet back with large diaphragm condensers to add a little room
ambience to the sound. Also if the keyboard has speakers you can mic them up
also to the same effect. Another trick is to use a tube amp or guitar amp to add
a bit of warmth to the sound. Experimentation here will usually pay off allowing
for the creation of some pretty unique sounds.
Tips and Tricks - Already set up and
you just need tips
and tricks to make your recording sound better.
Click here.
Drums - If you need
help or tips on recording acoustic drums then this is
the place to check out.
Electric
Guitars - If you want help
recording a electric guitar then check out
this page.
Acoustic Guitars - If you want help recording
an acoustic guitar then check out
this page.
Bass - Need help capturing that
electric bass we offer a few options for you
here.
Vocals -
Vocals can make or break a project. Get some nice
tips
for recording vocals here.
Other Instruments - Want to add
that saxophone, cello, or flute to a project. Get the
facts here.
Mixing - Need help
mixing those tracks to get the right sound from your
mix. We can help here.
Equalization or Eq - Do you have a basic overall level and the tracks panned where
you want them. Then check out our tips on
Equalization or Eq.
Adding Audio effects - If you have the levels where you want them and have
added Eq its time to add some plug-ins or effects like reverb, delay, chorus,
flanger, and other effects to help that
final mix
shine.
Mastering - Need help
mastering your songs. Get the low down
here.
Other Items of Interest
- Also while your
here feel free to check out our record label
Silver Dragon
Records and see what we can offer your band in terms of recording and other
services. Also check out
Lazarus X
Houston's hottest local band and their new
CD release
Weapon of Love or
download a free mp3 for a limited time.
