I'm going to be recording a classical chamber group (6 players) this weekend and was wondering what distance the mics should be from the group? I know there are no hard and fast rules, but what's a general guidline? They will be on a small raised stage, and I will be doing a stereo recording.
Thanks for the advice.
Recording a chamber group
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sdemott
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the majority of my work is classical & trad. jazz recording...so this is right up my alley.
A lot depends on the room acoustics, the mic technique and the mics you use.
I am a huge fan of the ORTF array* with in-line flanked omnis. I would start about 6-9 feet in front of the group and about start about 7 feet above their floor level on the height. Though, i could see this being a good occasion for 2 or 3 omnis (in-line across the front of the group). But use omnis only if the room sounds good (e.g. you're not in a gym).
Moving the mics forward/backwards will adjust the mix between direct & room sound. Moving the mics up/down will adjust the overall balance of the group. Keep in mind that stringed instruments radiate up & out...pretty close to a 35 degree angle from the soundboard.
Bring a couple neutral spot mics - you may need one for the 'cello and/or any weak instrument (like harpsichord, if this is a "period" group). I try avoid the use of spots whenever possible because it &*%^s with the perception of the soundstage...but sometimes it's a necessary evil.
* well to be honest it's my variation of the ORTF setup: 2 mics about 20 cm (8 inches) apart and then angled about 45 degrees...but I will alter the angle to aim just inside the outer edges of the group.
HTH
A lot depends on the room acoustics, the mic technique and the mics you use.
I am a huge fan of the ORTF array* with in-line flanked omnis. I would start about 6-9 feet in front of the group and about start about 7 feet above their floor level on the height. Though, i could see this being a good occasion for 2 or 3 omnis (in-line across the front of the group). But use omnis only if the room sounds good (e.g. you're not in a gym).
Moving the mics forward/backwards will adjust the mix between direct & room sound. Moving the mics up/down will adjust the overall balance of the group. Keep in mind that stringed instruments radiate up & out...pretty close to a 35 degree angle from the soundboard.
Bring a couple neutral spot mics - you may need one for the 'cello and/or any weak instrument (like harpsichord, if this is a "period" group). I try avoid the use of spots whenever possible because it &*%^s with the perception of the soundstage...but sometimes it's a necessary evil.
* well to be honest it's my variation of the ORTF setup: 2 mics about 20 cm (8 inches) apart and then angled about 45 degrees...but I will alter the angle to aim just inside the outer edges of the group.
HTH
-Steve
Not all who wander are lost.
Not all who wander are lost.