What type of microphone and polar pattern would be best if recording a string quartet with a single mic?

Cardioid
Wide Cardioid A mix between omni and cardioid with all their characteristics. This polar pattern is ideal for recording a group of instruments, like a string quartet, for example. It is also suitable for natural-sounding vocal recordings that need little proximity effect.

How do you record an ensemble?

– Use two condenser microphones on a bar on one stand, or you can use two stands and place them about 4 feet apart. – For a small ensemble, like a string quartet or wind quintet, you can place the microphones about 5 feet in front of the musicians on a mic stand about 4 feet high.

How do you mic a live performance violin?

Most experienced violinists would recommend placing the microphone to a position that you are comfortable with that will not cause any hindrance to the performance while getting the best possible sound. Putting it on top of the chin-rest just above the bow/string area is a good option.

What is XY mic placement?

X-Y. The X-Y technique consists of two identical cardioid microphones, placed on top of each other while facing away from each other at a 90 degree angle.

What are the three basic polar patterns?

Before we get into some specific benefits for the stage and studio, let’s review the basic polar (or pickup) patterns. There are three basic types: omnidirectional, unidirectional and bidirectional (also called figure-of-eight).

How do you make VSTs sound realistic?

1. 5 Tips to make your VST’s sound real. VSTs often require extra work to sound convincing and human in nature.
2. 5 Tips to make your VST’s sound real.
3. BIG PICTURE.
4. DON’T HARD QUANTIZE.
5. VARY VELOCITY.
6. ADD SENSE OF SPACE.

What happens when you MIC a violin or viola?

Setting up your microphone for orchestral string instruments — whether that’s a violin, viola, or cello — can be a balancing act. If you get too close to the instrument, it can sound boxy and shrill. If you’re too far away, you may hear an unappealing room tone more than the instrument.

When do you record a string section for sound on sound?

The schedule called for the orchestra to be in place by 10.30am and recording by 11.30am, with a wrap at about 5pm, so it made sense to have the control room and mic cabling installed and running before 10.00am, hence the early start — I live over two hours away from Cambridge!

What’s the best way to record a string player?

If you’re doing a home studio recording or working in a small recording space, close mic’ing with one or two mics is your best bet. Tiny rooms (like closets) and small recording booths aren’t ideal for string players.

Can You Fake the sound of a strings section?

The other challenge is to make each of the multi-track sound a little different. In an orchestra you have maybe 20 different players, playing 20 different violins which all sound very different.