Recording vocals

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Recording vocals

To record vocals, a directional mic mounted on a stand is the usual method and the singer will most likely be standing up. If you have a wobbly wooden floor, isolate the stand from the floor to prevent low frequency rumble travelling up the mic stand and onto your recordings. If you can afford it, a condenser mic is best AKG C-414, AKG C-3000 or the Audio Technica are good but a dynamic mic such as the trusty Shure SM57 or SM58 will still produce good results.

Although most vocal mics have built-in wind shields , it is still a good idea to use a pop screen. There are several types on the market these days. The DIY alternative, a pair of panty hose stretched over a bent wire coat hanger does the same job. Apart from preventing sudden pops, if you are recording a vocalist other than yourself, it will also prevent them from getting too close to the microphone.

A distance of between 15 and 60 cm between the mouth and microphone is usual, depending on the strength and character of the vocalist, with the mic tilted slightly, either up or down, away from a direct line with the mouth. A greater distance is fine but bear in mind that more gain may be needed and if the vocalist has a quiet voice, problems with noise could arise. Keep the mic away from reflective surfaces, walls being an obvious example.

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