Mic Techniques for Acoustic Guitar

Introduction

• Presented by Justin Colletti of Sonic Scoop
• Sponsored by Jay-Z Microphones
• Focus on mic techniques for both steel string acoustic and classical nylon string guitars
• Covers both single mic and multi-mic stereo techniques

Single Mic Techniques

• Ideal for dense productions where acoustic guitar isn't the centerpiece
• Classic Position: Mic around where neck joins body
  • Distance can vary from a few inches to several feet
  • General starting point: 1-2 feet away
• Adjusting Mic Position:
  • Closer to fingerboard: More brightness and clarity
  • Closer to bridge: More mid-range, "dark and woody" tone
• Danger Zone: Avoid pointing directly at sound hole to prevent excessive bass

Stereo Mic Techniques

Coincident Pair

• XY Technique:
  • Mics form 90-degree angle
  • Solid center, narrow stereo spread, great mono compatibility
  • Variations:
    • One mic points to fingerboard, another to bridge
    • One mic for bass strings, another for treble strings

ORTF Technique

• Mics spaced about 7 inches apart, angled 110 degrees
• Wider stereo spread than XY, good mono compatibility

Blumlein Pair

• Uses bi-directional mics for greater sense of space
• Best for solo performances in great sounding rooms

Mid-Side (M/S)

• Less common for guitar
• One mic faces source, other is bi-directional

Spaced Pair Techniques

• Spaced Pair:
  • One mic towards bridge, another towards fingerboard
  • Provides big stereo spread
  • Less mono compatibility
• Over-the-Shoulder Variation:
  • Mic over strumming hand, another at neck-body join
  • Measure for phase coherence to improve mono compatibility

Listening Comparisons

• Demonstrations with David William Ross playing
• Encouraged to listen on quality speakers or headphones for clear differences
• Single mic recordings with added distant mic for fun

Conclusion

• Importance of choosing the right mic technique for the specific context
• Encouragement to experiment with various mic placements
• Acknowledgement of Jay-Z Microphones for providing equipment
• Upcoming content teasers on drum miking and vintage mic series

Final Thoughts

• What works best varies with guitar, player, room, and production needs
• Each technique has its pros and cons based on the desired sound and context

Note: For best results, try different mic placements and techniques according to the specific acoustic environment and production requirements. Each change will provide a unique character and tone to the acoustic guitar recordings.