Microphone Techniques for Stereo Recording
This article covers the most common stereo recording methods and microphone techniques.
How Stereo Works
A stereo image is created by two speakers reproducing sound. The most noticeable aspect of stereo is the balance of sound between each speaker, which creates the effect known as phantom imaging, or the appearance of sound coming from imaginary points between the two monitors. This acoustically pleasing monitoring method has equally interesting stereo recording applications, which, with some practice and experimentation, can add a new dimension to any audio production.
Recording in stereo gives the listener a better sense of:
- The recording space (natural reverberation, echo).
- Relative positioning of each instrument to one another.
- Distance from the audience to the performers.
- What it would be like to be in the room with live performers.
Microphone manufacturers like sE Electronics make a variety of condenser microphones, both large and small diaphragm, ideal for stereo recording techniques. Keep in mind that microphones have many different sound characteristics so your ears will ultimately have to determine which one is right for you.
Microphone Diaphragms
Large diaphragm microphones are ideal for vocal applications, or any application where warmth and enhanced low end is desired.
Small diaphragm microphones are excellent room mics as they are generally voiced to capture the entire sound spectrum evenly. Smaller diaphragms may lack the warmth of their large diaphragm counterparts, but they have a quicker transient response. Therefore, they can capture cymbals, snare drums, strings, and other "fast attack" sounds more accurately.
Recording Techniques
Stereo recording is generally characterized by the use of two microphones and is often divided into two specific categories: the coincident-pair and spaced pair. There is debate within the recording world as to which technique is better but, even after scientific studies, the best judge is still the individual. There are a few major differences between the two. Use the following points to help you make an informed decision about which technique to use for your project. Also keep in mind that, although these two methods are the most well accepted, they are by no means the only way to record in stereo. Try experimenting with different mic placements throughout your recording project to see what you like best.
Stereo recording is generally characterized by the use of two microphones and is often divided into two specific categories... but, even after scientific studies, the best judge is still the individual.
Coincident-Pair Techniques
Coincident-pair benefits:
- Excellent stereo imaging
- No appreciable phase problems
- Tracks are mono-compatible
In a coincident-pair, the diaphragms of two microphones are placed as close together as possible and angled differently in order to capture a stereo image. Coincident-pair is the more accurate of the two techniques mentioned in this article. Since the microphones pick up sound at the same location, there is more phase accuracy than a spaced configuration, though less ambience is recorded. Because the microphones are located on the same plane, imaging is more directional, making it easier to detect phantom images in the stereo field upon playback. Of course, make sure you pan each track appropriately on playback so you hear the stereo image!
X/Y
The most common form of the coincident-pair techniques is the X/Y combination. The angle between the microphone grills can vary from 90 to 120 degrees, facing towards the sound source. Cardioid microphones are the best choice for this setup, as the stereo images will appear more dramatic and focused. Be sure to pan each track to so that you can hear the imaging. The X/Y array always uses two microphones of the same make and model to ensure a consistent stereo image.
Pair of microphones arranged in an X/Y Pattern.
Author
Sonic Distribution
Located just outside Boston, MA, Sonic is the US Distributor for the sE Electronics line of microphones and accessories as well as the new Ghost Acoustics line.