Looking to record piano... help?

thetawave2

I'm trying to figure out the best way for me to record acoustic piano using entry-level equipment. I'm not looking for professional sound, just something better than my computer microphone. I suppose that rules out preamps and analong-to-usb converters and things, so I'm probably looking for a USB microphone. I'm willing to spend 50-100 bucks.
Does anyone have experience with recording live instruments? What do I need to be looking for? Do you know of anywhere (website, stores in Scotland, et c.) where I could conduct some research of my own?

rebuy

I would go to a instrument shop that sells pro audio gear. As far as mics go you have a few options, one of them being PZM mics which are pressure zone mics. If you go the normal mic route, you might have to use at least two mics depending on the type of piano you are wanting to record. It's a big instrument and I do not think one mic will give you the best recording.

Jim Shearer

You might want to consider spending a bit more for both performance and convenience. Check out the Zoom H4n digital recorder. It has decent mics built-in, but can also use outboard mics. Has 4 channel/multi-track recoding capability. Only about $300.

Cheers, Jim

falconcry72

Compressor type mics work well on a number of acoustic instruments, so if you're on a tight budget, you could get multiple uses out of one.

rebuy is right that using multiple mics would sound better, but that doesn't mean you can't get a very nice recording using only one one mic.

Just remember that with a piano, the fewer mics you use, the further away that(or those) mic(s) need to be away from the strings to give you an even recording.

What type of piano is it?

thetawave2

I am considering either placing one microphone farther from the piano or two mics very close (perhaps on small stands just on either side of the music stand). Would it be better to get one mic or two mics if I'm willing to spend around $100-150 total on either option?

I am using a baby grand piano. The one I'm using now at school is in a large room, while the one I have at home is in a small room placed in a corner.

Thanks for the suggestion, Jim, but I don't think that's the route I want to take. I'm looking for very basic (and very inexpensive) equipment. I'm sure that recorder is a great value for $300, and I know I won't be able to get professional sound out of cheaper but I'm really just looking to make a CD for family to enjoy.

thetawave2

Any thoughts on getting two of these?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/IMG-Stageline-DM-500USB-Dynamic-Microphone/dp/B000WWNPUI/ref=sr_1_5?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1316985750&sr=1-5

What about one of these?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Technica-AT2020-Cardioid-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B001AS6OYC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1316985918&sr=8-2

falconcry72

I'm not familiar with brands, so I'm not going to try there.

I will say that at your price point you're probably better off on the used market, and I would think that (1) good mic would sound better than (2) lower quality mics.

Buy (1), the best you can afford, now, and then add another one of those later.

thetawave2

Where should I look for the "used market?" Is there an Audiogon for recording equipment or something?

stuwee

thetawave2 wrote: »

Where should I look for the "used market?" Is there an Audiogon for recording equipment or something?

From your above post it sounds like you're in Scotland? If so, there is probably a music store (like the US version of Guitar Center) in one of the larger cities over there. They might have some used gear, or you could see how much it is to rent some to try first. I'd also look into to guys that play in a local band, buy them some pints and see if you could borrow something from them.

Without using a mixing board, I'd go with a couple uni's. With the lid on the piano up, play with the positions of the mikes. Are you going to use tape anywhere in the chain. I'd look into that for the most realistic sound, you can always transfer to CD later. Get it right on tape first. A friend of mine did a very nice recording on an old upright with a single uni mic on a RtR deck, it sounded very nice. I could ask him more info if you like. Craig

thetawave2

Yes, I'm studying abroad in Scotland for the semester. I was going to make a recording of a few songs as a Christmas present for my parents but I think it might have to wait because of my financial situation and the hassle and worry of transporting them back home as well. Maybe I'll be getting the microphones as a present myself! haha

I did consider looking at a Guitar Center-style store, but I figured that the information and selection available online would be a good place to start, at least in the research phase.

I seriously doubt I'll be using tape. Trying to keep this as simple and as basic as possible. If I really get into recording though I know tape would be the way to go.

Dennis Gardner

Recording piano is the single most difficult recording project anyone can undertake, regardless of equipment. I like placement of a single microphone hovering above the strings in the center of the piano. Height of the microphone, left/right (think bass/treble) adjustments and lid height are all dependent on the piano, playing technique and gear involved. I guess trial and error is the best route. Search on the web and you will just get more confused about the best technique, as there is no single best way to achieve good piano sounds.

Personally, I prefer large diaphragm recording mics such as the Rode NT1, Shure KSM44A, or Peavey M1 as they are multi pattern mics. Of the two mic links you posted, I would look into the Audio Technica.


Just be glad that closed loop recording is your project.....live piano over a PA system is even worse.

[Deleted User]

Good advice, Dennis.
This link could be helpful also:
http://www.wikirecording.org/Guide_to_Recording_Pianos
Cheers, Ken

mrbigbluelight

Dennis Gardner wrote: »

Personally, I prefer large diaphragm recording mics such as the Rode NT1, Shure KSM44A, or Peavey M1 as they are multi pattern mics. Of the two mic links you posted, I would look into the Audio Technica.

Audio Technica AT2020 from B&H for $ 66.29 shipped.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/356521-REG/Audio_Technica_AT2020_AT2020_Condenser_Microphone.html

Looking up some of the LCD mic's that Dennis listed and .... wow ! Nice gear, but couldn't even find a "cheap" version on Cragislist nationwide.

.... it's amazing the info one picks up from this site.