Capturing the Perfect

Sound on Acoustic Guitar

Greetings, fellow recording enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a focused exploration of mic placement techniques specifically tailored for capturing the exquisite sound of a guitar. Whether it's nylon or steel strings, finding the sweet spot and unleashing its sonic magic requires finesse. So, grab your favorite six-stringed instrument, and let's dive into the art of mic placement for acoustic guitars!

But before we begin recording it helps to keep the most important thing in mind; and that is everything must serve the song.

This means that we should understand the part that the instrument will play in the song arrangement so as to best capture the appropriate sonics. As one can imagine, a guitar that functions to thicken a chorus but remains buried in the mix will function very differently than a solo classical guitar. Also we must be mindful of the player and their particular style, especially if that is on display as an integral part of the song. Finally we must consider the instrument and the room within which it is being recorded to ensure that all things work together in service of the greater vision. 

Start with balance

When positioning a microphone for an acoustic guitar, begin by placing it around 6 to 12 inches away from the sound-hole.

This initial position captures a balanced representation of the guitar's tone. However, keep in mind that this placement might produce excessive low-end and proximity effect. Also note that a player who moves excessively while playing would also likely negatively affect the recording. 

Placing the microphone at the 12th fret

Showcasing Finger-style Brilliance To emphasize the delicate intricacies of fingerstyle playing or arpeggios, try moving the microphone closer to the 12th fret or towards the area where the guitar's neck meets the body. This placement captures the vibrant harmonics and clarity of each note, highlighting the guitar's expressive nuances.

Honing In on the Warmth:If you desire a warmer and more rounded sound, experiment with positioning the microphone closer to the bridge. This placement accentuates the lower frequencies and captures the resonance and body of the guitar, providing a rich and full-bodied tone.

Unleashing the Sparkle: Near the 3rd-5th Fret For a brighter, shimmering sound that highlights the guitar's top end, This placement captures the brilliance of the strings and enhances the attack and transient response, making the guitar sound crisp and lively.

Stereo Techniques

  • Spaced Pair: Position two identical microphones equidistant from the guitar, such as 12 inches apart, to create a wide stereo image.

  • XY Configuration: Utilize two cardioid microphones crossed at a 90-degree angle, placing them near the 12th fret. This method offers a more focused stereo image with precise mono compatibility.

Blending Close and Distant Mics: Balancing Presence and Ambience To strike a balance between the immediacy of a close mic and the natural ambience of the room, consider blending a close microphone (placed near the guitar) with a room microphone positioned further away. Experiment with different levels to achieve the desired blend of direct sound and room reflections.

Remember, however, that as we introduce microphones we also introduce issues of phase coherence and if your acoustic guitar is sitting back in the track a single microphone is likely to do the trick without the need for phase alignment. 

Happy recording, and may your guitar soundscapes be filled with captivating melodies and harmonious bliss!