FIND YOUR VOICE: MIC SELECTION, TIPS & TECHNIQUES
GET DYNAMIC: If you're a heavy metal growler or into rapid-fire rap, the SM7B could quickly become your secret weapon. Other DYNAMIC mics like the classic SM58 or its supercardioid cousin the Beta 58A are also great for loud singers.
UN-CONDENSED QUALITY: For R&B, pop or folk featuring more delicate vocals, you'll probably want to try a CONDENSER microphones, such as the PGA27, BETA 87A or KSM42. They will capture all the airy, sparkly magic.
No matter what mic or mic stand you’re using, your mic should be pointing between your nose and mouth.
Fix a pop shield between you and your mic (make your own with a pair of tights if don’t have one).
Your mouth should be about 6-12 inches from the mic.
The closer you get, the more bass it will pick up.
If you get too close, you’ll start to lose clarity.
Lots of popping and air sounds? Try singing off axis (i.e., not right into the mic, but 10-20 degrees to one side).
PRO TIP: Put a mattress, cushions or other sound proofing material directly behind the mic so you’re looking at it while you’re singing. This will stop reflections coming back at you, making your voice sound warmer.
Circuit des Yeux – or Haley Fohr to her friends – is known for her amazing four-octave range and rich vocal arrangements. She’s also got some great recording tips.
“Different microphones are like different paintbrushes on a canvas, and you’ve got to know which ones to use for each situation,” she says. “For example, I’ll use a large condenser mic for my lead vocals. But then I’ll use a dynamic mic for my backing vocals, like an SM57. That stops everything from getting too muddy.”
She also adapts her mic positioning based on the parts she’s performing. “I have a large voice, so for the main vocals I sing further away than normal – sometimes as much as 18 inches. I also sing 45 degrees off axis. But for backing vocals, I’m singing at a higher and softer, so for those I’ll use a more regular setup.”
LISTEN TO THE FULL CIRCUIT DES YEUX SIGNAL PATH EPISODE
This episode was recorded with an SM7B and Haley's trusty SM57. Find more Signal Path interviews with the people shaping the world of audio here.
