Help with instrument recording

[Goldie]

Hi there, I have the MZ-NH700 HI-MD minidisc recorder, but the microphone I have right now is not producing the quality recordings I would like, and is picking up too much background noise, even with the mic sensitivity set on 'low'. My objective is to record individual musical instrument 'one-shot' samples for using with my Akai MPC 1000, so they have to be captured well without picking up annoying background ambience. The mic I currently have is a binaural, but I am using it as a makeshift stereo mic by tying them close together.

Here is a link to the mic I currently use:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Binaural-Microphone-...Q2em118Q2el1247

This mic is okay, but the PCM recordings sound rather 'metallic' and do not do the live sound justice. Now I'm aware that the old case of 'you get what you pay for' is especially relevant to microphones, but I'm hoping one of you experienced folk can help me achieve what I need to achieve on a relatively cheap budget, say under £150. I just need a quality mic to record instuments in close proximity, which won't pick up background noise. Thanks for any advice guys.

Chris

[Strungup]

Audio Technica AT-822

I use this mic almost exclusively with my RH1 as well as any other MD , But it is VERY sensitive , and very WIDE spectrum ,

I also use a ECM 959a from SONY , that is older and less sensitive , but doesnt sound as good .

What you might want to do is use a Mackie 402VLZ3 mixer and two Cardioid mics which will have a Smaller pickup pattern and thereby reduce Background noise.

Omni directional Mics pickup a larger area

Cardioid mics Pickup a Smaller area .

The AT822 is a Pair of Semi Cardioids that depending on Gain change their character quite nicely . I record my Acoustic , or Live sessions , and also use in the Studio with the AT 822

[Goldie]

I will look into the AT-822, I know its sensitive and got a wide spectrum but if its a clean high quality recording (not metallic sounding), I would accept picking up background noise. I will also look into your idea of using two low sensitive mics and a Mackie, good idea that mate. BTW I'm fairly new to recording with mindisc, why is it that my friend's Shure SM57 (with female jack end) won't work with my minidisc? Thanks in advance.

Chris

Edited May 29, 2008 by Goldie

[Strungup]

I will look into the AT-822, I know its sensitive and got a wide spectrum but if its a clean high quality recording (not metallic sounding), I would accept picking up background noise. I will also look into your idea of using two low sensitive mics and a Mackie, good idea that mate. BTW I'm fairly new to recording with mindisc, why is it that my friend's Shure SM57 (with female jack end) won't work with my minidisc? Thanks in advance.

Chris

Well the SM57 , is a Balanced mic ( - + and ground ) pins 1,2,3 , ......... so in order for it to work correctly a Special cable has to be made

TRS = Tip- Ring- Sleeve ..... the Tip gets the Positive signal , the Ring also goes to the Positive signal , and Pin 1 and 3 of the XLR cable go to ground or the Sleeve of the TRS plug.

Then the SM57 will work , but will be Mono .and will not have the Gain your looking for .

here at this site are some samples , the first is the 822 , and you will immediately hear how quiet it is compared to the Sennheiser mics that were tested ( Go figure , Nicer mics sounding worse !!!!)

http://freesound.iua.upf.edu/packsViewSingle.php?id=3135

[Goldie]

Crikey, the AT-822 blows them away, I see why you hold that mic in such high regard! It is a little over what I am looking to spend but I'm very tempted to break the bank as it is evidently a bargain for that kind of quality. I'd rather pay a bit more if it means having nice, clear recordings than stay with what I have now. Currently it's a very tight call between the AT-822 and Sennheiser ME66. Thanks for clearing that up about the SM57.

Chris

Edited May 29, 2008 by Goldie

[Strungup]

Fullcompass is an online retailer for Pro gear , and good prices , I would go with the 822 over the 66 , just because it is better balanced Impedance wise for DAT and MD .

the 66 might be a little tight sounding and I think you will get more noise than you want .

I have used a LOT of mics in my time , the 822 has become my mainstay

I have an ECM M5S Sony that I am building a Box for right now , I would sell it if the offer tickled my interest

Edited May 29, 2008 by Guitarfxr

[Goldie]

Thanks for the proposal of selling the ECM M5S but I have put my faith in your mic expertise and gone for the mighty AT-822, it should do the trick just fine. Thanks for your help man

Chris