MIC'ING A GUITAR CAB
FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE:
When it comes to live performance, getting a great guitar tone is essential. And one of the most important factors in achieving that tone is properly miking up your guitar amp. Whether you're playing in a small club or on a big stage, getting the right sound from your guitar amp can make all the difference in your performance. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best practices for mic'ing up a guitar amp on stage, and how to get the best tone possible.
Step 1: Choose the Right Mic
The first step in mic'ing up a guitar amp on stage is selecting the right microphone for the job. There are a few different types of microphones commonly used for live performance, each with their own unique sound characteristics. Here are a few to consider:
Dynamic Mics: These mics are great for live performance, as they can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion. The industry standard for guitar amp mics is the Shure SM57, which is known for its bright and punchy sound.
Condenser Mics: These mics are more sensitive than dynamic mics, and can capture more detail and nuance in the sound of your guitar amp. While they may not be as rugged as dynamic mics, they can be a great choice for more nuanced and complex performances. A popular choice for live performance is the Audio-Technica AT4053b.
Ribbon Mics: These mics are known for their smooth and warm sound, and are often used to capture the classic "vintage" tone of guitar amps. While they may not be as commonly used as dynamic or condenser mics, they can be a great choice for achieving a specific tone or sound.
Ultimately, the choice of mic will come down to personal preference and the sound you're trying to achieve. Be sure to choose a mic that can handle high sound pressure levels without distortion, as guitar amps can get quite loud on stage.
Step 2: Position the Mic
Once you've selected your mic, the next step is to position it properly in front of your guitar amp. The placement of the mic can have a significant impact on the tone and sound of your performance, so it's important to take the time to get it right. Here are a few tips for mic placement:
Position the mic off-center: Placing the mic off-center of the speaker cone can yield a more interesting and complex tone. Experiment with different positions to find the sweet spot for your particular amp and mic.
Angle the mic: Rotating the mic slightly can help capture different parts of the guitar sound, and can help reduce unwanted frequencies or harshness. Experiment with different angles to find the right balance between brightness and warmth.
Move the mic closer or farther away: Moving the mic closer to the amp will result in a more "direct" and full-bodied tone, while moving it farther away can yield a more ambient and spacious sound. Experiment with different distances to find the right balance for your performance.
Step 3: Check for Feedback
One of the biggest challenges when mic'ing up a guitar amp on stage is feedback. Feedback occurs when the sound from the amp is picked up by the mic and amplified through the PA system, creating a loop of sound that can quickly spiral out of control. To prevent feedback, it's important to take a few precautions:
Use a feedback suppressor: A feedback suppressor is a device that can detect and eliminate feedback in real time. This can be a great tool for preventing feedback in live performance situations.
Position the amp and mic properly: Make sure the amp and mic are positioned in a way that minimizes the chance of feedback. This may require some trial and error, but it's worth taking the time to get it right.
Use a noise gate: A noise gate is a device that can automatically mute the signal when it falls below a certain threshold. This can be a great tool for eliminating unwanted noise and preventing feedback.
Step 4: Monitor Your Tone
Finally, it's important to monitor your tone throughout your performance to ensure that everything sounds great. Here are a few tips for monitoring your tone:
Use in-ear monitors: In-ear monitors can provide a more accurate and consistent representation of your tone, as they eliminate variables like room acoustics and speaker placement.
Listen to recordings of your performances: Recording your performances and listening back can be a great way to evaluate your tone and make adjustments as needed.
Work with your sound engineer: Your sound engineer can provide valuable feedback and advice on how to improve your tone. Be sure to communicate with them throughout your performance to ensure that everything sounds great.
Conclusion
Mic'ing up a guitar amp on stage is both an art and a science, and takes practice and experimentation to get right. By choosing the right mic, positioning it properly, checking for feedback, and monitoring your tone throughout your performance, you can achieve a great sound that will take your live performances to the next level. Remember to trust your ears and be willing to make adjustments as needed to get the perfect tone for your performance.
