Positioning the mic
Let’s start with positioning the mic. Most dynamic microphones can provide you with the outcome that you are looking for. However, the sound can change dramatically even when you move the microphone by as little as an inch. It’s common for engineers to begin halfway between the centre and the edge of the speaker cone, pointing the capsule right at the speaker. The closer you move the mic to the speaker, the more the bass frequencies will increase. When you move the mic sideways, the midrange and upper-mid frequencies will be reduced, so we suggest you play around a bit first. Try a few different placements until you get the optimum sound you want to achieve. Of course, this will be different depending on the genre of music you’re intending to play. Whether it’s thrash metal or a gentle lilting ballad, you may want to try a few different options before settling on what will be best for the live performance.
Boost midrange and bass
For the sound purists out there, you can increase midrange frequencies by placing the mic towards the speaker’s centre, which will also deliver a brighter sound. When you move the mic towards the outer edge, brightness will reduce, and bass will increase. You can also carefully fine-tune the sound by angling the microphone at a 45-degree angle. The reason dynamic microphones are used so often in the live music industry is that they can handle the speaker’s sound pressure levels and can provide the warmth audiences are seeking so do a bit of homework on dynamic microphones and see what works for you in terms of quality and, of course, your budget.
Overcoming visibility problems
A common issue is pinpointing exactly where the speaker is. It may sound stupid but with the grille cloth that is used these days, it’s not always a simple task. If you need help with identifying just where the speaker is, just use a torch or another light source – ideally not an open flame – let’s be sensible here! This will make the speaker more visible through the grille cloth. You can also press lightly on the grille cloth to find where the speaker is. It also makes sense to place yourself right in front of the cabinet, so you can hear the sound the same way your mic will, obviously taking care if using a particularly loud amp. Remember, the sound becomes duller the closer to the edge the mic is placed, with brightness levels rising as you move to the centre.
The WT-PRO II and S-Series
Need more help? At AmpClamp, we have years of experience when it comes to supplying resources for live performances across the UK and beyond. The AmpClamp WT-PRO II is used by sound engineers worldwide and offers the consistent, professional mic placement you are looking for. The product also comes with the robust WT-Pro Mount Plate. The S-Series model is a self-contained bottom mount clamp designed to keep your mic tightly in place. The S-Series clamp can also be installed in mere seconds and is ideal for live performances and home studio recording or rehearsals
Contact us today for more information
To find out more about the AmpClamp mic mounting systems, get in touch today by calling 01507 640100 or completing the contact form on our website. We’d be delighted to assist you if you do need help selecting the right products for your needs and we can also be found on various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, so why not connect with us on there as well? It would be great to have you on board.
