Acoustic Recording

We are trained in the different styles of stereo recording of acoustic music.  Some prefer XY, others like ORTF.  Blumlien is liked by some, while many prefer spaced pair (AB) or a Decca Tree.

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Of course we teach that certain techniques work for some situations (like XY for radio) and other techniques work for others (Decca Tree for CD Recording).

Over the past nine years I have recorded classical music and other accoustic music.  At first I tried each of these techniques.  I would evaluate the effectiveness of each.  At the end of the day I’ve decided that I don’t like any of them and yet I like them all.

Yes, a stereo recording works.  However, combining these techniques provides so much clarity and realism that you just can’t get with just 2 microphones.  I love using 2 ORTF setup on the same stand for string quartets (1 faces forward and 1 to the back).  XY and pick ups for a duo.  It really depends on the hall and the makeup of the group.

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I know that many people just set up a stereo pair and hit record.  However, if you take a little extra time you can really open up your recording and make the realism come alive.