Tone Report Weekly Issue 98 | Page 47

These are only a few suggestions for interfaces, and there are many more to be found at almost any price point. Remember to do your research before you buy, and if you are able to try one out, do so. Try running a tube preamp before your main interface to add some tube warmth and dynamics to your tone. Options like the Universal Audio Solo 610 on the more expensive side, or the more affordable ART PRO MPA II, will do a very good job of this. MICROPHONES: THE SOUL OF THE SOUND Everyone has heard or seen the tried-and-true method both on stage and in the studio: Stick a mic up against the grille cloth and fire away. While there is a reason this method is still widely used, micing guitar cabinets is an art just as much as it is a science. For now however, we will only stick to discussing three types of microphones commonly used in studios for guitar cabinets. Micing technique, frequency response, and all the good and nerdy will be in the next part of this feature, so stay tuned. SHURE SM57 - $100 The industry standard of instrument mics, especially for guitar cabinets. Every studio and stage in the world will have a few of these in its locker at all times to tackle everything from snare drums to slide whistles. They are extremely popular on guitar cabinets, because of their detailed midrange response. If you are only going to get one mic for recording guitar, this is the one. It can also record acoustic guitar, vocals, and just about anything else you throw at it, yielding good results. ToneReport.com 47