AUDIX I5 - $120
This is the mic that wanted to separate legions of sound guys
and engineers from their trusted SM57s. Whether it did that or
not is up for debate, but there is no debate on the fact that this is
a very solid microphone for recording guitar cabinets. Not only
is it able to handle high SPL (sound pressure level, or loudness),
it has a wide frequency response and a midrange that was
engineered to be used on guitar cabinets. Not-so-surprisingly,
Audix also sells its Cab Grabber with an i5 (in certain package
deals), which is a sort of gooseneck mic holder that attaches to
the side of a cabinet, eliminating the need for a mic stand.
SENNHEISER E609 - $110
Referred to by some as “the other guitar mic,” the e609 has
a devoted following of musicians and engineers who claim
it over the hallowed SM57, and for good reason. While the
SM57’s midrange response is described as “focused,” the
e609’s midrange is described more as “open”. It’s got a wide
frequency response, and is easier to squeeze a good sound
out of, although its detractors claim it can sound hollow or
muddy. The beauty of the e609 is its simplicity of operation,
as you can just let it hang over the speaker by putting the
cable through the top handle of your head or combo.
We have only begun to scratch the surface of recording and running the
home studio. In addition to buying one of these dynamic cardioid mics, you can
consider buying a condenser or ribbon mic, and record your amp in stereo with
two different mic characters. You can blend the two sounds to taste, or use a bit
of one and a bit of the other. The sky is the limit! In part two of this feature, we
will go more in depth to the technical and digital side of things. Until then, happy
hunting and happy recording!
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TONE TALK //
Start a Home Studio Today Part I: The Basics