Recording an actual cab in the studio

[Kevykev388]

Anybody have any experience with recording your bass through by micing an actual bass rig instead of going direct through an interface? Just looking to try something new here, and wondering what the pros and cons may be!!!

[BigFoot_BigThumb]

I've never witnessed it or attempted it, but it can be done.  It's all about choosing the right mic for it along with the right acoustics.  Another alternative to that is the Ampeg SVX plug-in.  It has many amp/head combos along with mic modeling on the cabinets that can either be placed on or off-axis.  It's just like running it through an amp and it gives a great sound.  I use it all the time, and even run keyboard bass through it.

I don't think I answered your question.  All I can say is have at it, and watch your frequencies, levels, distortions, and clipping.  Oh, and you want to compress it to so that room noises are not picked up.

[mjl422]

It's one of those things that you have to play around with (mic positioning, levels..etc).  I know some people like to run a line direct and mic the cab and mix the signals for a fatter sound.  Also, by doing it this way, you can use whichever signal you want (if you don't want to mix them).

I guess I haven't really answered your question either.

[rEaLiTy|cHecK]

i like to mix the signal.. my mic of choice is a shure beta 52 positioned a little off center of one of the cones toward the tweeter. this you can get the bottom end from the line out mix, and the smooth tone + treble from the mic. gives it a great CD quality sound

[BassbyGrace]

Another good tip is if the grill of the cab is removable, take it off.  It can add extra vibrations into the mic.  Recently I went to guitar center and aside from the usual bass player mag, they had a special Studio Sessions issue.  It tells you all you need to know, not to mention interviews on all the great studio players.

[Bullitt]

It's one of those things that you have to play around with (mic positioning, levels..etc).  I know some people like to run a line direct and mic the cab and mix the signals for a fatter sound.  Also, by doing it this way, you can use whichever signal you want (if you don't want to mix them).

I guess I haven't really answered your question either.

+1

It (can) take a little bit longer to set up due to having to get correct levels and fight studio gremlins (feedback, random rattles, mic placement) but the end product is well worth the time investment IMO.


-J

[Kevykev388]

Thank you LGM members for your input. You guys always come through