Mic Amp thru PA
Mon, 04/21/2014 - 10:22
Hi David I think this is simple question. How do you recommend micing an amp through the PA? Put an SM57 or similar about an inch from the speaker, maybe an inch or so from the edge, and start with a flat eq on the PA, no PA reverb or anything? Any tips on sound-checking it?
I have a situation coming up where I may need to do this, not sure.
I'm guessing you don't do this very often, but I really liked the sound of the MegaTone amp miced through the PA in the bassman chronicles. Do you recall what you did there?
Thanks!
Steve
You got it right, any standard vocal/instrument mic (Shure 58/57) placed ~1" away and ~1" in from the edge of the speaker (in a live situation we use this close mic'ing to ensure minimal bleed from other amps on the stage into our mic). You always mic your amp when possible, no matter the size of the amp. The goal is not always more volume, but better dispersion throughout the house. I personally use delay on my amp, so no effects from the board is needed, though if you don't have any on your amp, it's nice. When doing your volume check (sound check) make sure to play at accompaniment volume, the sound engineer's job is to balance your sound with the other musicians... you don't want your "solo" volume to at the same level as everyone else. Have a great show!