Why Did Singers Use Two Microphones – The Advantages

Posted by Mike Schumacher

Using two microphones can capture different aspects of a singer’s voice.

This article will talk about the advantages of using two microphones to record vocals, and why singers should consider using two mics for the ultimate vocal sound.

When a singer wants to capture a unique vocal sound, she may opt to use two microphones.

One of the two mics should be placed near the center of the vocal instrument, but the other mic should be placed more toward the edge of the vocal instrument.

This will give a singer the best chance to capture the highs and lows from a natural position, but also incorporate the frequencies from her second microphone.

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Some vocalists prefer to use a single mic for the entire track, while others like to have their microphone used in multiple places on the track.

How to use two mics

2 gray microphones macro photography

The two main aspects of recording vocal tracks using two microphones include:

  • Higher- and lower-frequency sound production
  • Acoustic reflection and absorption
  • Amplification

Two microphones can be placed near each other on a vocal track.

Using one microphone will give a singer a very direct sound, whereas using two mics will help a singer incorporate higher and lower frequencies into her recording.

Different musicians use two or more mics in different ways.

For example, rappers will often choose to mix two mics on a track to create a heavier, harsher sound, while many singers prefer to use two mics to achieve an open, resonant sound.

Selecting the correct mic placement

grayscale photo of microphone stands

Getting the right placement of microphones for vocals is crucial, especially for an electric instrument or any instrumentalist who is to be positioned close to a microphone.

The placement of a microphone is crucial for capturing the best quality vocal performance.

If the mic is placed too close, then the sound will be dominated by the mic itself.

If the mic is placed too far from the vocal instrument, then the sound will not be extended and will be compressed to a narrow width.

In addition to ensuring the placement of the microphone is correct, it is also important that the microphone is placed in a good location to prevent unwanted acoustic absorption and reflections.

The best placement of the microphone can be determined based on the following factors:

  • The sound produced by the instrument
  • The type of instrument
  • The position and size of the instrument
  • The proximity to the microphone
  • The distance from the microphone
  • The shape of the vocal instrument
  • The rest of the recording environment
  • Other microphones and accessories

Certain microphones can help capture high-quality vocals.

For example, many electronic music artists, and especially vocalists, prefer to use Neumann U47 or U47 Sound Labs to capture their natural vocal range.

Electronic musicians may use more than one type of microphone, such as mid-diaphragm, chorus, and rear-diaphragm.

If an electronic musician or singer is not comfortable using only one microphone, then it is best to try out a few to see what works best for the singer.

They are more lightweight and easy to transport, so they are ideal for those who want to capture an environment while performing.

When using a professional microphone, the mic must have a good optical system, since a microphone with an optical system will provide a clearer and cleaner sound.

Most people get excited about using a high-quality professional microphone, such as the Shure SM58, because of its reliability and technical sound quality.

However, a lightweight, easy-to-carry acoustic microphone, such as the Shure SM22, is a great alternative, as it is easy to carry around and can capture a wide range of sounds and pitches.

Choosing a good mic holder

Aluminum audio battery broadcast

Good microphones will fall off the stand when being used. It is important to mount the mic securely to a stand.

There are different types of mic stands, and there are several factors that make a good choice. There are three basic types of mic stands:

  • Scratched or uncoated stands
  • Nozzle stands
  • Slide mounts

Scratched stands are used with low-cost or older mics, such as the Shure SM40.

It is generally not recommended to use these stands for high-quality recordings, as the voice will be cut off and the microphone will not be positioned well.

Nozzle stands

Nozzle stands are used with high-quality mics, such as the Shure SM58.

To prevent damage to the microphone, they are typically placed on stand stands with adhesive backings.

A nozzle stand protects the microphone, as it is easy to manipulate without damaging the microphone.

Slide mounts

Slide mounts are popular for both vocals and instruments because they allow a microphone to fit inside a small or oval-shaped sound enclosure, without the distortion of a large drum or guitar enclosure.

Although the microphone is small, it is still fully functional, as it is still attached to a slide mount.

The sound from the microphone will bounce around the slide mount and into the sound enclosure, preventing damaging the microphone.

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