XY technique with side-address condenser microphones

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 6:19 pm

Hi,

I am trying to figure out the right way to use my AT2020 side address microphones in an XY technique for drum overheads. I just can't seem to understand it by reading articles about it because none of the microphones in the diagrams are side-address.

Also, is XY the best technique the best for drum overheads?

Thanks to anyone that can help me!

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 7:19 pm

The only difference between side address and front address is which side of the mic you are pointing at the overheads-and usually front address are small diaphragm microphones.

The most important thing is to know and understand your gear. Learn your mic's pattern and what point(s) on the mic is the loci of the pattern. Position accordingly.

As to what is the best pattern, better folks than I will chime in. In the end, what counts is the quality of sound you can get on your tracks.

Posted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 8:47 pm

I like the recorderman technique (although lately i've been using dual mono, since you don't really need stereo overheads with lo-fi indie rock)

I think this has been posted around 1000 times here on RO, but here you go:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiFOD1EeKhQ

Posted: Thu Apr 03, 2008 5:37 pm

In an XY pattern think of how you're positioning the capsules themselves, not the bodies of the mic. Instead of reading though, go set them up and experiment a little bit.

As far as being the "best," there really is no best besides what will suit the song the best. If you're looking for great mono compatability, the recorderman technique or XY or M/S will all work great. If you're looking for a nice wide stereo image then look into the spaced pair technique.

Posted: Sat Apr 05, 2008 12:31 pm

Thanks guys, that helped!

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