Our Method
We endeavour to operate in as simple and straightforward
a manner as is possible to capture the sound; with our type of work with
musicians, they normally provide the natural balance required without any
intervention from us. Unless instructed otherwise, our aim is to capture the sound heard
in the hall or other performing space and work with this.
The recording set up will usually start with us using a
basic stereo image with 2 microphones arranged as an M-S
(Mid-Side) pair mounted centrally, on one stand, (though occasionally slung from
above where this is necessary) as this will form the main source of sound for
the recording. Occasionally, additional microphones will be used for aiding
balance of soloists or to augment quieter instruments (such as a harpsichord) or
in very large ensembles, where the distinct sections of say a large choir and an
orchestra will require more control to ensure balance and clarity. In many
instances, the simple M-S pair of microphones is all that will be required to
capture the sound and provide a very realistic rendition of the live
performance.
Having found a microphone set up that suits the
performer's needs, the signals from the microphones are fed to a disc based 24
bit digital recorder (SADiE LRX2 portable recorder) and by this means, we can
handle numerous individual signals for mixing down to stereo afterwards.
The recordings are ready for any digital
editing and / or other work where required*; this may be just a matter of
removing long pauses, applause or coughs between movements of a piece. More
extensive work may also be carried out at this stage including editing together
sections (or even individual notes!) of several different takes of a piece,
balancing solos where required, removing odd sounds from an audience just before
the conductor's baton was lowered and so on. When we have an edited and balanced
recording, there may be one further stage if the venue did not provide us with a
pleasing acoustic; most choral and instrumental performances need the help
of a good acoustic to add that final bloom to them. If the venue cannot provide
that feeling of spaciousness and lushness to the sound, then we are able to
provide that missing element using reverberation devices. The final recording is
then transferred to CD ready for approval.
* A more detailed explanation of the work involved at this
stage may be found at "From the recording to the CD"
This page last updated
09/05/08