Sound On Sound
How room acoustics shape drum recordings
This insightful comparison explores the fascinating impact of room acoustics on drum recordings. Using the same drummer, microphones, and preamps, the drum sound is captured in multiple different rooms to highlight how each space uniquely shapes the audio. This demonstration reveals the significant role that room characteristics play in defining the recorded drum sound, offering valuable insights for producers and engineers seeking to optimize their recording environments.
Reverb.com
3 mics to record Black Keys-style drums
To capture a Black Keys-style drum sound, the setup includes a Ludwig Vistolite kick drum, a Ludwig Black Beauty snare drum, and K dark Zildjian hi-hats. The miking approach is a modified Glyn Johns technique, using three microphones strategically placed to ensure phase alignment and enhance the kick drum's presence while reducing hi-hat bleed. The overhead mic is positioned in front of the kit to capture more kick drum sound, while the side mic and kick mic follow traditional Glyn Johns placements. This setup is crucial for achieving the desired drum sound, especially with the heavy distortion and compression that gets applied. To add brightness and energy, reflective panels are used in the live room. By flipping baffles to their reflective side, the drums gain extra liveliness and presence, closely matching the vibrant sound of Patrick Carney's drumming.