Renowned recording engineer Owain Fleetwood Jenkins shares his approach to capturing a great piano sound using a C. Bechstein Model C grand piano. He employs a HUM Audio RS-2 stereo ribbon microphone in a Blumlein configuration to achieve a natural, classical tone that captures the room's ambiance beautifully.
For a more contemporary and punchy sound, Jenkins uses a pair of close AKG C-414s positioned over the hammers, adhering to the 3:1 rule to ensure phase coherence. This setup provides a distinct punch to the notes, helping them cut through the mix effectively.
Jenkins emphasizes the importance of microphone placement and room acoustics in achieving the desired tonal characteristics, whether aiming for a natural or brighter sound. His techniques demonstrate how different microphone combinations can be tailored to suit various musical genres and recording contexts.