Using Vocal Microphones to Record Electric Guitar Through an Amplifier

When it comes to recording electric guitar through an amplifier, the choice of microphone can significantly impact the quality of sound. While condenser microphones are often recommended for superior sound, vocal microphones are also versatile and can produce excellent results. To effectively use a vocal microphone for this purpose, let's explore the prerequisites, setup, and best practices.

Prerequisites for Using a Vocal Microphone

Not all microphones are created equal, and understanding the characteristics of vocal microphones can help you in your recording process. Vocal microphones, while suitable for capturing vocals, are generally designed to handle the frequency range and dynamics specific to vocals. However, they can still work well for guitar amplifiers, thanks to their sensitivity and clarity.

Types of Vocal Microphones

There are several types of vocal microphones, but the ones most commonly recommended for this purpose include:

Condenser Microphones: These are highly sensitive and capture a wide frequency range. They run off phantom power at 48V, which is typically supplied by mixers or USB interfaces. If your equipment doesn't support phantom power, you can use a non-powered condenser microphone or supplement with a powered preamp. Dynamics Microphones: Medium diaphragm dynamics mics like the SM57 are also popular for recording electric guitar. They are durable and offer a warm, saturated sound that is well-suited for amplifiers. Small Diaphragm Dynamics: These microphones are also a good option for guitar cabinets, offering precise sound capture and good transient response.

While vocal microphones aren't specifically designed for guitar amps, there are instances where their characteristics make them a viable choice.

Setup for Using a Vocal Microphone

When setting up a vocal microphone to record an electric guitar, consider the following steps:

Positioning the Microphone: Place the microphone in front of one of the speakers in the guitar cab. Ideally, the mic should be about 6 to 12 inches from the speaker, depending on the size and model of your cabinet. Angle and Placement: Angle the microphone slightly towards the cone of the speaker for a cleaner and more focused sound. Avoid placing the microphone too close to the horn, as this can cause feedback or unwanted distortion. Cable Management: Run the microphone cable under the head of the amplifier to keep it out of the way and prevent tripping hazards.

Ensure that the microphone is properly positioned and angled for optimal sound capture. This setup can yield a warm, rich sound that is reminiscent of a well-recorded vocal take.

Alternative Solutions

If you don't have a condenser microphone or a setup that can provide phantom power, you can still use a dynamic microphone like the SM57. These microphones are widely used and offer good results with guitar amps. As mentioned, the SM57 is a medium diaphragm dynamic mic that is inherently robust and can handle the high-output signals from guitar amplifiers.

Conclusion

In summary, while condenser microphones are often the go-to choice for recording electric guitars, vocal microphones can also be used effectively. It's all about understanding the characteristics of the mic and setting it up correctly. Whether you use a condenser or a dynamic microphone, the key is to position it strategically in front of the speaker to capture the best possible sound.

For those looking to improve their recording setup, investing in a quality microphone and understanding its capabilities can lead to better sound quality and more satisfying recordings.