As a sound source gets closer to any directional microphone, it doesn’t just get louder. The bass frequencies become more prominent. This is known as the proximity effect, and as the distance between the microphone and the source decreases, the effect can be pretty dramatic.
Make no mistake, this is a feature, not a bug. You can leverage this to your advantage, but you should also be aware that when you’re miking something, particularly as you get in close, maintaining a constant distance is important in maintaining a consistent sound. I’m talking to you, vocalists.
And I’m talking to you, horn players, and upright bass players, don’t even get me started. If you find when you’re recording, the position of the artist in relation to the position of the microphone tends to… evolve.
This little trick might help. Tape. And you don’t just put an X on the floor.
Once the performer has settled in and is comfortable in their stance, place a line of tape at their toe, perpendicular to each of their feet. I find this to be a helpful point of reference to keep everybody comfortably in their spots, even after they step away to take a break. Is your session going to be ruined if you don’t do this?
No, of chorus not. But if you find yourself looking for a way to mark the spot because the spot is important, this might be a good solution. And if someone who belongs in a Beat Kitchen class, share this post.
