PartTimeSopran…
17 March 2023
I’m interested in potentially getting a ribbon microphone for mostly just hobby recording in my home. I’ve been having a terrible time finding examples and information on recording classical vocals on a ribbon microphone, however, the one example I did find sounded quite beautiful. The singer was recording using an AEA R84, however, it’s a bit out of my price range. I’m looking for something that’s ideally no more than $700.
I’m curious what recommendations people have and what your experience is with ribbon microphones and soprano vocals?
For a bit more context on my voice type: think Golden Age Broadway soprano. I primarily sing mezzo, and I have a distinct vibrato and the darker tone you tend to find with mezzos.
Thank you!
Comments
Ribbons can be nice, but…
Ribbons can be nice, but with a ribbon, the sound of the space is almost as important as the singer. The smoother sound is often seen as an advantage, but the other side of the mic gets captured too - for better or worse? In fairness LDC condensers do a pretty good job. I often double mic opera style singers with a 414 and a ribbon, and the cardioid condenser is often more usable and controlled - enabling the sound to be managed a bit better afterwards. Sometimes the ribbbon is just too 'big', or worse, hears that sniffing person behind them!