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How can I record two singers in one take in the same room with minimum spill?

I was thinking of two cardioids @ 180º with 2m separation. I wonder though, with reflections and all what the spill will be.

Any improvements to be made on this?

We have only one live room, no separate vocal booth. Only solid baffles, no windows.

A jazz band asked me if they can do the vocal parts this way. It is easier for them to get the timing right. I understand their point, but I wonder how to realize that in a good manner.

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cfaalm Wed, 12/05/2007 - 03:25

Thanx Bob and proto.

There will be no time shifting these voices. The whole purpose of recording it this way is tightness.

So I guess we'll have to see what the spill is and maybe try protostarts nice suggestion if we have the time.

Time is limited, also because one of the vocalists is going to be there all day playing guitar too. I'm preparing for as smooth a day as possible so he won't be exhausted before doing his vocal parts.

Would any of you expect any phase problems with the way I had it in mind? I don't, but maybe I'm dumb :oops:

BobRogers Wed, 12/05/2007 - 05:15

Unless there is a lot more spill than I'd expect, I'd think the phase problems would be minimal. However, if you feel there are problems after the first takes you might try to use two mics as a coincident stereo pair of some sort and record them like a choir. The song, the room, and the mics would have to be right and the vocalists would have to be comfortable with the setup. But at least it is a reasonable alternative. If they are used to unamplified singing it might be a very natural setup for them and induce a good performance.