[a.swart916]

Hi Guys,

I am doing some research on micing up a mbira http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mbira

Condensers are not an option as the artist occasionally plays small venues where feedback and phantom power is an issue. And the in house engineers don't always have the gear to remedy feedback, or in many instances, don't have consoles that can provide phantom.

The mbira has quite a unique "wha-wha" sound that needs to be captured, and pick-ups don't capture that sound.

I am thinking SM57 or Beta 57.
But any other recommendations are greatly appreciated.


Thanks guys!

[ramdram]

This might be the moment where you break out the mic stock and a suitable stand and do the experiment thing with distances, angles and heights in a similar space to where they will be played sort of thing. I can see the instrument, and there appears to be a few versions so to speak, but can't hear them so difficult to say, exactly.

By all means start off with a '57 for the sake of reference and go from there. If you do "solve" the problem please let us know...all adds to the general knowledge bank.

[kerry davies]

I have seen an Mbira with a built in mic similar to a viloin (viloin?? VIOLIN) bridge mic and the gourd tyes are easily mic'd like an acoustic Spanish guitar.

The problem with Mbira players is that the best angle for "normal" micing them up means they turn their back to the audience or have the mic facing forward, awkward.

This post has been edited by kerry davies: 11 June 2012 - 08:54 AM

[Oldradiohand]

Get a phantom power box and use a condensor cardioid - a dynamic mic won't do justice to the attack of an instrument like this.