hey I have to mic up a vibraphone for a small jazz band im engineering for. What is the best way to mic it up, which mics are best to use and whats the EQ usually like? only ask as I dont wanna go in completely blind cheers all

If it's a fairly modern, or eve old one in good nick then they are not too bad to do - BUT there are some things to consider, they are often played quietly, and if there is a lot of spill on stage, you're going to have to get closer than ideal. If possible treat it with respect from a distance - a spaced pair overhead as in drum overheads might be good if stage levels are low, the lower notes are quite powerful, so be prepared to boost the HF mic. You can get good sounds from underneath, IF the motor is quiet. most are not, and this position won't be useful at all because of the noise. You'll actually find the players are quite knowledgabel on mic technique - and will often say, oh - don't do that on this instrument, it alway sounds 'thin' - 'muffled' or other useful decsriptive words. Use their advice. If visual appearence isn't an issue, then a couple of audience side mics on booms works - but beware that the player doesn't go off on a flamboyent windmill impression - sticks and arms everywhere. EQ - mauybe a bit off the bottom, but neutralish.
P

Personally speaking, I'd use 2 or 3x Shure SM57's and not think anymore of the problem, untill it 'hit' the console

I was working with a band the other day, and they mic'd up their vibes with 2 Beta 98s or some such similar thing clipped to the underside, one at the top, one at the bottom. Couldn't tell you what it sounded like though, as the mix wasn't much cop, and I never noticed it being played.

Chris,

I used a pair of pencil condensers (Octava MK012 actually) as Paul says like drum overheads about 18" above the thing and slightly back away from the player (to avoid them getting whacked). Sounded lush. I tried underneath too but that was boomy and didn't seem to get the percussive tones.

There was some spill from the kit but it didn't matter at that particular gig (small trad jazz band, hotel ballroom).

Pete.

Cool thanks for replying. Im going to be working with this band on the 23rd Nov so ill try your suggestions and report bk! Thanks again