What Does It All Mean?

I was a little surprised by the results of this test. I figured that the B&K and/or the Neumann would clean up, and I hoped (thanks to my contrary nature) that the Shure SM58 would shine. After we completed the objective tests, I found myself really favoring the B&K and the Beyer, and saying to myself, “Well, that peak in the Shure is exactly what it sounds like and it sure works! I bet it’ll do really well on the vocal’n mix tests and the commercial rock recording.” Shows what I know.

So how should you use this information? For vocal recording especially, the microphone works more like a paint-brush than a camera lens. If you had participated in these tests, you probably would have come up with similar scores and comments. So, use our listeners’ comments plus your own ears. Remember, there is no bestest and money doesn’t grow on trees. Examine the tradeoffs between versatility, cost and performance. Consider client demand and label status if they matter to you. Then, comments in hand, check out the mics you’re interested in, take a deep breath and . . .

Whew!!

Happy takes!

Credits

Thanks to all these people and places. Without their help, we couldn’t possibly have pulled this off!

The singers and listeners:

Joanne Allen, graduate of Berklee College of Music (Music Production and Engineering major), is producing and performing in Boston. She is currently producing her first solo album, Give Love.

Haziel Olivera, vocalist and recording engineer, is completing his studies at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell. He is performing with the Christian music group “Celebration.”

Stephanie Siconio is a student at Berklee College of Music (Music Education major).

Joel Someillan, graduate of Berklee College of Music (Music Production and Engineering major), is producing and performing in Boston. His debut album with the band “A.K.A” is due for release this summer.

Robin Spears, student at Berklee College of Music (Music Business and Management major), is an active session and live performer in Boston.

Other listeners:

Carl Beatty, Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music, mixed the Grammy-winning “Zappa’s Universe.” His credits range from Sesame Street to Tom Jones to Anita Baker.

Alex Case, graduate of Berklee College of Music (Music Production and Engineering major) works as assistant engineer at Blue Jay Studios, Carlisle, MA, and assists me on various writing projects.

Mark Torre, recording engineer, is completing his studies at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell. He was the engineer for this project.

Wayne Wadhams, Professor at Berklee College of Music, is the author of the Sound Advice series of books and CDs and owner of Boston Skyline Records.

Other credits:

Peter Alhadeff, Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music (teaching Mathematics, Economics and Statistics), provided the statistical organization, planning and documentation for this project.

Center for Recording Arts, Technology and Industry (CRATI) at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell provided studio time and tape.

Parsons Audio, Wellesley, MA, provided Genelec 1031 speakers and lots of product support.

Manny LaCarrubba, chief engineer at The Plant Studios in Sausalito, CA, provided tremendous guidance, suggestions, insight and encouragement.