Re:So how do you record a djembe or .......
2010/10/07 19:48:21
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Tambourine:
In terms of mic’s, I have tried several and prefer the results I got from either my AKG 414 or my AEA R92 ribbon mic. I’ve used one mic to record and recorded at a distance of about 3 feet … the actual mic / tambourine orientation will depend on the room and the tambourine you are using (tambourine tones vary greatly)
Playing technique is critical. After much experimentation (and a desire to get a Beatles Rubber Soul / Revolver era tambourine sound) here is how I play for recording purposes.
I hold the tambourine in one hand perpendicular to the ground.
I strike the heel (or palm) of my other hand using a wrist action. In other words my forearm stays stationary and the wrist (of the hand holding the tambourine) is doing all the work.
Here is the critical part. After the tambourine hits your other hand … hold it there and don’t pull it away from the heel of your other hand. This allows the jangling sound to continue and decay naturally. When you pull the tambourine away from your other hand, it chokes it. This technique actually took a little practice on my part (after MUCH experimentation), if you are playing in time with the music, it doesn’t feel natural (at least to me) to hold the tambourine there.
… just a suggestion
Dave
8.5 PE 64, i7 Studio Cat, Delta 1010, GMS and Ludwig Drums, Paiste Cymbals
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