Drum shields for recording?

[ptdude]

I'm relatively limited to a single large room - and wanting to keep everyone in the same space for an "all band" (other than vocals) tracking session.

While it seems obvious that a (plexiglass) drum shield would provide some of the isolation I desire (I believe that "bleed is my friend,") is it a reasonable solution?

Anyone else using one for recording?

Thanks!

[ptdude]

Also, I'm aware of the limitations (this is no isolation booth, just a way to get some separation.) My plan would be to drape blankets on the inside to reduce sound reflections.

[musicman691]

Originally Posted by ptdude

Also, I'm aware of the limitations (this is no isolation booth, just a way to get some separation.) My plan would be to drape blankets on the inside to reduce sound reflections.

You've found the biggest problem with clear gobos - reflections back at the drummer. It gets bad enough that one's timing will get thrown off. I would not use plexiglass or any gobo with a hard reflective side. There are plenty out there that aren't reflective. And if you need to view your compadres there's even some that have a small clear window so you can see out.

[AlexLakis]

You may most likely find yourself pleasantly surprised with just how much sound those clear drum shields stop. Its really quite amazing. Your plan to drape blankets is a good one too. Give it all a try, it really works wonders!

[albee1952]

Instead of trying to isolate the drums, why not work on isolating the other stuff. Place mic'd speaker cabs in other rooms and use a Reflexion filter on the vocal mics

[amagras]

Originally Posted by albee1952

Instead of trying to isolate the drums, why not work on isolating the other stuff. Place mic'd speaker cabs in other rooms and use a Reflexion filter on the vocal mics

I think he's planning to record vocals at a later stage. I like this idea of isolating the other stuff. I would cover the cabs with a bunch of moving blankets, they will work as isolation boxes that way he can focus on getting better drum sound out of the room.

[JFreak]

cabs to another room and that's it

[amagras]

Originally Posted by JFreak

cabs to another room and that's it

That would be ideal but it depends on what means relatively for the OP.

Originally Posted by ptdude

I'm relatively limited to a single large room

[ptdude]

First, thanks for the responses. Really appreciate it!

Cabs in the other room doesn't allow for the "everyone gets into it like a live performance." - though I did put one in the hall - and draped 2 of the 3 with blankets (tho that doesn't help much for bass.)

Last week it was some base tracks with 3 acoustic guitars, bass (DI for recording, live for "feel") and drums. That was more problematic than the prior week recording electric guitars.

[amagras]

There is a device to allow bass players "feel" the bass without the speaker, it is some kind of rotor that can be attached in the bottom of a chair and simulates the vibrations. I don't know how it's called tho. I would go another room anyways, it is just a matter of getting used to it.