Some Misc./beginner Vox questions

[JEdmunds]

I'm recording vocals with a Neumann TLM-103.
I'm trying to optimize the sound quality as much as I possibly can.
This may be a silly question, but I've noticed that many other types of mic's are typically mounted upside down. Is this something I could or should do with the TLM-103? Does this change the sound or is it only for certain mic's?
Also I was wondering if people generally put a high and low pass EQ on the vocal track to stop any uncessary noise or unneeded vocal sounds (too low or to high frequences) to come through ? It seems to me that this would help the vocal track 'slot' into the mix a little better.
Also any other advice on getting a good, professional sound out of my mic would be greatly appreciated. I give you my permission to treat me like an idiot.
Thanks,
JE

[Kev]

Find a great singer and you will have a great vocal. It can be easy as that. An SM58 in the hand of someone who knows how to use it and on the right sort of material and it all just happens.

However,, (Quality) Mic, Mic-Pre with high pass filter and Compression is a good start. Take care with puffs and T's Q's and S's.... by positioning of the Mic and by varying the singer's delivery. Get/make a 'POP' shield.

Most of all keep practicing - by doing it again and again.

Listen to you favourite vocalists and try to copy the delivery and the production techniques. Listen closely and do it yourself many things just start to sink in,

good luck.

[Mano]

Try this site from DPA-microphones
microphone university
They offer loooootttttsssss of very very very interesting FREE info . [img]images/icons/cool.gif[/img]
BTW : the DPA's sound so much better than the not so bad sounding but over-estimated Neumann's.
[img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img]
Since there is ProTools I wouldn't record vocals to disc with compressors and EQ's .
Just record it pure and insert some comp and EQ just for the feel of it, afterwards you can always tweak and experiment. Personally I would never reduce high's because they always make a vocal sound so alive !...and if you have troubles with sibilants use a deesser. Also try mike-positioning like head up ,head down, axis on chest, axis on forehead, off axis etcetra... Hop to the DPA site ...it's all there

[J Harry]

If you're in possesion of a decent compresser definently use it going to disk. Like mics, different compressers and amounts of compression really help the sound of different singers. Do not de-ess going to disk. Much better to do it at the mix once you settled on a vocal sound. A bit of a hi pass filter (though no higher than 75hz) will stop annoying low endy things (like foot steps) from messing with your compression setttings. Try different mics- Expensive isn't always the best. Sometimes an SM58 does the job better than a U-67.
Experiment and you will be rewarded