Mark Dimzon
Artist
I don't know. I'm stuck as to which is a better option. Right now I'm just using Guitar Rig 4 on the DI signal, but is it the best option?
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Guitar Recording - Direct Input or Mic the Amp?
- Thread starter Mark Dimzon
- Start date
FunkyStuff
Artist
Depends on what you want. Mic'ing up amps is good for a couple of main reasons:
- If you are recording for an artist (guitarist) then the likelihood is that they already have a sound they've refined on their own amp that they like. Trying to find that same sound through a VST/software can take a very long time, and you still won't get the same sound (not necessarily worse, though) than through an amp.
- It sounds more authentic than a plug-in, which to me sounds more artificial. You can't beat the real sound of a good guitar amp, in my opinion.
If you do record a guitar via a mic'd up amp then make sure you have a good enough mic. I frown on these top end microphones like tube condensers, as you can achieve exactly the same sound with a mid range microphone and some very basic EQ'ing. I'd recommend something like the Blue Bluebird microphone.
But yeah, if you're just doing it for your own purposes then a DI box and some good software will give you more flexibility of sound. You might want to look into something like Izotope Trash, which is a really good amp simulator.
- If you are recording for an artist (guitarist) then the likelihood is that they already have a sound they've refined on their own amp that they like. Trying to find that same sound through a VST/software can take a very long time, and you still won't get the same sound (not necessarily worse, though) than through an amp.
- It sounds more authentic than a plug-in, which to me sounds more artificial. You can't beat the real sound of a good guitar amp, in my opinion.
If you do record a guitar via a mic'd up amp then make sure you have a good enough mic. I frown on these top end microphones like tube condensers, as you can achieve exactly the same sound with a mid range microphone and some very basic EQ'ing. I'd recommend something like the Blue Bluebird microphone.
But yeah, if you're just doing it for your own purposes then a DI box and some good software will give you more flexibility of sound. You might want to look into something like Izotope Trash, which is a really good amp simulator.
bingo.
an endless supply of reasons to do either, but ultimately, whatever works best for the track is whats best, with the caveat that that may even change from one listen to the next. there is really no best --- trent reznor's stuff couldnt be any further from textbook methods, but its best for his stuff.
what i've done on occasion is run a tuner 1st inline, something that can split the signal between amp & direct setup, and tracked both mic'd and direct. leaves options later on.
thatguyfroma
Artist
This is the best course of action, as you can have the best of both worlds. Also Mark, what kind of music are you working on? If it requires heavy distortion, I'd say Guitar Rig is a big no-no in my opinion.
kantinenchef
Artist
John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers) did both on the Blood sugar sex magix record. He wanted that particular distortion of the mixing board with no cabinet emulator.