Piano – Pair of Condensers

The 88 key Grand Piano spans the entire range of the orchestra. This makes a pair of condenser microphones the ideal choice for delivering the full range and nuance of every key.

There are several approaches to consider when recording grand piano. Traditionally, when recording classical music, the microphones are placed outside the body of the open piano, spaced a few feet apart on the furthest side from the performer. This approach will capture a good balance between the room and the piano.

In more contemporary styles, the microphones are placed inside the piano for more isolation and, closer to the hammers for more attack.

The main surface of resonance on the grand piano is the soundboard beneath the strings.

A simple way to fill out the body of your piano sound is to place a dynamic microphone on top of a cloth, within one of the holes of the piano frame. (this should be used in addition to a pair of condensers)