Ukulele Mic Placement for Recording
In this article
- Mic closely for Warmth: Position a condenser mic 6–8 inches from the sound hole for rich low-end.
- Bright Articulation: Aim the mic toward the 12th fret for clarity and sparkle.
- Stereo Depth: Use two mics—one near the bridge, one near the neck—for a full Lanikai tone.
- Of course, if your Lanikai is equipped with a pickup you can go direct into a channel and blend with mic tones as preferred.
Placing a condenser mic close to the sound hole of your ukulele captures its natural warmth and resonance. This technique emphasizes the low-end frequencies and gives a full tone, perfect for solo recordings and intimate acoustic tracks. Always monitor proximity effect of the mic to avoid excessive bass buildup.
For crisp articulation, shift the mic toward the 12th fret. This position highlights the clarity and brightness that Lanikai ukuleles are known for, making fingerpicking and intricate chord voicings shine. It’s a simple adjustment that will likely transform your recording from muddy to sparkling.
When you want depth and dimension, use a stereo setup. Position one mic near the bridge and another near the neck to capture the complete tonal spectrum of your Lanikai. This approach adds width and realism, making your ukulele sound immersive in any mix.
Rock Clouser
Strings Brand Manager, KHS America
