Best way to record Saxophone. Tips and Trick Highly appreciated

[opegas]

Originally Posted by Fredofrog

I play what they call now “Smooth Jazz” (also known as L.A. style) music,

So sad this is what the folks down under think of the LA jazz scene.

Anyway you'll love the combo with trp.

[Slap]

Add some grit. Saxophones break up well with a narrow band mic like this:

Flagg | Mics

Think Harmonica!

[Musiclab]

the single most important factor in recording saxophone, is the player. I produce and record an alto sax player named Paula Atherton, she has a huge big fat sound, for her I use a condenser, lately a Pearlman TM1 a little above the bell pointed across it towards the keys. The sax sound comes from the whole horn, and often the bell can be overly bright. There are many other players I've recorded who have a much thinner edgier tone, for them you need a darker mic. As far as other condensers go I've also had a lot of luck with a 414 TLII. The mids are scooped in a way that works well with sax. BTW DONT BE AFRAID TO USE COMPRESSION, it happens to be a horn players best friend

[Fredofrog]

Hi everyone. My quest for the best mic/preamp combo for my sax is over. I use now exclusively AKG-414 B-ULS (modified by Jim Williams) and Audio Upgrades mic preamp (Jim just modified his own preamp for me). He made me the best combo of the mic/preamp for MY saxophones and I hardly use any EQ on my saxophones now. I am VERY happy with Jim's work and he is one of these "old school", no BS people who actually knows what he is talking about. He is a true legend and his products and services are excellent. Regards. IGOR

[Jim Williams]

Mucho gracias, senor!

[deltasigma]

I'm surprised that the old favourite the RE20 has not been mentioned yet. Just of to the left about a foot or so away. Then a nice omni room mic such as the 414. Get the room position right (Mics and musician) and phase cohesion right and the results are yummy.

D