Gospel live recording...help needed

[barforama]

So here we go.....

I have been ordered to make a live-production of a Gospel-choir concert. At the same time they've requested that I'd make a recording of the concert.

So here's the question:

How would you do this?

a) Multitrack recording of the whole damn shit

or

b) Stereo recording (XY, MS, blumlein, spaced omnis or whatever)

The setup is standard. A piano, a Hammond organ, a bass, drums and the choir (30-40 people).

Off course the setup AND post-production will be A LOT easier with a stereo setup, but whaddaya say?

[Steve Smith]

Are you making a video production, or sudio only? I am assuming video....

Definatly make a full on multi track recording of the event, in the least record seprate stems of the band, vocals etc ( maybe, stereo b3, stereo kit, bass, stereo ambience, spot mics for solists and 2 or 3 stereo pairs on the choir? that could let you away with around 16 tracks?).You can allways record a kick ass 2 mix at the same time and use it if you want, but I would want the flexability of remixing, and polishing/sweetening that a multitrack recording gives you.

i doubt that post will be eaiser on you with just a stereo setup, just potentially quicker ( and most likely more painful.)

Let us know how it goes!

Steve R, could you chime in? esp in regards to the whole video - audio clocking tomfoolery that is required?

[barforama]

No video. Just audio.

[Remoteness]

IMO, you should multitrack this session. Being able to remix the tracks later is a nice safety net. A stereo recording may not cut it.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't throw up a stereo mic situation. Just put them on a pair of tracks. Maybe try recording a few different techniques on a couple of stereo tracks.

The stereo recording may compliment your multitrack recording just fine.

Two mics on the piano, two to three mics on the Hammond's leslie. A DI and a mic on the bass and at least 4 or five mics on drums will work just right. Don't forget to add some mics for audience response.

I usually place at least two mics per choir (soprano, tenor and alto) sections.

I don't believe the post production would be easier with a stereo setup, then a multitrack. If the stereo pair sounds good, you're golden. If not you're screwed. Multitrack the event and enjoy yourself. 24 tracks will do the job just fine.

I hope this helped.