EQUIPMENT
A run down of the classic equipment which Analog Audio uses for audio recordings and musical projects.
Neumann U87ai
One of the most well known studio microphones, the U87 is the standard in the industry for speech and vocals. A large diaphragm condenser with 3 polar patterns and a flat response make this microphone incredibly versatile and an ideal choice for a range of recording techniques. For fidelity, clarity, and authoritative presence this mic cant be beaten, particularly with regards to vocals and helping them shine in a mix.
Analog Audio uses a U87 for the majority of vocal sessions - and particularly when recording female vocals.
ElectroVoice RE20
The RE20 is a classic microphone used for broadcasting, online content and sound engineering. Being a dynamic microphone with an extended low end also makes it fantastic for recording bass guitar and kick drum. But whilst it is versatile, the lack of proximity effect and in-built pop shield keep it as a firm favourite for vocals - famous users of the microphone include Thom Yorke of Radiohead, Stevie Wonder & Kurt Cobain of Nirvana.
Analog Audio uses an RE20 for the majority of drum recordings - but is also a strong option and go-to when recording male vocals.
AKG D112
The AKG D112 is a classic mic for kick drums that features a large diaphragm, designed for high sound pressure levels.
The microphone is calibrated specifically for picking up low end and the D112 is widely use for bass applications. This includes kick drum, floor toms, tuba or bass guitar.
A presence boost allows it to still give some high frequency punch and its tailored eq response means it sits in the mix nicely, allowing the kick to sit harmoniously with the bass guitar, or vice versa.
Analog Audio like to use the D112 with kick drum or bass guitar, depending on which is going to fill the lowest end of the final mix.
Neumann KM184
Small Diaphragm Condensers, or ‘pencil mics’, usually come in pairs. These miniature microphones are designed to pick up incredibly detailed high end with faithful accuracy and as such are well suited for rhythmic instruments such as acoustic guitar or cymbal overheads. Whilst some can seem harsh and unflattering, Neumann’s KM184 provide a smooth detail which is rarely matched by other Small Diaphragm Microphones. When used as a stereo pair in a well-treated room, the KM184 can give incredible realism and sense of depth.
Analog Audio use the Neumann KM184 as a go-to pencil microphone, when tracking a fast paced or detailed drum track, or a particularly rhythmic acoustic instrument.
AKG 414
The AKG 414 is one of the most famous Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones available. With 9 polar patterns, including Omnidirectional, this Microphone can offer a large degree of versatility – especially when used as a pair. LDC mics are essentially part microphone, part instrument – they impart their own sound onto the source and will usually make the sound source appear larger, more engaging and more sweet. Depending on the application this can be a fantastic quality, sacrificing realism for a more romantic sound. As such the AKG 414 rarely sounds bad and is an incredible tool in an engineer’s arsenal.
Analog Audio use a pair of 414s in a variety of settings, including as drum overheads, ambient mics, on orchestral instruments and even guitar amps, such is their versatility.
