How To Record an Acoustic Guitar

One of the most common challenges for a DIY music producer is to record acoustic guitar. Opinions on this subject are all over the map because there are so many variations for microphone techniques, acoustic guitar sound, guitar picking style, mixing techniques, and other variables that come into play.

In this article, I’ll cover some of my personal preferences when it comes to recording acoustic guitar. As with many other recording articles here at Serve The Song, these recommendations are geared towards the home studio producer, but can be applied in any setting.

One important thing to note about recording in general, is that the performance always matters the most. No matter how optimal your recording set up is, how expensive your gear is, how knowledgeable of audio engineering you are, the only way to achieve a great recording is if the performer is totally comfortable.

Microphone Techniques for Acoustic Guitar

Microphone placement

The first thing to point out here is that stereo micing is the ideal choice to record acoustic guitar. I suggest going with an XY configuration, as this will provide the widest stereo image possible. Sometimes, in budget home recording situations, you may have to go with a mono recording approach if you’re limited to only a few microphone inputs. For example, If you’re doing guitar and vocals simultaneously and you only have two microphone inputs, then stick with one mic on the acoustic (the other on the vocals). Don’t multi-track separately only for the sake of doing a stereo acoustic guitar recording. If your performer is more comfortable doing them together, make that the priority.

The next thing to consider when recording acoustic guitar is microphone placement. Again, there are so many differences of opinion here that you could spend hours or even days test recording different microphone positions. I do suggest trying out various techniques to see what works best for your guitar. One acoustic guitar will sound quite different from the next and the same is true of your recording environment. Do several test recordings or try moving the mics around while wearing your headphones to find that sweet spot to set the mic.

The position that works best for me is the XY configuration at the 12th fret of the guitar. Close mic your acoustic guitar, placing the microphone diaphragms about four to six inches from the neck, just two frets short of the guitar body. Position the mics horizontally, so that both diaphragms are level with the 3rd and 4th strings. See the diagram below:

If you are limited to only one mic on the guitar, place your one microphone at the same position – at the 12th fret, and keep it angled 45 degrees toward the guitar body.

Microphone Choice

I hate to lay down any kind of “rule” when it comes to recording, but one that comes recommendation that comes pretty close would be to go with condenser microphones for acoustic guitar recording. Dynamic mics will get the job done, but a condenser will certainly bring out all of the subtle nuances and transients that make the acoustic guitar sound so unique.

Generally a large diaphragm condenser is a good choice as it will capture the low end frequencies of the acoustic guitar quite well. If you have access to a nice one, go for it. Otherwise, try a matched pair of pencil condenser mics. Obviously, there are so many great ones to choose from. It all depends on your budget really. My recommendation for home recordists on a tight budget would be to go with a pair of Octava MK O12 condensers.  It’s a relatively inexpensive choice with nice quality results.

Other Factors to Consider

The strings bring make up an important aspect of the sound of the acoustic guitar recording.  It’s always good to record with a newly strung instrument, however I recommend waiting two to three days after you re-string the guitar before laying down tracks.  The reason being, it takes a little while for strings to stretch out and settle into the instrument.  When they’re right out of the package, the strings have an overly bright and scratchy sound which could overpower the tone and character of the guitar.  New strings tend to easily fall out of tune causing you to have to re-tune before and after each take.  Wait a couple days to avoid this frustration.

Picking is also a super important factor when crafting the sound of an acoustic guitar recording.  Your pick thickness can drastically change the sharpness or roundness of the strumming sound.  My personal choice is medium fender picks, as they provide a good amount of stability with a sharp, direct cut at the strings.  Your strumming and picking style matter as well.  Don’t overpower it, but don’t change your natural performance style.

Your recording environment and room acoustics play a central role in any recording you do.  Here’s a previous article which covers how to set up your home studio with acoustic treatment.

Over to You…

Share your acoustic guitar recording techniques with us. What works for you? What doesn’t? What’s your favorite acoustic guitar mic?

Related posts:

1. Mic, Record, and Mix Acoustic Guitar [VIDEO]
2. Links Roundup: Acoustic Treatments for Home Recording Studios
3. The One-Man Studio: Record a Great Performance
4. What to Do Before You Record Your Song Demo
5. Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Steel Review

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