What are the best techniques for miking a guitar amp in a live performance?

1 Choose the right mic

The first step is to choose the right mic for your guitar amp. There are many types of mics available, but the most common ones are dynamic and condenser mics. Dynamic mics are more rugged, handle high sound pressure levels, and have a tighter polar pattern, which means they reject more sound from the sides and back. Condenser mics are more sensitive, capture more detail and nuance, and have a wider frequency response, but they also pick up more ambient noise and require phantom power. Depending on your style, genre, and preference, you may want to use one or the other, or even a combination of both.

2 Place the mic correctly

The next step is to place the mic correctly on your guitar amp. The position of the mic can have a huge impact on the sound you get, so you need to experiment and listen carefully. Generally, there are three main areas to consider: the center, the edge, and the distance. The center of the speaker cone is where you get the brightest and most direct sound, while the edge is where you get the warmest and most mellow sound. You can move the mic along this axis to find the sweet spot that suits your tone. The distance of the mic from the amp also affects the sound. The closer you place the mic, the more bass and proximity effect you get, while the farther you place the mic, the more room and air you get. You can also angle the mic to reduce or increase the brightness and presence.

3 Adjust the gain and EQ

The third step is to adjust the gain and EQ of your mic signal. The gain is the amount of amplification you apply to the mic signal, and it affects the volume and distortion of your sound. You want to set the gain high enough to get a strong and clear signal, but not too high that it clips or overloads the input. The EQ is the adjustment of the frequency balance of your mic signal, and it affects the tone and clarity of your sound. You want to use the EQ to enhance or reduce certain frequencies that suit your sound, but not too much that it sounds unnatural or harsh. For example, you may want to boost the low end to add some warmth and body, cut the midrange to avoid muddiness and feedback, or boost the high end to add some sparkle and definition.

4 Mix and monitor the signal

The final step is to mix and monitor your mic signal with the rest of the instruments and vocals. The mix is the balance and blend of all the sound sources in your performance, and it affects the overall quality and impact of your sound. You want to adjust the level, panning, and effects of your mic signal to create a coherent and pleasing mix that supports your musical vision. The monitor is the sound you hear on stage, either through speakers or headphones, and it affects your performance and feedback. You want to set up a monitor system that allows you to hear yourself and the other musicians clearly and comfortably, without causing feedback or interference.

Miking a guitar amp in a live performance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. You need to experiment and adapt to different situations and preferences. By following these techniques, you can improve your sound quality and enjoy your performance more.