How to Use a Microphone to Record Music

Step 1:
Test the microphone levels and sound system before a live performance.

Step 2:
Set the microphone level as high as possible without distorting (exceeding 100 VU or going into the red on a recording meter) or causing feedback.

Step 3:
Sing directly into a cardioid microphone. Maintain the same distance from the microphone throughout a song.

Step 4:
Choose the same model of microphone for all singers in a group.

Step 5:
Use a windscreen to prevent unwanted sounds ("p" sounds making an unpleasant popping noise) and hissing ("s" sounds making a sibilant, hissing noise).

Step 6:
Keep microphones away from speakers to avoid feedback.

Step 7:
Employ omnidirectional microphones for recording instruments in a studio, and place them equidistant from the sources you want to pick up.

Step 8:
Place two omnidirectional microphones perpendicular to each other to record a performance without vocals.

Step 9:
Use microphones recommended by manufacturers for specific instruments.

Step 10:
Place unidirectional and cardioid microphones close to the sound source of acoustic instruments (for example, the hole in a guitar or the opening of a horn).

Step 11:
Follow the instructions in your manual to determine how close the microphone should be to the source. Test the microphone on your sound system or make a brief recording to determine the best distance.