One mic over treble strings and one over bass strings at a distance of 1–2′.

It is worth experimenting with the lid in different positions, but as with any instrument, if the performer has a preference, it can be worth catering to them to encourage the best performance possible.īelow are a few options for miking a grand piano:

Having the lid is open, closed, or taken completely off will affect the tone of the instrument. This position can, however, be problematic on an instrument with squeaky pedals.įor the grand piano, like the upright, condenser mics with a wide frequency response are a good choice, but the different shape and layout of the instrument requires that it be miked differently.

With the kickboard removed (there is usually a metal latch holding it in place), one mic is placed at each end.

A stereo pair in an X-Y or ORTF pattern can be placed above the pianist’s head.

These can be either spaced with one at each end of the soundboard or together in an X-Y pattern.

With the piano pulled away from the wall so the soundboard is facing the room, a pair of mics can be placed at a distance of 6–8″ (see Fig.

Over the open lid of the piano, place either a single mic, a spaced pair, or a coincident pair.

Here are some placement options for an upright piano: The choice between wide-diaphragm or pencil condensers is a matter of taste, but pencil condensers are a little more common. Condenser mics are usually the best choice for a clean, natural sound. The piano has the greatest range of any instrument, so it’s best to use a microphone that has a wide frequency response.

How to play latch on piano