Q: I’ve noticed that when I’m recording guitar, often the bottom end is really muddy and it just sounds terrible.
I’ve thought about getting a stand or something to raise the amp up off the floor, but I always thought those stands were just so the musician could hear better.
Would something like that help the sound of my recordings?
A: Though some people may be surprised, a stand often will help in the case you’re describing.
In fact, it’s one of many tips courtesy of multi-platinum engineer/producer Keith Olsen on recording.
To achieve tight, controllable bottom end when miking a guitar amp, get the amp up off of the floor on a stand, case, or anything else that’s handy (and that’s sturdy enough to support the amp and damped enough not to resonate in response to sound from the amp).
In his opinion, elevating the amp a bit reduces floor reflections that can interfere with the low-end coming from the amp.
As always, we welcome input from the PSW community and would love to know your thoughts on this situation. Feel free to let us know in the comments below.
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