By: Kevin Manieri
George’s Music

You’ve been practicing and playing for some time now.  It’s only logical that you want to commit your ukulele-playing to a recording!  Here are some tips and products to help you get a great recorded sound from your ukulele.

First, there are several ways to record any instrument, not just uke.  Let’s look at a few of them:

Portable Recording

Keep it simple!  If you’re on the go, on a budget, or just want to be able to press 1 button and start recording, pick up a high-quality portable recorder.  Zoom makes a line of recorders with incredibly clear built-in mics and super flexibility, all in a package that will fit in your pocket.  Check out the Zoom H1, Zoom H2, or Zoom H4N for the ultimate in portable recording.

Hard-Disk Recording

In this type of recording, you will use a microphone (or two) and record directly to a device where you can edit and mix.  The Boss BR-800 is a great example.  You would record your ukulele and other instruments directly to this machine – up to 4 signals at a time.

Computer Recording

This type of recording is a bit more complex at first, but very reliable and easy once you get up and running.  Your microphone’s signal goes into an interface, like the PreSonus AudioBox, then to your computer via USB.  You use a recording software to monitor and manipulate the recording on-screen.

Microphone Tips

For hard-disk or computer recording, mic selection and placement is the heart of the matter.  Acoustic instruments like a ukulele sound best with condenser microphones like the CAD GXL2200.  These mics are more sensitive and have a faster response than dynamic microphones.  Small-diaphragm or “pencil” condensers can work well too, but may have less bass response.

As for mic placement, the standard placement would be to set the mic in front your ukulele’s soundhole, about 6-18 inches out.  If the sound is too bright, try placing it “off-axis” – have it pointing slightly to the side.

You can also try a stereo mic technique, with two microphones, using a package like the Audio-Technica AT2041SP pack.  Put one microphone in front of the soundhole, and point the other at the fretboard.  Mix the sounds together.  You could also try one mic near the player’s ear, or both mic’s together in an X pattern.

Experimentation is the essence of recording – try lots of different mics, placements, and settings until you get the best sound!