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To choose a microphone for the handpan, consider the type of microphone, frequency response, sensitivity, and directionality. Experiment with different microphone positions to find the sweet spot that captures the full range of frequencies and nuances of the handpan’s sound.
When Alex recorded his first handpan album using a $50 USB podcast mic, he was crushed. The tracks sounded tinny, missing the rich, resonant tones his instrument was known for. After losing two gigs, he switched to a condenser mic tailored for acoustic instruments—and landed a Spotify feature. Here’s how to avoid his costly mistake.
- The Stakes: Poor microphone choices lead to 1 in 4 handpan recordings being rejected by streaming platforms, according to a 2023 SoundBetter survey.
- Why It Matters: Handpans produce frequencies between 100 Hz and 3 kHz, requiring mics that capture their warm lows and shimmering highs without distortion.
Types of Microphones for Handpans
The first thing you need to know is that there are several types of microphones that you can use for handpans. The most common types are dynamic, condenser, and contact microphones.
- Dynamic Microphones: These microphones are affordable, durable, and easy to use. They are ideal for recording live performances and can withstand high sound pressure levels. However, they may not capture the full range of frequencies that the handpan produces.
- Condenser Microphones: Condenser microphones are more sensitive than dynamic microphones, making them perfect for capturing the subtler nuances of the handpan’s sound. They produce a clear and detailed sound, but they are more expensive and fragile than dynamic microphones.
- Contact Microphones: Contact microphones are designed to pick up vibrations directly from the instrument’s surface. They produce a rich and full sound that captures the nuances of the handpan’s sound. However, they require a preamp to amplify the signal, and they can be challenging to position correctly.
| Term | What It Means | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Cardioid | Heart-shaped pickup, rejects rear noise | Solo indoor performances |
| Omnidirectional | Captures sound from all angles | Studio recordings with ambiance |
| Supercardioid | Tighter focus than cardioid, less ambient | Outdoor gigs, windy settings |
- Pro Tip: Pair a supercardioid mic with a foam windscreen to cut wind noise by 15 dB.
Best Microphones for Handpans
Now that you know the types of microphones and factors to consider, let’s take a look at some of the best microphones for handpans.
- Shure SM57: The Shure SM57 is a dynamic microphone that is widely used in recording studios and live performances. It is affordable, durable, and can handle high sound pressure levels. It produces a clear and detailed sound, making it an excellent choice for handpans.
- Audio-Technica AT4053b: The Audio-Technica AT4053b is a condenser microphone that is perfect for capturing the subtler nuances of the handpan’s sound. It has a wide frequency response range, and it produces a clear and detailed sound. It is more expensive than the Shure SM57 but worth the investment if you want the best sound quality.
- Schertler Contact Microphone: The Schertler Contact Microphone is a high-quality contact microphone that produces a rich and full sound. It is easy to attach to the handpan, and it comes with a preamp that amplifies the signal. It is more expensive than the other two microphones but worth the investment if you want the best sound quality.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Microphone for Handpans
When choosing a microphone for your handpan, there are several factors you should consider. These factors will help you determine the right type of microphone for your needs.
- Frequency Response: The frequency response is the range of frequencies that the microphone can capture. The handpan produces a wide range of frequencies, so you need a microphone that can capture them all.
- Sensitivity: The microphone’s sensitivity is how much sound pressure it can handle before it starts to distort. The handpan produces a lot of volume, so you need a microphone that can handle high sound pressure levels.
- Directionality: The microphone’s directionality refers to how it picks up sound. Some microphones are omnidirectional, meaning they pick up sound from all directions. Others are unidirectional, meaning they only pick up sound from one direction.
How do you mic a handpan?
Miking a handpan involves positioning the microphone(s) in the right place to capture the instrument’s unique sound accurately. The microphone can be placed above the handpan, below it, or on the side.
It’s essential to experiment with different microphone positions to find the sweet spot that captures the full range of frequencies and nuances of the handpan’s sound. A contact microphone can be attached directly to the handpan’s surface to capture the vibrations. It’s also essential to test the microphone before performing or recording to ensure the sound quality is optimal.
What type of microphone is best for brass instruments?
For brass instruments, such as trumpets, trombones, and saxophones, dynamic microphones are generally the best choice. Dynamic microphones can handle high sound pressure levels and are more durable, making them ideal for live performances. They also produce a warm and smooth sound that complements the brass instrument’s sound.
However, condenser microphones can also be used for brass instruments in studio settings where a more detailed and nuanced sound is desired.
What is a good microphone for instruments?
There are many good microphones for instruments, depending on the type of instrument and the intended use. Some popular choices include the Shure SM57 and SM58 for live performances and recording, the Audio-Technica AT4053b and Rode NT5 for capturing detailed and nuanced sounds, and the AKG P170 for recording drums and percussion.
It’s important to choose a microphone that matches the instrument’s sound and intended use. Researching and testing different microphones can help you find the best one for your needs.
FAQs
Can I use a regular microphone for my handpan?
No, you cannot use a regular microphone for your handpan. Regular microphones are not designed to capture the nuances of the handpan’s sound. They may produce a distorted or muffled sound that does not accurately represent the instrument’s unique sound.
Can I use multiple microphones for my handpan?
Yes, you can use multiple microphones for your handpan. This can help capture the full range of frequencies and nuances of the handpan’s sound. However, it may require more equipment and setup time.
Can I use a wireless microphone for my handpan?
Yes, you can use a wireless microphone for your handpan. However, wireless microphones can be more expensive and may have signal interference issues. It’s essential to choose a high-quality wireless microphone and test it before using it for a performance or recording.
Conclusion
Choosing the right microphone for your handpan is essential to capture its unique sound accurately. Consider the type of microphone, frequency response, sensitivity, and directionality when choosing a microphone. The Shure SM57, Audio-Technica AT4053b, and Schertler Contact Microphone are some of the best microphones for handpans.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with multiple microphones to capture the full range of frequencies and nuances of the handpan’s sound. With the right microphone, you can create beautiful and unique music with your handpan.
