The BM 800, a popular and versatile condenser microphone, is a favorite among musicians, podcasters, and content creators. With its high-quality audio output and versatility, it’s no wonder why many enthusiasts want to know how to record with this amazing device. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of recording with the BM 800, covering the essential gear, software, and techniques you need to capture every note.
Getting Started: Essential Gear and Software
Before we dive into the recording process, let’s cover the essential gear and software you’ll need to get started.
The BM 800 Microphone
The BM 800 is a condenser microphone, which means it’s more sensitive than dynamic microphones and can capture a wider range of frequencies. This makes it perfect for capturing the nuances of vocals, acoustic instruments, and even ambient sounds. The BM 800 is a side-address microphone, meaning you’ll need to speak or sing into the side of the mic, rather than directly into the top.
Audio Interface or Mixer
To connect your BM 800 to your computer, you’ll need an audio interface or mixer. An audio interface is a device that converts analog audio signals into digital signals that your computer can understand. A mixer, on the other hand, allows you to connect multiple microphones and instruments, and then mix and adjust the audio signals before sending them to your computer. Popular audio interfaces for beginners include the Focusrite Scarlett series and the PreSonus AudioBox series.
Studio Monitors and Headphones
Good studio monitors and headphones are essential for producing high-quality audio. Studio monitors allow you to listen back to your recordings in real-time, while headphones enable you to focus on your performance without distractions. Look for monitors and headphones with flat frequency responses, as these will provide an accurate representation of your audio.
Recording Software
To record with the BM 800, you’ll need recording software that can handle high-quality audio. Popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) for beginners include Audacity (free), GarageBand (for Mac), and Reaper. These software options offer user-friendly interfaces and a range of features to help you edit and mix your recordings.
Setting Up Your BM 800 for Recording
Now that you have your essential gear and software, let’s set up your BM 800 for recording.
Choosing the Right Polar Pattern
The BM 800 offers three polar patterns: cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional. The cardioid pattern is the most commonly used, as it provides a focused pickup area and reduces background noise. The supercardioid pattern is similar, but provides a slightly tighter pickup area, making it ideal for loud sources. The omnidirectional pattern, on the other hand, picks up sound from all directions, making it perfect for capturing ambient sounds or group vocals.
Setting the Gain
The gain control allows you to adjust the sensitivity of your BM 800. If you’re recording vocals or quiet instruments, you’ll want to set the gain to around 30-40 dB. For louder sources, such as drums or guitar amps, you’ll want to set the gain lower, around 10-20 dB.
Plugging in and Connecting
Connect your BM 800 to your audio interface or mixer using an XLR cable. Make sure to plug in the correct cable, as the BM 800 uses a 3-pin XLR connector. If you’re using a mixer, you may need to adjust the gain and EQ settings on the mixer before sending the signal to your computer.
Recording Techniques for the BM 800
Now that you’re all set up, let’s dive into some recording techniques to get the best out of your BM 800.
Recording Vocals
When recording vocals with the BM 800, position the microphone about 6-8 inches away from your mouth. Experiment with different microphone positions and angles to find the sweet spot that suits your voice. Remember to keep the microphone off-axis, as this will help reduce plosives and mouth noises.
Recording Acoustic Instruments
For acoustic instruments, such as guitars or violins, position the BM 800 about 6-12 inches away from the sound source. Experiment with different microphone positions and angles to capture the desired tone. You may want to try recording with the microphone closer to the instrument’s sound hole or farther away to capture more room ambiance.
Recording Drums
When recording drums, you’ll want to use a combination of microphones to capture the full range of frequencies. Position the BM 800 about 6-12 inches away from the snare drum, and use a dynamic microphone, such as the Shure SM57, to capture the kick drum. You can also use the BM 800 to capture ambient room sounds or overheads.
Editing and Mixing Your Recordings
Once you’ve recorded your tracks, it’s time to edit and mix your recordings.
Basic Editing Techniques
In your recording software, you can use basic editing techniques, such as cutting, copying, and pasting, to remove mistakes or unwanted sounds. You can also use the “undo” feature to experiment with different editing techniques without affecting your original recording.
EQ and Compression
EQ (equalization) allows you to boost or cut specific frequencies in your recording. Compression reduces the dynamic range of your recording, bringing up the quiet parts and bringing down the loud parts. These effects can help balance your mix and create a more polished sound.
Adding Effects and Plug-ins
Many recording software options offer a range of built-in effects and plug-ins, such as reverb, delay, and distortion. These can add depth and character to your recordings, but be careful not to overdo it, as too many effects can muddy your mix.
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best Out of Your BM 800
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you get the best out of your BM 800:
Invest in a Pop Filter
A pop filter can help reduce plosives and mouth noises when recording vocals. You can buy a commercial pop filter or make your own using a simple DIY technique.
Use a Windscreen
A windscreen can help reduce wind noise and plosives when recording outdoors or in noisy environments.
Experiment with Mic Placement
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different microphone placements and angles to find the perfect sound for your recording.
Record in a Good Room
The room you record in can affect the quality of your recording. Look for rooms with minimal echo and reverberation, and consider using acoustic treatment, such as soundproofing panels, to improve the sound quality.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to capturing high-quality audio with your BM 800. Happy recording!
What is the BM 800 and how does it work?
The BM 800 is a professional-grade condenser microphone designed for studio and live recording applications. It works by capturing sound waves through its condenser capsule, which converts the vibrations into electrical signals that can be amplified and recorded. The BM 800 is known for its clear and detailed sound reproduction, making it a popular choice among musicians, podcasters, and YouTubers.
The BM 800 is a side-address microphone, meaning that it picks up sound from the side rather than the front. This design allows for a more focused pickup pattern, reducing ambient noise and allowing for a more intimate and detailed sound. Additionally, the BM 800 has a range of frequency response from 30 Hz to 20 kHz, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications.
What types of recording is the BM 800 best suited for?
The BM 800 is best suited for a variety of recording applications, including vocals, acoustic instruments, and orchestral recordings. Its clear and detailed sound reproduction makes it an excellent choice for capturing subtle nuances in sound. Additionally, the BM 800 is also suitable for podcasting, voice-overs, and online conference calls, thanks to its ability to pick up the slightest details in spoken word.
In terms of specific recording scenarios, the BM 800 excels at capturing the warmth and intimacy of acoustic instruments such as guitars, pianos, and strings. It’s also great for recording vocals, particularly for genres such as jazz, classical, and folk, where a clear and detailed sound is essential.
What kind of equipment do I need to use with the BM 800?
To get started with the BM 800, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. Firstly, you’ll need a microphone stand to position the mic correctly. You’ll also need an XLR cable to connect the BM 800 to your recording device, such as an audio interface or mixing console. Additionally, you may want to invest in a pop filter to reduce plosives and wind noise, and a shock mount to reduce vibrations and mechanical noise.
In terms of recording software, the BM 800 is compatible with most digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live. You’ll also need a computer or recording device with an XLR input to connect the BM 800. If you’re new to recording, you may want to consider investing in a beginner-friendly audio interface or recording bundle that includes the necessary equipment and software.
How do I set up the BM 800 for optimal recording?
To set up the BM 800 for optimal recording, start by positioning the mic correctly. The BM 800 is a side-address microphone, so position it at a 90-degree angle to the sound source, about 6-8 inches away. Experiment with different mic placement to find the sweet spot for your specific recording application. You may also want to adjust the mic stand to achieve the optimal height and angle.
In terms of gain staging, start by setting the gain on your recording device to around 60-70 dB. This will give you a healthy signal-to-noise ratio and allow for a good amount of headroom for further gain adjustment. You may also want to engage the built-in low-cut filter to reduce rumble and ambient noise.
Can I use the BM 800 for live performances?
Yes, the BM 800 can be used for live performances, although it’s primarily designed for studio recording. The BM 800 is a condenser microphone, which means it’s more sensitive to sound and requires a separate power source, such as phantom power, to operate. However, many live sound mixing consoles and portable PA systems can provide phantom power, making it possible to use the BM 800 on stage.
If you plan to use the BM 800 for live performances, make sure to choose the right cables and adapters, and consider investing in a windscreen or pop filter to reduce wind noise and plosives. Additionally, you may want to use a shock mount to reduce vibrations and mechanical noise.
How do I maintain and care for the BM 800?
To maintain and care for the BM 800, start by handling it with care. Avoid touching the microphone capsule or grill, as oils from your skin can damage the sensitive components. When not in use, store the BM 800 in a protective case or mic clip to prevent damage.
Regular cleaning is also essential to maintain the BM 800’s performance. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the microphone and cable, and avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products. If you need to remove stubborn dirt or stains, use a gentle cleaning solution specifically designed for microphones.
What kind of warranty and support comes with the BM 800?
The BM 800 typically comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects and malfunctions for a certain period of time, usually one to three years. Be sure to check the specific warranty terms and conditions when purchasing the microphone. Additionally, the manufacturer may offer customer support and resources, such as user manuals, FAQs, and technical support contacts.
If you encounter any issues with the BM 800, start by consulting the user manual and online resources. If you’re still having trouble, contact the manufacturer’s customer support team for assistance. They can help diagnose the problem and provide repair or replacement options as needed.