I got a couple stupid drum questions....

[Executioner213]

1. Why not put a mic on all the cymbals, assuming you have the tracks to capture as such, instead of just OH's?

2. Is there any way to direct record a cymbal using something like those B-Band contact mics or something similar in theory?

I know the second question would, if possible, result in a stupidly expensive project but I'm just wondering, for the sake of asking, if either can or have been done.

 

[Exocaster]

1. Why not put a mic on all the cymbals, assuming you have the tracks to capture as such, instead of just OH's?

Phase and bleed issues, and a lot of the overall vibe of the kit coming from everything being picked up by the overheads. The latter isn't quite as much of an issue in metal, as many metal AEs try to keep as much out of the overheads as possible and go with close miced sounds only.

Short answer to the first question- because it's a giant mess. Some people do it anyway.

 

[Sinister Mephisto]

^Exactly right. However, if you're really good, you can get great results with it. I believe Andy mics cymbals in pairs, in addition to individual mics for ride/china/hat/whatever, and still uses overheads and room mics.

 

[hoehlentroll]

2. Is there any way to direct record a cymbal using something like those B-Band contact mics or something similar in theory?

I guess you trying to trigger with samples? better use an e-drum set. cheaper, less effort.

 

[Let it burn...]

i ever saw a pic of metallica in the studio with a bazillion mics on the drum, probably just for show, but it was sick nonetheless.

 

[FalseMessiah Mike]

1. Why not put a mic on all the cymbals, assuming you have the tracks to capture as such, instead of just OH's?

2. Is there any way to direct record a cymbal using something like those B-Band contact mics or something similar in theory?

I know the second question would, if possible, result in a stupidly expensive project but I'm just wondering, for the sake of asking, if either can or have been done.

I just read in the God Forbid studio diary for their new album that Eric Rachel (Trax East studio in South River, NJ) is giving each individual cymbal it’s own microphone. The blog doesn't mention if those individual cymbal microphones were used in conjunction with a pair of overheads. But anyway I guess if you spend the time finding the best microphone positions to minimisise phase and bleeding issues it can be done.