On the go vocal tips

[Genius Gone Insane]

I have to do vocals at the singer's house in a couple days. I don't do this often (usually at my place or a studio). Any advice on what to do about the room? I have a bunch of 703 that I'm going to bring and basically surround the mic, but leave the area behind the singer untouched. I'm planning on using an AT4040 but will try out a 57. It's a male vocal. Thoughts?

 

[Mattayus]

I've had to do this at least twice in the last couple of years. Airing cupboard (or broom closet, since I don't think you have "airing cupboards" in US, no?) works great as a temp booth, especially ones full of freshly washed towels! Then obviously any of your own treatment you can bring along would be a bonus, but it just helps you control the acoustics a little better as it's a much smaller space, it's much easier to "dry up".

 

[Trevoire520]

To be honest it's well worth having some insulation behind him if possible. Any reflections coming from the wall behind him will get into the front of the mic where it's most sensitive.

 

[MondoLikeMetal]

Owens Corning makes pretty good sound board if you want to spend a couple of bucks. Affix those sb's to four 8' by 4' plywood pieces (or cut down to 6' by 4' to fit in your car/truck) and join the peices together with wingnut type hinges. Add a 5' by 5' roof with hole to send mic cable down and, "wa la" you have a portable sound booth that surrounds the singer.