when it just sounded like the piano !”
First put into action in 1972 , this magnetic pickup system is a great way to bring together the best of both worlds and allow for a nearly feedback-free piano signal that sounds good . While more expensive than piezo pickup systems and requiring a bit more work on the installation , they aren ’ t expensive when compared to the cost of a piano itself . For under a couple thousand dollars , it is possible to purchase and install a Helpinstall system . The company offers a number of systems for both grand pianos and uprights — check them out at http :// www . helpinstill . com .
I ’ ve had a chance to use their rigs on pianos in different environments . For more contemporary ‘ rock ’ and ‘ pop ’ piano sounds , they are a wonderful choice . If you are working at a church that leans more to the traditional ‘ classical ’ side of things , the sound may be a bit too direct and I ’ d likely opt for an open-air microphone or two instead .
WRAPPING IT UP : Between the piezo and electromagnetic options , an array of microphone setups , and the ability to mix and match approaches — just about every acoustic piano application you can imagine should be covered . I don ’ t work for any of the companies that we ’ ve highlighted in these articles , but I have used their products and had good results . There are many other companies that make great products with similar approaches to solving the problem of amplifying acoustic pianos . Check with your local dealer or your favorite go-to online music retailer and see what they recommend . The good news is that there are proven techniques for taming the 88-key beast and weaving a well-rounded , feedback-free piano tone into your mix . Hit me up on LinkedIn if you have other suggestions or tips and tricks around techniques that work well for you . Happy mixing !
Jeff Hawley A 20-year music industry veteran — equally at ease behind the console , playing bass guitar , leading marketing teams or designing award-winning audio products . He currently heads up the marketing for Allen & Heath in the US .
106 September 2023 Subscribe for Free ...