Re: Acoustic question

[tom ball <havaball@xxxxxxx>]

A few possibilities for acoustic miking tone at gigs:

1) Turn up the mic's volume (but then you'll need to back off a bit 
while singing.)

2) Adjust the EQ so the mic has less highs, more lows, and more 
reverb.  (If you have a choice of reverb type, you might try 
'plate.')  Don't mess with digital delay -- IMHO the stuff sucks, 
although your mileage may vary.  :)

3) Try playing from about six inches off the mic, slightly off 
center, and use a bit more exaggerated movements with the hands.

4) Work on the hand cup and throat vibrato until you want to stick 
your head in the oven.

5) Consider changing the key of the song to one which features a 
lower-keyed harp.  (F's and F#'s are going to sound strident no 
matter what you do...)

6) Take a deep breath, pop a cold Heineken and relax.  Seriously! 
The more relaxed you are, the better tone (and fluidity) you'll 
have...

cheers and all best wishes,

Tom Ball
Santa Babs