We recently wrote this article for AMS on the most popular types of microphones. Microphones are like paint brushes. You need different tools for different jobs. The technical make-up of each type of microphone and the technology it uses to translate your voice or instrument varies greatly. Learn the basics of microphone types, polar patterns and more. This will help you craft the sound you seek.

In this article we talk about tips for recording guitars, bass, drums and vocals. Learn about the types of microphones you'll need, different recording techniques, and how to use the room to get the best sound.

In this article we explain the basic science behind recording with a microphone. Key terms are explored as well as techniques for using mics. You'll also find info on stereo recording techniques such as XY, A/B, and ORTF. 

From radio stations, to sports announcers, to bands, the Mic Mute Family offers microphone switching solutions. Check out these push to talk, push to mute, and latching push-on/ push-off boxes from Whirlwind. They're American-made and come with a 3-year warranty.

TrainingSnacks was present at the NAMM convention in Anaheim, CA and found some real intriguing gear! Here's a small sampling of some of the cool stuff such as the Akai MPC-X, Dave Smith/Pioneer SP-16, and Genelec 1237 monitors.

Attention audiophiles! If you've ever wanted to be a fly on the wall during famous recording sessions, this is your chance.  The new podcast "Gear Club" which can also be found on Soundcloud and the Gear-Club website, is full of funny & interesting stories about recording techniques and gear.

Now you can listen to legendary producer/engineers John Agnello (Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr., Kurt Vile, Aerosmith) and Stewart Lerman (Sharon Van Etten, Shawn Colvin, Bob Dylan, Boardwark Empire)  wax poetic about studio gear. These guys have a great time together but keep it focused on everything from monitoring to obsolete gear to their favorite microphones. 

In the first episode, Stewart & John interview legendary recording engineeer, Jay Messsina (Aerosmith, Miles Davis, Cheap Trick).

Check out the embedded audio here & be sure to subscribe and follow them.
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We just wrote this guide for podcasters which can be found on the AmericanMusical FB page here.

You'll learn the following:
1. The best type of microphones for podcasting.
2. How to place your microphone for optimal recording.
3. Using a pop filter to ensure your recording is free of plosives.
4. How to deal with reflections.
5. Microphone techniques.

The TrainingSnacks Recording Microphone Buyer's Guide is a great resource that explains how different types of microphones capture sound. Learn the differences between dynamic, condenser, and ribbon mics as well as different polar patterns.

Portable recorders are an awesome tool for musicians, professionals, and students. They are the perfect way to capture your ideas when inspiration strikes, in high fidelity.
​Click here to read the ultimate handheld recorder buyer's guide, written by Training Snacks!