How To Record Acoustic Guitar With the KU4

Audio Samples and Techniques Using the AEA KU4

Extensive top-end clarity and a supercardioid polar pattern make the KU4 a popular choice to capture the sound of an acoustic guitar. The KU4 is the brightest AEA mic in the line and performs well across any genre and in almost any recording environment.

Ribbon Mics
Close Miking

To effectively record a solo acoustic guitar, we recommend positioning the KU4 roughly 4 to 18 inches from the instrument and facing it towards the 12th fret or where the neck meets the body. Mitigate low-end response by moving the mic closer or farther from the guitar’s sound hole.

Acoustic guitar is a relatively difficult source to record, as its sound is produced from string vibration as well as sound hole resonance. The balanced response of the KU4 from as far as 16 inches away makes it effortless to effectively capture all tonal aspects of an acoustic guitar.

The near-field design of the KU4 allows it to be positioned quite near the source, similar to a conventional dynamic microphone. Internal mechanics roll-off the low end of a signal before it reaches the ribbon, yielding balanced response between 2 and 18 inches from the source. The ribbon within the KU4 is well protected by precision fabric and is virtually impervious to loud volumes.

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