ABSTRACT
Reflections are essential to the sound of a string instrument. It is difficult to make an orchestral string instrument sound natural if it is recorded in a room that is too small or too dead. To pick up the most detailed, natural, and uncolored sound of violins and violas, flat condenser mics are the best choice, the presence peaks of highly characterful microphones can over-emphasize unflattering frequency ranges. Blues, jazz, and rock players may have pick-ups on their instruments. Wide-cardioid and omnidirectional mics will pick up the most natural instrument sound. Saxophones come in different shapes and sizes, the most common being the soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone. Even though the instruments have a shiny bell similar to brass instruments, sound does in fact come from the holes all over the instrument, depending on which holes are open or closed as the instrument is played.
