What is the best way to mic a drumset with only 2 mics?

Question

I know the best way yot mic a set is to mic everything. But the thing is that my recorder can only record to lines at once. I have tryed a couple of ways but it sounds like it could be better. Well if anyone has any tips or an answer please post it. Thanks ALOT!

Answer 1

by 'mic everything', i think you mean the overhead technique. (this is where you put two mics over top of the drum, pointing in toward the drummer, about arms reach away from the drummer.) if not, then 4 suggestions:

1) get a better set up (ie a mixing board)
2) get digital drums (use only one line, maybe put down the bass line at the same time)
3)settle for what you can do (esp. if you are doing punk or grunge)
4) record each drum separately, (don't forget the metronome), and either
a) get it onto your computer- (a program called audacity is worth looking into... it is FREE and can keep up with other, more expensive software.
b) give the tracks to someone who can edit it all together for you. someone familiar with what you have..

...

i'm goin' to assume one of 2 things
1- you are using tape... for that you get kudos (and a warmer sound)
2- you have a digital setup and you have not learned to bounce yet ..

if #2 is the case, then just record 2 of the drums on one track (don't forget the metronome) , and add the others later.

...........

another option... get the book "home recording for dummies" .. those books really aren't for dummies.. or, as a matter of fact, since drum recording is the most tedious, i would also suggest 'drum recording for dummies"

good luck