David B It wasn't that difficult. Couple mics, my laptop, an audio interface, and I uploaded it right from that sanctuary. Maybe it's not considered properly done, but I think it accurately captures what that piano sounded like in that space at that time.
Exactly my words: you went to a special venue (church), spacious probably but I can see it was not optimally placed. On the other hand you record two close‑up mics only (it seems), so that is just that. Minor phasing I could hear but that is normal with such setup. Needs E] for sure (no, it won't destroy "the real sound" of the piano because it is not "the real sound" — it is the sound of the mics, each with its own EQ freq. resp. profile). Then, of course, more mics = more difficulties
David Lai to record well requires effort and skill
Exactly my words.
David Lai sample library makers know how to do it
Not my words.
I can write down here how it should be done (if mics are to be used) but it is pointless.
- you need a proper ac. treated studio with cable mics coming down from ceiling (6 mics) to the strings
4 close‑up + 2 (a stereo pair to capture studio reverb)
- remove the lid (completely), place the close‑up mics: low, mid, upper mid, highs to their resp. zones (trial error) → small record bits to test
- cover the iron frame with some fluffy sleeves, put some thick carpet(s) under the piano and smaller ones to cover studio floor
- adjust height and spacing for proper phase alignment (trial error) → small record bits to test
- check levels (soft to very loud playing) adjust height of stereo pair mics (phase align to close‑up, could\should be done also in post‑recording stage, mixing)
No mic stands (important) and the mic cables should be wrapped with some soft material sleeves (bands) to prevent strung "string" function. That's it.