“Von Berg” Vocal Recording

At the beginning of June 2017, I went to the studio with the German band "von Berg" to record the live instrumental for their upcoming EP release. Last week, we finally continued with the vocal overdubs for the four songs. Unlike we had recorded the instrumental parts in the Energiekreis Zuckerhut Studios, this time we tracked in my project studio. About 1 1/2 working days in total we used to record the singer's voice in a relaxed environment without time pressure or a big team/band members waiting for his performance.

Technical Details

Apollo Twin Interface

Neve 1073 preamp & U47 emulation (Apollo console)

Sphere L22 microphone and Halo reflection filter

The microphone which was used for this vocal session is a real market innovation. The so called Sphere L22 by Townsend Labs is a masterpiece of Chris Townsend (former key developer of i. a. Eleven guitar amplifier modelling at Avid) and Erik Papp (former CEO and owner of Summit Audio).

The dual-capsule microphone Sphere L22, in combination with the Sphere system software (available in UAD, VST, AU, AAX Native plugin formats), is a microphone modelling system which allows you to get the rich sound of studio legends like Neumann U47, U67, U87, M49, AKG C12, Telefunken ELA M 251 and Sony C800G. Thanks to the three-dimensional sound capturing attributed to the two equipped capsules, this technology makes detailed emulations possible which are as accurately as possible to the original gear. Also, this microphone can be used for stereo recordings of e.g. acoustic guitars, choir or drums (as overhead mic).

The product is still not available for the public but stores like Thomann expect it in stock at the end of July 2017 - but this is not officially confirmed and often has been changed in the last months. First, proud supporters of the Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign - like me - received their lovely Sphere systems. I would like to think that at least at the end of the year it will be fully available for the Christmas shopping - close enough ;)

To reduce the room's reflection, I used the since March 2017 available Aston Microphones Halo Shadow which is by far the best reflection filter I have ever used - great job Aston Microphones!

Using my Universal Audio Apollo interface, I emulated the Neve 1073 preamp and sent the Sphere microphone emulation along with a bit of EMT 140 reverb to the singer's headphone mix.

Used Equipment

What Is Next?

When you read this article, I probably will be busy with editing the last vocal takes. After this, my future steps will be finalising the mixdown of the entire EP. A schedule for the mastering session is also in the making. As usual, I keep in touch with you and let you know whenever there are updates! ;)