How to mic the ukulele

As is the case with all acoustic instruments, recording a ukulele is always a compromise between getting the full timbre of the instrument and isolation from other instruments or unwanted reverberation.

Omnidirectional Ukulele Microphones

If there are good acoustics and no other disturbing sound sources, a precise and highly detailed omni mic would be ideal.

The 4041-SP Large Diaphragm or 4006A Omnidirectional Microphone will ensure that you do not lose any vital information. Try aiming an omni at the sweetspot: this position will give you a good blend of strings and fingers.

Cardioid Ukulele Microphones

If more isolation is needed, one or two cardioids or wide cardioids is a good solution. Two cardioid mics can be placed in XY configuration at the sweet spot.

Miniature Omnidirectional Microphones for Ukulele

Miniature omnis like the IMK4061 Instrument Microphone Kit offer a wide variety of placement possibilities and many live situations could benefit from close-miking with a DPA Miniature Microphone, especially if the monitor level is not too high.

4099 Instrument Microphones for Ukulele

Offering lots of gain before feedback while retaining the clear and transparent DPA signature sound, the miniature supercardioid 4099 Instrument Microphone is the perfect choice for all live applications.

The 4099V for violin and mandolin fits instruments with a body depth between 35 mm (1.4 in) and 55 mm (2.1 in).

The 4099G for guitar and dobro fits instruments with a body depth between 35 mm (1.4 in) and 122 mm (4.8 in).