How to Mic a Ukelele
The ukulele is an instrument in the lute family. Often referred to as a uke, the ukulele originated in Hawaii in the nineteenth century. A popular singer, Tiny Tim, made the instrument famous in the 1960s with his song "Tiptoe Through the Tulips." While the ukulele is primarily used as an acoustic instrument, adding amplification may become necessary, such as when playing to a large audience. This is done by a process adding a microphone to the instrument.
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Instructions
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Set up a microphone stand, attach the microphone to the stand by sliding it into the mic holder, and plug the microphone into an amplifier. For a ukulele, you probably need a small 20-watt amp, depending upon your amplification needs.
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Adjust the height of the mic stand by loosening the adjustment and raising or lowering it to the desired height. Some players prefer to sit on a stool, while others like to stand.
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Test the height of your stand with your instrument. The sound hole of your ukulele should be directly in front of the mic and centered with about five inches between the sound hole and mic. Adjust your amplifier volume as necessary to achieve the volume you want.
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Tips & Warnings
As a more mobile alternative to a microphone and mic stand, you can purchase a clip-on mic from a music store suitable for a ukulele or an acoustic guitar. These range in price, depending upon quality, and clip right on to the sound hole.
- Photo Credit tuning the ukulele image by Shirley Hirst from Fotolia.com
