Piano
Underneath a piano, you will find a stringed instrument. This means that the recording principles which can be applied to guitars for example, can be used when recording a piano. Like other stringed instruments, there is no "one way" method of recording and the way in which you use the microphones depends on the type of piano, type of room and above all, the style of music.
"Miking a piano is never easy; I have found it to be the most frustrating, yet rewarding instrument to work with." Hugh Robjohns - SOS
Before working with the piano, the initial step is to ensure the strings are in tune. Typically, this should be done every 8 weeks or so. The piano is a very difficult instrument to keep in tune, so this is usually done professionally.
A common method of recording the piano is placing a stero pair above the hammers. The X/Y technique can be used but as is always the case, experimentation leads to the sound you want.
Position A:
This is the most common method for recording a piano. It gives an even balance of the high and low strings when placed 6" above the hammers. At this position, the sound is quite bright with lots of attack. This is typically used for a fairly 'modern' sound as it gives a very good stereo representation.
Position B:
This method is similar to when recording acoustic guitars, in that the use of the bridge determines the tone of the sound. If the microphone is placed closer to the bridge, the tone is quite harsh which means that this method is only ever used in conjunction with other methods.
Position C:
This position utilises the sound board of the piano which means that this method is usually used to prevent sound spillage from other instruments. The sound which can be achieved will not be as bright as position A or B but in situations where the spillage is too great, it may be the only option. To reduce the dullness of the signal, shelving eq can be used to make the sound more natural.
Position D:
This is the most basic method of recording this instrument as it picks up the sound as the human ear would. The lid of the piano reflects the sound from the strings, which is then picked up by the microphone. This has been the traditional method for recording pianos for many years and it still used today.