Mike's Oud Forums

reverb and delay in recordings

Chris-Stephens - 11-30-2016 at 06:33 PM

What do you guys think about solo oud recordings that have a studio reverb and/or delay added? Like "Mesopotamia" by Munir Bashir. Do you think it adds value or takes away from the sound of the oud? I can't decide if I like it or not, on one hand it distracts from the sound i'm used to, just plain oud which is good enough if the player is quality but it is also kinda a nice effect and makes it a bit enhanced, even though it's a bit fake. What do you think?

ameer - 11-30-2016 at 08:30 PM

I generally prefer dry recordings or those with the slightest reverb. There is a trend towards overusing reverb and delay on oud and/or vocals. I think it sounds cheap and unprofessional

stos - 12-1-2016 at 02:17 AM

i agree with ameer

but saying this, to sound also a bit more natural, you have to add a little reverb on a recording to reproduce the 'air' of a room

ameer - 12-1-2016 at 08:13 AM

Alternatively, some older recordings back the mic awayso you can hear the room.

stos - 12-2-2016 at 01:48 AM

and there is a modern way you can do it if you are recording in a nice room :

you have a close mic near the instrument and and you will have also a mic a bit more far, recording the instruments and the air of the room.

so you have a natural reverb, which most of the time more beautiful

Jody Stecher - 12-2-2016 at 07:39 AM

Quote: Originally posted by stos  
and there is a modern way you can do it if you are recording in a nice room :

you have a close mic near the instrument and and you will have also a mic a bit more far, recording the instruments and the air of the room.

so you have a natural reverb, which most of the time more beautiful


I have used this method. For solo music, such as solo oud, this is very effective. It's a pleasure to listen to.