At the SAE-Institute Frankfurt/M.(Germany), I am writing an essay about polar patterns of instruments and how to set up microphones. What are your suggested placement of mics for flute in three typical situations:  

1. Solo recording session in a studio
2. Close or spot miking of a flute, along with overall stereo miking of an ensemble for recording
3. Close miking for live concerts with a PA system.  

Which Crown mics and which polar patterns do you recommend for the applications above?
Matthias Dapr  

Reply: Here are some suggested starting placements and mics to try:  

1. Solo recording session in studio:
Flat-response cardioid condenser mic (like the Crown CM-700) about 18 inches (46 cm) away, aiming at the tone holes, either in front or overhead.
2. Close or spot miking of a flute, along with overall stereo miking of an ensemble for recording:
Same as above except put the mic about 12 inches (30 cm) away. If this picks up too much leakage from other instruments, use the suggestion in 3 below.
3. Close miking for live concerts with a PA system:
Miniature omnidirectional condenser microphone (like the Crown GLM-100) taped about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) above the flute body, midway between the mouthpiece and the tone holes.

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Because I play several different flutes (flute, altoflute, piccolo, bambooflutes) during a concert I am wondering of a headset is a good option. Can I get a good sound and find the right place with the Crown CM311 or 312?
Remko de Landmeter

Reply:The Crown CM-311A headworn microphone has been used to pick up flutes with very good results. Some people bend the earpiece to place the mic capsule slightly above and in front of the lip plate. Others position the mic capsule in front of the flute and two inches toward the player's right to avoid breath blasts.