Microphones for trumpets are small and clip on the instrument’s ends opposite the mouthpiece. These are some of the tiniest instrument microphones on the market. Because most of these microphones are wireless, they allow the trumpeter to move around while performing. The dynamic range of a trumpet is greater than that of most other instruments. There are a few different types of trumpet microphones available.
The buyer should select trumpet microphones based on their intended use. For performance or recording, musicians use trumpet microphones. While recording microphones can be quite costly, they can be used for a variety of instruments other than trumpets.
Recording microphones for trumpets are typically stand-alone microphones that do not attach to the instrument. For recording trumpets, stereo condenser microphones are a viable option. Rooms with a lot of reverb can work really well with a trumpet recording. Cardioid microphones are an excellent choice for recording trumpet, but they can be quite costly.
Professional trumpeters most commonly use specialized microphones with clips for live performances. These trumpet microphones can also be used with saxophones, trombones, and a variety of other brass instruments. These clip mics save stage space avoiding the use of large boom mic stands, which are ideal for big bands with a lot of horn players. It also allows horn sections to perform physical, synchronized moves, as seen in many big show bands’ routines.
Professional trumpet players also use standard instrument microphones. These could be the same microphones that are used for guitars or drums. Each requires a microphone stand and an XLR plug-in, limiting the trumpeter’s mobility. If the trumpeter also sings in the band, the sound engineer may use a separate vocal mic to make the mix easier. These trumpet microphones are significantly less expensive and more widely available online and in stores.
On trumpets, musicians can use effects pedals to enhance and diversify the sound. These are connected in the same way that a guitar pedal board is, except they go straight through the microphone. Some sound engineers prefer to use effects after the trumpet has been recorded, while others prefer to use them before the trumpet has been recorded. The majority of trumpeters who use effects pedals have a favorite sound.
A vocal mic can be used as a trumpet microphone if no other options are available. The cheapest way to find a microphone for a trumpet is to look at used microphones. This is an option that many younger bands or bands with limited budgets choose.