Can I use my existing mics to record in surround?
Yes you can. There are a number of techniques that work very well. Without getting too involved, the IRT Cross utilizes 4 mics in a square and is basically back-to-back ORTF stereo. Double MS utilizes the basic stereo MS configuration with a rear facing cardioid. The Hamasaki Square is similar to the IRT Cross except it utilizes mics with a figure 8 pattern instead of cardioids. Then there’s always the tried and true Decca Tree. Check the Books/DVD section for more detail. I have been experimenting with a “hallo” consisting of 5 DPA (formerly B&K) 4061 miniature microphones that has worked surprisingly well (see my article on surround drum miking in issue #4 – NAB 99 of Surround Professional magazine).
