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How you should mic Tabla?

Tabla, is the most popular percussion instrument in India doesn't need any introduction. We hear its tone every day. The level of sophistication and tonal beauty it possesses has elevated the instrument to an unmatched status in the world of percussion.

Microphone techniques for Tabla

Today, tabla is an important part of Hindustani classical music as well as popular music in India. Tabla is a very dynamic percussion instrument. To catch the tonal beauty of Tabla, proper miking is required.

Mono Miking

With single microphone

Shure SM57 and SM58 are the most common microphones used for capturing Tabla. A good single percussion microphone positioned 3–4″ from the middle of 'daya' and 'baya' will be perfect to get best output.

Dual Miking

Two microphones, one each for 'daya' and 'baya' fitted on separate stands is also a recommended way to mike a tabla. It is advised to take care of phasing problems while employing this technique.


Stereo Miking


X/Y pairing of two microphones with cardioid polar pattern can be employed to capture the best stereo output from Tabla. Condenser microphones are preferred here. Precautions should be taken to avoid feedback.

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