leenia,

Although I have a little experience with reel to reel (the time spent in the pub doesn't count!) the very basics of recording apply no matter what the recording device is

1) all recording devices make external noise - or at least the operators do - which is why the pros stick all that stuff in another room! :-) so you need to try and distance the gadget acoustically from the source being recorded. that a very general statement - on purpose...

2) while the actual mics WILL affect the sound, and WHERE they are placed does also, if you are restricted by funds or whatever, keep trying with what you have for the best you can get - make a note of it and stick to that.

3) you can get mics with a 'long throw' or intended to be used at a distance and ignore much other ambient sound - these are usually called 'unidirectional' mics - other mices are intended for 'close up' use. If the instrument is best sounding form a distance, consider one of these, but they do intentionally have a narrow band or 'cone', so you may in fact lose some input from other parts of the instrument.

4) most recording devices make 'internal noise' eg reel to reel tapes can have hiss - it helps to use a fairly new tape or one wiped properly.

5) phones, doorbells, other residents in the house, cats, etc. can 'interfere'.... :-)

Keep trying things - and it can help if you make brief written notes - eg 3 ft - 45 deg above to left - old battered brown mic - input level set at 3, treble cut -2 (etc) - bathroom tub stuffed with towels, etc...

This way if you chance on something that works well, you have some notes to start with in 3 years time... :-)

Remember - Don't Fret!

oh... ah...   :-E|