For the grand piano, like the upright, condenser mics with a wide frequency response are a good choice, but the different shape and layout of the instrument requires that it be miked differently. Having the lid is open, closed, or taken completely off will affect the tone of the instrument. It is worth experimenting with the lid in different positions, but as with any instrument, if the performer has a preference, it can be worth catering to them to encourage the best performance possible.

Below are a few options for miking a grand piano:

• X-Y or ORTF pair at distance of 4–6′.
• One mic over treble strings and one over bass strings at a distance of 1–2′.
• With the lid up, a mic or pair of mics can be placed just outside the lid facing either the strings (for brighter sound) or lid (for mellower, reflected sound) (see Fig. 145).
• An X-Y or ORTF pair placed above the pianist’s head.
• An X-Y pair placed 2–3″ over the point where the high and low strings cross. This delivers a punchier sound, so it is often favored for rock and similar styles of music (see Fig. 146).

See also How To Mic An Upright Piano.