[sportsfan]

When I record my acoustic, the bass strings consistently have a hollow, flat sound--for lack of a better description, like a note that hit a really low ceiling and immediately flattened with a thump. Live, the same notes have very good--to my ear, anyway--clarity and sustain (I mention this to rule out the instrument itself).

My setup is simple, as I'm just beginning: I'm using a Shure SM57 mic placed at 3-4 inches from the middle of the sound hole, a preamp, a Sound Blaster Audigy ZS 2 card, and Audacity. (I should note that the problem existed before I added the preamp.) I've tried different volume settings; the hollow thumping remains. I've left the software at the default settings.

Any clues are appreciated.

Thanks!

[sportsfan]

I found the answer: microphone. Thanks!

[Tekker]

Yep, the SM57 is not the best choice for acoustic guitar.

Condensor mics are the ideal choice for acoustics as they are much brighter and more detailed than dynamic mics like the SM57.

The Behringer B5 would a good option and it's $10 cheaper than the SM57.
http://www.zzounds.com/item--BEHB5

Condensor mics require phantom power so you'll need a mixer or a mic preamp that has phantom power, if you don't already have one.

-tkr

[sportsfan]

Thanks, Tekker. I also was advised about better mic placement and such, but, right: I was told by the same source that a condenser mic was the better option. In addition to the suggested Behringer, I'll check the Shure SM81 and a couple of others mentioned.