How to Choose Microphones for Immersive Audio Recording

by Justin Gray

Who is Justin Gray?

Justin Gray is an award-winning engineer, producer and artist based in Toronto, Canada. Over the past decade, he has become a leading figure in immersive audio music production, working primarily in Dolby Atmos. As a mix and mastering engineer, Justin collaborates with artists worldwide across diverse genres and specializes in spatial remixing pop music productions in immersive formats. He is also on faculty at Humber College in Toronto, where he teaches the next generation of audio professionals.

A Passion for Immersive Audio

Justin’s journey into immersive audio began in 2015, driven by his fascination with its creative potential. Since then, he has pioneered techniques that bridge the gap between technical precision and artistic intent. Whether remixing pop tracks or composing original music, Justin’s approach involves carefully designing spatial elements to create compelling and immersive listening experiences.

"Immersed”: Music composed, recorded and produced for Immersive Audio

Justin’s latest project, “Immersed”, is an album of original music he composed specifically for immersive audio. The album features 38 musicians from around the world and was recorded over the span of 40 days in one of Toronto’s finest studios. Specifically conceived to come to life in the Dolby Atmos format, this project is a testament to Justin’s dedication to immersive music production.

The recording process involved more than 500 audio tracks per song, layered with a combination of close microphones and ambient captures designed specifically for immersive playback. Justin relied heavily on SCHOEPS’ Colette series microphonesto achieve the clarity, precision, and low noise floor required for such a demanding production. This level of detail ensured that every element, from a solo instrument to a full ensemble, was captured with spatial accuracy.

Microphone Technology and Techniques

For this project, Justin employed a versatile array of SCHOEPS microphones, including:

  • MK 41 capsules for close mic applications, such as isolating specific instruments like hi-hats.
  • MK 2 omni-directional capsules for piano and additional ambient recording.
  • 7+4 channel immersive array featuring 11 SCHOEPS MK 4 capsules microphones to capture spatial reflections and depth.
  • 9+6 channel immersive array featuring 15 SCHOEPS MK 4 capsules microphones to capture hall ambience during immersive “re-amping” session

The centrepiece of Justin’s setup was a 7+4 array placed in the middle of the recording space, allowing musicians to interact naturally with the immersive field. This array provided a consistent spatial framework, ensuring seamless integration of each layer into the final mix.

Justin emphasizes that microphone placement was integral to the project’s success: “Every single day and every layer of that music was tracked with specific immersive intent. We arranged the microphones in ways that allow each performance to sit naturally in the mix, where it was intended in the spatial orchestration. This approach was meant to harness the power of a classical/acoustic approaches to immersive capture, in a pop/film style production with overdubs and isolated performances.”

 

Why SCHOEPS?

Justin’s choice to rely on SCHOEPS microphones stems from their ability to deliver unparalleled precision and clarity. He notes, “What I expect from SCHOEPS microphones and what they always deliver, is if I just place it properly and the musician is doing their job and performing beautifully, everything is there afterwards.”

This consistency was particularly vital for a project involving over 500 layered tracks. The microphones’ low noise floor and absence of harmonic distortion ensured that even densely layered recordings maintained their sonic integrity.

Justin also highlights their adaptability across various instruments and applications, from close miking to capturing natural room acoustics. “The whole core of the sound of the record is these microphones being placed to do their job of capturing close sounds and reflections,” he explains.

Conclusion

Justin Gray’s work exemplifies how SCHOEPS microphones can elevate immersive audio projects, bridging the gap between technical demands and creative expression. With their exceptional clarity, low noise floor, and versatility, SCHOEPS microphones were instrumental in capturing the intricate layers and spatial details of Justin’s forthcoming album, “Immersed.”

For Justin, the question is simple: “Why would I not use a SCHOEPS in this case?” Whether for seasoned professionals or aspiring engineers, Justin’s approach serves as an inspiring example of how the right tools and techniques can transform ambitious ideas into breathtaking sonic realities.

Learn more about Justin Gray: https://immersivemastering.com/
Find out more about the “Immersed” project: http://www.justingraysound.com/Immersed

Die vorgestellten Produkte

MK 2

Microphone capsule

MK 4

MICROPHONE CAPSULE

MK 41

MICROPHONE CAPSULE

CMC 6

MICROPHONE AMPLIFIER