Photo by Jeffery Luhn
 

How Slim Attaches His Harmonica Mic For Live Use

I've been asked about this a few times, so here's my live mic'ing setup for chromatic harmonica (as of May, 2022).

Due to shoulder and back issues, I no longer cup the harmonica with my hands when playing live, so I made a crude mic cover that produces a similar effect.

Note that the velcro attached to the Kongsheng Lyra Gold in these pictures uses sticky-back velcro, but I don't apply it directly to the harmonica. Instead I first apply some residue-free masking tape (can be easily removed without leaving a bunch of gunk behind) distributed by Hosa.

Also note that the condenser mic I'm using (Audix M1250B) requires a preamp that supports phantom power.


Lyra Gold, mic-ready, top view


Lyra Gold, mic-ready, back view


The Lyra Gold, mic-ready, bottom view


This is the Audix M1250B pencil condenser mic wrapped with foam (to cut down on contact vibration from the slide action), duct tape, and a bit of velcro.


mic cover, inside view


mic cover, outside


Mic attached to the harmonica


Fully assembled: mic attached with cover