Contact mic on a tree

Recording the vibrations of branches blowing in the wind via a contact mic.

[@lawrencedolton]

Fascinating sounds and off-kilter rhythm...nice idea!

[@domek.]

Thanks! There are so many interesting sounds to be found in nature with contact mics / hydrophones.

[@stuartchapman5171]

Great sounds to be had from trees. Put it on a tape (or not, just mimic the eq, noise and saturated wobble) and slow down to half speed. Add reverb ( of course).
I've heard some of the most atmospheric sounds records from an oak branch in really high wind. You can hear the internal fibres cracking and creaking. The contact mic cable does need strapping tightly as it moves a lot in the wind. Also ducking around next to trees in storms is a bit dangerous, lol.

[@domek.]

That's a good idea about the tape. I've been making tape loops recently so a tree recording would be a good one to try.

[@byfleetsurrey]

Great sounds

[@domek.]

Thanks!

[@medusemagiq5753]

Hi what kind of contact mic did you use? Sounds great!

[@domek.]

I can't remember what I used for this one, but I recommend JrF contact mics.

[@stuartchapman5171]

It looks like you have the mic attached to a tin lid? As a resonator? Ive tried doing this and cant get anything near as great sounding. Maybe I need that technique?

[@domek.]

Just the mic and some masking tape! I can't remember if I did any editing.

[@lamo4150]

one of my favourite videos ever please tell me you have a longer version somewhere because i revisit this video all the time

[@domek.]

Thanks, glad you like it! I was thinking about doing a longer version with a variety of different trees.

[@lamo4150]

@@domek. !!! great idea yes please. and like at least 5 mins per tree or something. oh the joy.