Microphones/Vocal Effects

Microphones

Vocals

Neumann KMS 105

Matt's choice of live microphone is a Neumann KMS 105. He prefers to use this microphone as it deals with his challenging mic technique (i.e. not singing near the mic).

Designed with superlative vocal reproduction in mind, the KMS 105 brings Neumann quality to the demanding sound reinforcement environment. With its supercardioid polar pattern, low self-noise and uncoloured off-axis pickup, the KMS 105 complements in-ear monitor systems. By employing a unique four-layer acoustic filter, the KMS 105 minimises popping and wind noise, and because of special mechanical and electrical filters handling noise is virtually eliminated. Superior resolution and linear frequency response make it very easy for the artist using the KMS 105 to identify whether he or she is "on mic".

The Neumann KMS 105 is used extensively by many large bands and costs around the £400 mark.

Guitars

• Royer V122 on the cab with an SE Electronics Reflexion filter

Drums

• Kick: Beyer m88, Shure SM91
• Snare: Shure SM57, Neumann KMS 105
• HH/Ride: AKG C451
• Toms: Shure Beta 98
• Overheads: AKG C414

Note: for Supermassive Black Hole, Muse use a Roland TMC-6 trigger to MIDI converter on the snare and kick drum to a Roland SPD-S.

Processing

Avalon VT737

Sansamp

Matt's voice goes through three stages when singing live.

• Normal, standard clean vocal with no effects
• Through an Avalon VT737 with high gain that produces a "nice valve distorted" sound
• Through a SansAmp PSA in conjunction with a custom control switch operated by Bellamy to get extreme distortion.

Matt's voice also goes through System 6000 reverbs, a TC delay and an H35000.


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