Doug, that seems like excellent advice. I would add the following as potentially helpful: If the recording of that solo voice or instrument is in a dead space, it should sound life like in scale with no sounds (distortion), or exaggerated size outside of the immediate source of the sound. However, if it is in a live, reverberant space, then the voice/instrument should sound life size but there should also be a wealth of clean/clear sonic information all around that center image of the source. This will inform the listener of the size, shape and character of the space in which the singer/instrument is located.
I borrowed the Fozgometer? last night to check the azimuth on my arm. This is an expensive device that also requires the use of an appropriate test LP. It is quick and gets the job done. Sadly, my arm does not really have azimuth adjustability, but I was able to determine that the channel balance is spot on according to the meter and that my azimuth was extremely close.
I agree that learning to do it by ear is preferable and, it is certainly cheaper. There can be a learning curve, but it can be fun. I appreciate that people like Doug can explain how to do it and what to listen for.
I borrowed the Fozgometer? last night to check the azimuth on my arm. This is an expensive device that also requires the use of an appropriate test LP. It is quick and gets the job done. Sadly, my arm does not really have azimuth adjustability, but I was able to determine that the channel balance is spot on according to the meter and that my azimuth was extremely close.
I agree that learning to do it by ear is preferable and, it is certainly cheaper. There can be a learning curve, but it can be fun. I appreciate that people like Doug can explain how to do it and what to listen for.