Recording Acoustic Guitar Masterclass with Mark Marshall

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

In this video, I highlight the often-overlooked role of guitar picks in shaping your acoustic guitar tone. Discover how pick material, thickness, and shape can dramatically affect your sound—they’re truly the first stage of EQ when recording. Don’t settle for just any pick; learn how intentional pick choices can elevate your recordings from the very first strum.

Unlock the secrets of recording acoustic guitar with a capo! In this lesson, I explain how using a capo can change the guitar’s resonance, impact timbre, and affect tuning. I also share essential tips for avoiding fret buzz and getting the best possible sound when with a capo on your acoustic guitar.

In this video, I break down how and why I use compression when recording acoustic guitar—both during the session and in post-production. I clear up common misconceptions about compression, explain what it really does to your sound, and share practical tips for dialing in settings that preserve the guitar’s natural tone while achieving a polished, professional mix.

In this video, I walk you through the crucial preparatory steps before you ever set up a microphone—including how to get familiar with your instrument and the song, practical troubleshooting strategies, and why laying this foundation leads to better recordings

In this video, I talk about the environment an acoustic guitar is stored in, and how dryness or humidity can alter the tone of the instrument. I’ll explain what happens to wood and hardware when conditions fluctuate, signs of environmental problems to watch for, and practical tips to keep your guitar in optimal shape for great sound.

In this video, I discuss the basics of mic placement with an acoustic guitar. I'll cover the key principles of positioning microphones to capture a natural, balanced sound, starting with one mic.

In this video, I break down the decision-making process behind choosing between stereo recording, mono miking, or capturing an acoustic guitar with two mics summed to a single track. You can learn how each approach affects your final sound, and get practical advice for selecting the best technique for your song, session, or recording environment.

In this video, I break down the decision-making process behind choosing between stereo recording, mono miking, or capturing an acoustic guitar with two mics summed to a single track. You can learn how each approach affects your final sound, and get practical advice for selecting the best technique for your song, session, or recording environment.

In this video, I share essential techniques for mixing acoustic guitar, including how to use EQ, compression, and other processing tools to shape your sound in the post-recording stage. Learn how to enhance clarity, balance, and presence—so your acoustic guitar sits perfectly in any mix.

In this video, I share my closing thoughts on recording acoustic guitar. I’ll highlight the key takeaways from the session—like the importance of thoughtful preparation, mic placement, and string selection—along with some final tips for achieving authentic, great-sounding acoustic tracks. Whether you’re recording at home or in a studio, giving attention to detail at every stage makes all the difference in your finished sound.