Decca tree

A stereo microphone technique developed by Roy Wallace and Arthur Haddy at Decca Studios in London in the 1950s, most used for orchestral recordings. Originally, it used three cardioid microphones, but later switched to omnidirectional microphones (Neumann M50s). The mics are arranged in an upside-down “T” pattern. Two microphones are placed left and right approximately 2 m (6 ft) apart with the third placed in the center about 1 m (3 ft) in front, approximately 2.5-3 m (8-10 ft) up. This configuration produces a strong stereo image. It is sometimes called ABC Stereo. [Source: Los Senderos Studio, Recording Studio Glossary]