I'm being tasked with the recording of a classical orchestra, live off the show. For me, the most logical way to do so is to record a stereo signal. Period. I am considering using my Zoom H6 recorder. The two stereo condensers for the front of house sound, maybe two small paired condersers closer to the stage for a more focused sound, at 3-5x distance from the Zoom mics, and another two pointing at the audience, at 3-5x distance from the recorder as well. I sense that can give me a great overall sound of the show that I can then tweak for the best results possible. I might even take my laptop, a portable interface, and another mic for singers or a piano solo section.

Do you think it's a good plan or do you think I'm in for trouble in your experience?

Thanks in advance for your input.

 

Hello Brother, it's been a minute.

I suggest asking about this over at https://realgearonline.com/ . There are some folks over there that will surely have great advice based on years of experience. It's a fantastic forum and is very friendly.

 

Depending on size, you could use a Stereo Ambient + Deca Tree..

For Orchestra that would be the minimum,
and then work each section separately.. Strings, Winds, Choir, Brass,
each part must have its own treatment or you wont hear the Details and solo parts clearly..

Percs can be left a bit more loose depending on style/piece as they will fill the room anyway..

 

Sounds like a plan. Zoom H6 mic pre's sound pretty good, although I'm not a fan of built in mics in general (but I haven't actually tried the H6's).
I would probably use those for audience reaction (as it's the least important part of your recording). Turn the Zoom around, you can even put it on a tripod, a little higher up.
Then use 2 condensers in A-B stereo on a tripod at 2,5 mtrs up behind the director. Extra mics could be put in front of instruments that are important, but tend to drown in the A-B recording.