Recording Basics

Tracking

Every recording project has to begin somewhere. This is the time to set up the whole band, parts of the band, a large MIDI rig, an orchestra, or just a single musician with a single instrument. Sometimes called "basic tracks" or "rhythm tracks", it is this foundation on which the entire recording will be based.

Overdubs

After the initial tracking is complete, other musical "parts" may be needed. Usually these will include vocals, both main and backing parts, instrumental solos, or other more time consuming performances. Typically, these recordings are the finishing touches of the complete musical performance.

Mixing

After the recording is complete, all of the elements must be blended or "mixed" into a final stereo or other multi-channel form. At this point, most of the special effects are applied and relative volumes and equalization are set.

Mastering

Mastering is a blanket name applied to the various processes used to prepare the final mixed product for manufacturing. These processes include sequencing and editing of songs into their final form, equalization and level adjustments for each song in order to even out large differences between various mixes, and preparation of mechanical parts necessary for delivering the entire product.

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) has become the standard method for connecting multiple electronic devices both in the studio and at live performances. These devices range from keyboards, to rack mounted keyboard modules, to computer systems, to effects devices and beyond. Many productions begin with their initial tracks prepared by means of MIDI controlled drum machines and synthesizer modules, either with or without a central computer sequencer. Often, MIDI sequencing can also be used throughout the tracking and overdub process both to assist in the performances and to provide sound sources for electronic instruments.

Maximizing Studio Time

Preparing instruments

If there was ever a time for your instruments to be in top condition, this is definitely it. Whether its new strings and perfectly adjusted intonation, or new drum heads and working stands, or even just cables that work, everything you can do to smooth out the process will save you money.

Rehearsal

Sometimes artists overlook potential difficulties and thorough rehearsals may be the best way avoid that particular problem.  In most recording scenarios each member will be recorded separately and will not be playing with other band members as they are accustomed to.

Click tracks

Click tracks or metronomes can be very helpful in the recording process. Not only can they help the artist to record with steadier tempos, but these days, with the advent of computer based solutions for recording, using a metronome can assist the artist in making greater use of many modern techniques such as "cut and paste" editing.

Format selection

The selection of basic recording medium can greatly effect the process. For instance, recording on a tape based system can be very different from a hard disk based system. Different methods of storage, editing, archiving and back-up apply to each system and can present both financial and operational advantages.

Studio trade offs (cost vs. efficiency)

Often in the recording process, the artist is forced to decide between "getting it right" and affording the cost of the recording. For some processes, such as mixing, expensive tools can actually save you money by allowing you to work faster with better results. If you are looking for a big, ambient drum sound, recording drums in a small room makes it that much harder.

Planning for end use of project

Even before you record your first note, its very helpful to decide what your final product should be: a CD for release, a demo, MP3 files for Internet distribution or all three. Knowing the answer to this question can save you a lot of money and time.