Computer Studio

As I mentioned on my Bio page, I built a recording studio on my computer. I started out with the software, then purchased a new sound card, mixing board and condenser microphone. If you plan on making good recordings, you should invest in some decent recording software even if it costs you $100.00 or more. The better the software, the more audio tracks, editing and enhancements you can use. You can even download a lot of cool effects patches for free on the web which support the plug in type your recording software uses. In addition, there are tons of sound patches you can download for your computer, keyboard or drum machine. I would also recommend a good quality full duplex sound card. The sound card makes a big difference in your recordings. To get a decent hot clear signal, you should run all your audio equipment through a mixing board (see my Cakewalk Tips Page for simple set up instructions) before you plug directly into your soundcard. If you can, you should record everything less effects (this way, you can try several effects within the software till you find the best combination). You can pick a small board up for little money and it is well worth the investment. And remember, the bigger the hard drive and processor the better! Those wave files eat up tons of memory. A computer studio is great for putting down ideas (even if you don't want to use it for your final product). It beats the heck out of a tape recorder and you'll never have to search for lost tapes again! I found there is nothing better than hands on experience. So poke around and check everything out. This is the only way you will truly learn and master the whole process (I know this because I am still learning LOL).

Traditional 8-24 track units and other types of recording equipment.

There are several different ways to record other than a computer. Although I don't know much about this type of recording, I do have a great respect for it. Most professional studios use a number of various types of equipment to meet the needs of their clients. Before going this route, you need to fully consider all your options to ensure you are making the best decision. Here is a checklist to follow...

1.  How old is the system (if used) and will it be around for a while.

2.  Are the cartridges, disks, or tapes needed for the equipment still available. You also want to find out how much these cost and will they be available for a long time.

3.  How reliable is this type of system. Is it one that most people are using or is it an off brand?

4.  Is technical support available and is there some type of local repair shop in case you need anything fixed. And what would they charge? 

5. How much does the system cost and is it worth it vs. going with something a little more expensive for the security?

6. Be sure to check the internet, music magazines and books to see what they recommend. Ask your friends who are musicians what works best for them. Go to music stores and ask as many questions as you can. Be cautious and check all your choices before you invest a dime.  

Recording at a professional studio

By far, going into a professional studio is the best possible way to make a recording (unless of course you own one). There is a lot less stress when it comes to figuring out what you want to do. Basically, all you need to do is perform! Sounds pretty nice doesn't it? I have put together a list of things you should do so you are prepared before you go in as well as things to observe while you are there.

1. Practice, practice, practice - There is nothing more irritating to an engineer than waiting on someone to learn their parts while they are in the studio. Not to mention what it will cost you.

2. Make sure to compare prices of several studios before you decide. Also, it might be worth a little extra money to go with a reputable one.

3. Plan to record in a specific order - this way, there will be less moving around (which will cost you money). Put down all your guitar tracks for all the songs then proceed to all the vocals, etc.

4. Make sure you can hear yourself - If you can't, tell the engineer. You can't record a good product if you can't hear what you are doing.

5. Practice different settings on your amp and keyboards. Write these settings down so you aren't taking an hour doing a sound check for each song (I learned this the hard way $$).

6. Don't be afraid to ask to have something redone. After all, your the one that has to live with it.

7. Be sure to tell your engineer how you would like each song mixed. They might not fully understand what effect you are trying to create. If possible, you may want to be there when they do the mix down to ensure you are satisfied with the final product. Also, don't be afraid to ask the engineer their opinion about anything! Some of the best sound effects and enhancements in great songs were invented by engineers not the musicians!

8. And last but not least, be on time (if you aren't you will be charged any way).