POP goes the digital recording

Let's face it...

'POP goes the digital recording' is NOT a good thing.

In analog recording often a spike past zero dB on the meter was a GOOD thing. Because of the level loss in the transfer to magnetic tape, I would usually set the peaks to rise to +3 dB! But in the digital studio....

There is no way to allow the signal to come CLOSE to that zero mark, or you are asking for an audio meltdown. And not just a melt down in the track being recorded, either. I have often seen this spike feed over into other channels already recorded (or is it my imagination?)

Anyway here are two tips to optimize the recording of every track that will get the best results without much of a chance of these ugly POP crisis happening.

1. Set the peaks at around -9dB. I know this sounds like we are recording at a very low volume, but in the digital realm, we always have the option to increase the volume by any level we want, or even gate out the hum/buzz/background 'air' if we choose. No longer is it important to get a first recording at the highest levels possible. I like that.
2. For vocals, and wind instruments use a pop filter so you can get near proximity to the mic as you record. If you are a regular reader, you will know I am a strong proponent of recording a dry track CLOSE to the mic and adding 'the digital room' in post-production. Always better results through better control.

So there you go. Two great ways to improve your recordings dramatically. Now if you find that [1] above doesn't work out well because of a lack of presence, chances are you need to upgrade your studio mic to a good large-diaphram type. My favorite place to shop for them is here.

And concerning the pop filter [2] mentioned, let me save you $40 bucks or so. Make your own from a pair of your lady's panty hose stretched over a round wire. When placed right in front of the mic, it works every bit as well as any overpriced filter from the audio tech store. I used a craft 'embroidering' hoop that cost less than a dollar, and looks very professional.

Now go make music, GB,
-Jack Sanner

Micro-Studio TIP: High and Dry

Another TIP for the micro-studio producer: High and Dry

There is a crazy dichotomy in the recording of tracks when it comes to effects processing. Here is the dilemma ...

1] Adding the effects later in guitar or vocal or keyboard tracks make more sense because you have MORE CONTROL of the overall sound when adding the FX later. The 'perfect' sound can be engineered this way and fed into the mix in a much more intelligent way. Besides, today's digital effects are SO much better (usually) than ANY outboard gear that will process the instrument BEFORE it is recorded.

OK, that makes sense to me. It sounds like good advise to me. Until I heard the next argument.

2] Expecting to get a solid performance from an artist, in particularly an electric guitarist, simply CANNOT be achieved in a dry track. The FX makes a big difference in HOW the track is played WHILE it is recorded. Asking the player to 'imagine' the final sound is out of the question. Plus, the chance of finding just the 'right' FX in post production is like a needle in the hay stack.

Wow, sounds logical to me, too. So, what should we do?

See, when it comes to the digital drum-vs-acoustic-drum-set problem is really an easy one to solve. Simply allow the player to play his (or your) actual acoustic set, then trigger the sounds digitally without telling the drummer. :-)

But the guitarist often cannot play the same 'dry'. And certainly will not usually 'feel' comfortable doing so, either.

MY SOLUTION:
Only hire professionals who have practiced the tracks 'to perfection' and can play them WITH OR WITHOUT the proper 'sound'.

Sorry to be so blunt, but unless I am recording it "Their' way (and 'they' are paying me to do so), I need to at least expect that much professionalism.

To add insult to injury, I also expect them to PLAY TO A CLICK TRACK.


Sorry if that is asking TOO much of the players,
-Jack

Home Recording Studio Resource

Here's a new lens at Squidoo that discusses much of what we do here.

Also this page includes some nice resources for the Home Recording Studio and a place to sound off, too.

Check it out at http://www.squidoo.com/home-recording-studio.

Testing...Testing...

You've found us! Sit down, we've got lots to talk about.

First off, let me introduce myself. I'm Jack Sanner, that awesome, terrific, stupendous, and very humble person (a great-guy-once-you-get-to-know-me) that hails from just outside of Pittsburgh, PA USA. Google me for all the details.

My micro-studio has been active for over 15 years, going from a 4-track cassette tape (remember those?) to a full digital in PC recording deck.

I've been around a while, have some strong opinions, and lots of experience...

...so let's talk.
-Jack

PS: comment here & we'll discuss the topics YOU want to here.