Yamaha AW4416 Tutorial - Page 6

Tutorial-Laying Down the Basic Tracks ❒ "Scratch" or "Guide" Vocals If you're working alone this won't be necessary, but when recording a band it's sometimes a good idea to have the singer lay down a "scratch vocal" track while recording the rhythm section. This is simply because bands are generally used to playing with vocals, and the performance can suffer if there is a void where the vocals are supposed to be. The scratch vocal track can also be a useful guide while laying down other overdubs such as guitar or keyboard solos. DON'T rely on the scratch vocal track to record chorus parts, though, because the teeniest changes in the pitch or phrasing of the lead vocal part can throw the entire chorus out of whack. ❒ Microphone Selection? Oowee! Here's a subject that can make even the most seasoned recording engineer cringe. But, reality check firmly established, we realize that for most of us this is not a problem simply because we don't have a dazzling selection of microphones at our disposal. And that's that. But there is one thing we would like to stress: if you don't already own the microphone(s) you intend to use for recording, CHOOSE THEM WITH CARE!! Really. Here are a few guidelines for the minimum microphone selection for most home recording applications. ❍ If you will be recording vocals and/or acoustic instruments in the (home) studio. Quite a number of high-quality large-diaphragm condenser microphones have become available at very reasonable prices in the last few years. Get one. But, if at all possible, try out a few before making a final commitment. Although most microphones in this category have uniformly excellent frequency response and high sensitivity, they do have distinctive sounds. Choose the one that sounds the best to your own ears. Don't worry about switchable directivity unless you really think you'll need an omni-directional pattern for some application; the plainvanilla cardioid pattern is probably all you'll ever need for most recording. And since the AW4416 provides switchable phantom power on inputs 1 and 2, you can choose studio-quality phantom-powered microphones with confidence. The same microphone you choose for recording vocals will most probably also be ideal for recording acoustic guitar, piano, and a range of wind instruments as well. Not a good choice for close-miking drums and percussion, though. One or two large-diaphragm condenser mics are, however, perfect for use as drum "overheads." ❍ Close-miking guitar amps, drums, and other loud stuff. Here's where you need one, or perhaps a few, good-quality dynamic microphones. There are a number of "standard" dynamic microphones that are ideal for this type of application, and which can be acquired for surprisingly little outlay. If you don't already have a couple of established makers and models in mind, ask around. 6 - Tutorial