Oxtrack Studio - recording basics

Modern recording basics

If you still think that pop or rock records are made by recording a live performance a little information might be useful. If you know all there is to know about studio techniques and jargon you can skip this section J

Modern recordings make use of a technique known as multi-tracking. Using this technique, it is not necessary for all instruments and performers to play at the same time – indeed it is unusual for them to do so. Instead, individual instruments, vocalists or small groups are recorded one at a time – each on a different track (so called because the tape machines that were used in studios until quite recently used several parallel tracks on a single tape). The finished piece can be built up of many such individual tracks.

This provides several advantages:

· Mistakes are more easily rectified – as all the performers no longer have to perform that ‘perfect take’ at the same time the end result can be made up of the best individual takes each has contributed.

· Performers can appear on the recording more than once! Add a vocal harmony by singing along with your own lead or add an extra instrument.

· Recording can take place at different times (sometimes even at different locations)

A typical multi-track recording session starts by recording the rhythm session (eg, bass and drums). For complex pieces (eg, those containing tempo changes or unaccompanied solos) an additional guide track (eg, a sample vocal) may be recorded to a spare track at the same time.

All subsequent tracks are recorded based on this first rhythm track.

Of course, the subsequent performers need to hear the tracks already recorded so that they can sing or play in time. Unless you are only playing an instrument such as a keyboard that plugs directly into the mixing desk you will need to wear headphones to hear the material already recorded. More advice on wearing and using headphones is provided later or click here to read it now.

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Last modified: 30 July, 2002