Recording Questions (How are you recording)

jamescalvin · #1 09-08-2011, 04:28 PM

Hi All,

I don't do much recording but I've gotten a set up that will allow me to record (mixer, microphones, ipad etc). I'm trying to figure out what the best way would be to record into my computer. Programs that i have include a ton of sound altering plugins and what not that will take a dry sound and add a some bottom to it. I also know a lot of people are impartial to that and prefer to mic their amps and record through the mic. I'm interested to hear what you guys are doing and what's been working for you.

foq1978 · #2 09-08-2011, 05:35 PM

I would love to get some tips as well. But maybe this thread should be moved to Recording Gear and Equipment?

I use Logic, by the way. Plugging my bass through a Zoom USB pedalboard.

jamescalvin · #3 09-08-2011, 05:39 PM

Ahh, sorry about that, i should have recognized the thread. Moderator please move if possible.

I'm using Ableton Live I have Logic and Garage Band as well. I'd prefer to record through Ableton though because that's where I make most of my music.

foq1978 · #4 09-09-2011, 06:39 AM

I've used Ableton live in the past (PC). It was quite good, I must say. I am not a pro when it comes to recording / producing (I'm not even a decent amateur, in fact), so Ableton felt more.. easy, in general. Logic is very complete, but for some reason I could only finish a single demo song with it.

What style of music do you make in Ableton, by the way?

jamescalvin · #5 09-09-2011, 10:29 AM

I'm more of a down tempo guy. I'm into Portishead, Zero 7, Tricky, that sort of thing. So I try to make my music reflect that vibe. I just really want my basslines to sound full so I'm trying to find good methods to achieve that.

foq1978 · #6 09-09-2011, 11:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jamescalvin

I'm more of a down tempo guy. I'm into Portishead, Zero 7, Tricky, that sort of thing. So I try to make my music reflect that vibe. I just really want my basslines to sound full so I'm trying to find good methods to achieve that.

I imagined that. From what I hear, Ableton Live is probably the right choice for you, then. Of course, this is a generalization.

I am not sure why, but having used Trackers a long time ago (.mod, you know?) made me feel more at home using Ableton than Logic. But perhaps all I need is practice.

maxgrant · #7 09-09-2011, 12:57 PM

I use Reaper. If you have any questions as to the awesomeness, flexibility, and robustness of Reaper, go search for "Boojum" on iTunes and listen to a preview (my Boojum is the one with the giant curved cactus on the cover -- I don't think there are others but it's been a while since I checked).

Now, even as professional as the recording sounds I was doing my source in 16-bit 44.1 wav format because we recorded to my Fostex VF-16, and then exported the tracks to Reaper. I now have a Presonus interface ($400 or so) into a laptop via firewire, and I am doing source tracks at 24-bit 96 khz. The next Boojum outing will probably sound even better. I mean, I can hear some flaws in the mix but those flaws are due to source limitations and engineer (my) ignorance. I'm not trying to show of my band, just demonstrate that Reaper can put out a professional-quality recording. I both mixed AND mastered from Reaper.

License for Reaper is well under $100. And it absolutely whip's the llama's ass. Cockos Incorporated | Company. No, I do not work for them. I am just blown away by the quality and value of their product.

And I do believe they have a Mac release.