vrbpodcast Episode 5

This is how I record my guitar tracks part 1 outline:

1. Computer = Desktop or Laptop

"When buying a gear, buy one that you can afford." Don't buy cheap gears that's not gonna last long or poor performance or quality.  Also never buy gear which is beyond your budget where you'll end up bankrupt or broke.

2. Software:  DAW (digital audio workstation) softwares.  To name afew:  Garageband, Cubase, Mixcraft, Ableton Live, etc. and in my case I am using EnergyXT.

3. Audio Interface:  USB vs Firewire

Things to consider are number and types of connections.  Minimum of 2 inputs, one for vocals and one for instrument.  Then 2 outputs for stereo outputs.  Lastly, 1 headphone socket for a quiet and up close monitor.  I am using Guitar Rig Session by Native Instruments.

4. Microphone:  Dynamic vs Condenser

Shure SM57 and SM58 but I am using Shure C606.  Although, instrumental microphones or guitar microphones are not a necessity now because of the digital audio workstation or the softwares now got the necessary effects, amplifiers, etc. or even the setup of microphones, the distance, room size, all sorts are already in the softwares built in.  In my case, I am using Digitech RP55 digital multieffects processor which got not only the effects but the amp and how big the amp, like 2x12 or 4x12 cabinets.

5. Setup your guitar:  Meaning new sets of strings should be stretched overnight and tuned properly.  Control knobs should not make any noise and are clean, buzzy fret should be sorted, guitar intonation, etc.  In short, a guitar expert or Luthier should see your guitar before recording that will make a difference although not so much of a requirement but would be helpful.

You are now almost ready to record. There's no shortcut on this one, you really need to do or have these before you start your first guitar recording.