Touching up vocals :\

[03mustang4life]

Hey, don't know if this is the right spot, but I'm using Cool Edit Pro v2.1 and was just wondering if there is anything to touch up vocals...like what kind of effects and how much. I know someone else asked about kinda the same thing, but I didn't see a clear response on just which effects are best and so on. Also, does anybody know about panning vocals? I have read somewhere someone talking about it, but I don't remember where and I couldn't understand what he was trying to get at. If anyone could help me out, it would be greatly appreciated!!! Or is there another program better for recording and editing vocals? THANKS!!!

[Anthrax]

i always add dynamics processing to my vocals, i use the presets that are at bottom of the list(the vocal ones). this evens out the sound alot(its a compressor)

[03mustang4life]

Awesome! Thanks for that tip. I tried it out and that helps out ALOT!!! Appreciate it!

[Change of POETS]

Remember, the presets are just starting points as every vocal and every person has it's own dynamic qualities and unique sound. Developing custom settings for your voice or vocals of a regular client are worthwhile.

I use two effects on any vocal, unless I'm looking to create a specific effect on the vocal. I always use Dynamics Processing, usually a 3:1 setting or a 4:1 setting, I don't think I've ever used anything more than 4:1 on a vocal.

I also use reverb. I have custom reverbs I've created, so play around with the presets and adjust them to get the desired sound you want.

As far as panning vocals... it depends on the track. Everything deserves it's own place in the mix. Main vocals should be dead center, and up front in the mix. Backup vox or adlibs should be panned and much lower in volume so as not to distract from the main vocal, but to compliment the overall sound.

[03mustang4life]

Great, I'm going to have to try that one out. When you say you do 3:1 or 4:1, how exactly do you get those values? I open up the dynamics processing, and click on the traditional tab and you can set it to compress, expand, or flat and then set the values and so on...what exactly should i put in these fields? And also for the threshold? Thanks.....