About to jump into recording...

  • Thread starter Thread starter mikeyskywalker
  • Start date Start date
I'm sure I won't be the last to tell you this but RTFM would be a good start, and perhaps do a bit of work on your own re. reading many of the useful informative posts on this site, before lobbing in with yet another "I'm a newbie, I know nothing, teach me!" first post.

When you have some knowledge, perhaps your questions could be a little more focused and include useful information such as what style of music you're looking to record and what other equipment you possess, llike instruments, microphones etc.

Can't tell you much from what you've given us...
 
mikeyskywalker said:
What are the basics? (Programs, advice, etc.)
What would be the procedure of recording a track? (What seems to go best for you?)

I don't need full explanations, just need to know where to start. I can read up on operating software/hardware myself.

I'm getting this device: http://www.music123.com/Tascam-DP-02CF-Digital-Portastudio-241796-i1380740.Music123


Thank you!
Click to expand...

Go to "recording techniques" and you will see at the top "best internet resourses for recording." Be sure to put a parachute on before you "jump.":rolleyes:
 
Armistice said:
I'm sure I won't be the last to tell you this but RTFM would be a good start, and perhaps do a bit of work on your own re. reading many of the useful informative posts on this site, before lobbing in with yet another "I'm a newbie, I know nothing, teach me!" first post.

When you have some knowledge, perhaps your questions could be a little more focused and include useful information such as what style of music you're looking to record and what other equipment you possess, llike instruments, microphones etc.

Can't tell you much from what you've given us...
Click to expand...


I have been jumping around this site for an hour, but I'm searching for a direct answer. There must be some basic programs needed for recording, or types of programs. Picture yourself starting out new, what would be useful to know and what do you need to know?

If there was a "I'm a newbie, I know nothing, teach me!" post I would have read that, now wouldn't I have? Instead of asking... I'm not asking for full explanations (as I said) I'm just looking for useful program names, and tips.

As for instruments...Guitars, microphones, keyboard, drums, other noise makers like maracas, etc. Also, using some cpu programs to create ambient type noises.

The type of music I guess would fall under rock.
 
halfred said:
Go to "recording techniques" and you will see at the top "best internet resourses for recording." Be sure to put a parachute on before you "jump.":rolleyes:
Click to expand...

Hah thank you for your advice, I will definately go check it out.
 
mikeyskywalker said:
I have been jumping around this site for an hour, but I'm searching for a direct answer. There must be some basic programs needed for recording, or types of programs. Picture yourself starting out new, what would be useful to know and what do you need to know?

If there was a "I'm a newbie, I know nothing, teach me!" post I would have read that, now wouldn't I have? Instead of asking... I'm not asking for full explanations (as I said) I'm just looking for useful program names, and tips.

As for instruments...Guitars, microphones, keyboard, drums, other noise makers like maracas, etc. Also, using some cpu programs to create ambient type noises.

The type of music I guess would fall under rock.
Click to expand...

There was an Ultimate Newbies thread started, but it failed to live up to its name. I think we should rework it and make it the actual Ultimate Newbies thread. Until then, you can try the TweakHead Guide. Very good for those starting out. You can skip over the parts that don't pertain to you.

http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm

The first thing you should think about is what kind of interface will you need, assuming you want to record with your computer. Most interfaces come with a recording program. Be sure to look for that when shopping around. Any of the popular ones are good; Cubase, Sonar, Ableton, etc.
 
I think it is safe to say that almost everyone here started by putting a mic up and pressing the little harmless red button.
 
I sure hope so. it wouldn't be good for the world if the button was misswired.
 
You're buying a Tascam digital recorder so you don't immediately need any "programs" because you're not going to be recording on a computer but on a standalone workstation.

You may, at a later date, want to edit on a PC. Personally I don't bother although I record on a standalone machine too. Others do. Personal preference. Worry about that when you start recording.

The chain goes like this:

Instrument -> (optional amplification ->) microphone -> preamp -> recording device.

Your Tascam will be both a recording device and also have onboard preamps which will probably do to start with. You've also now told us what instruments you want to record, so that's the sound source. Next tell us what microphone(s) you own.

Like someone else said, we all pretty much started out with a machine with a record button, a microphone and an instrument of some kind. You have the two ends of the chain, we need information about the bit in the middle.

I'm not trying to give you a hard time, just trying to get some information out of you. We're all quite helpful here but you have to work with us.

You will most likely need a microphone or two. Do you have any?
 
mikeyskywalker said:
What are the basics? (Programs, advice, etc.)
What would be the procedure of recording a track? (What seems to go best for you?)

I'm getting this device: http://www.music123.com/Tascam-DP-02CF-Digital-Portastudio-241796-i1380740.Music123


Thank you!
Click to expand...

The manual for that Tascam will answer most of your questions. It will tell you how to record a track. It will touch on premastering and tell you how to output your accumulated tracks into a stereo signal. It will tell you about connecting microphones, and about phantom power for condenser type mics vs. dynamic type mics. (stage mics to put it simply) It will tell you how to hook a guitar or bass in direct. It will tell you how to connect to your computer via the USB port so that you can burn it all off to a CD. You can download the manual before you buy the machine if you like.
 
Firstly, we're assuming you really want to base your operation around the Tascam station. I nearly went down that route but pulled sharply up and turned in the direction of the computer, as the central core. Each has it's own advantages, which I'm sure you'll find out by reading articles.

If and when you do get it, get to know the Tascam inside out. At least, understand it's basic functions thoroughly. When you're ready for the next piece of gear, you'll know so, because whatever it offers, will drive you naturally towards it.

I started out with a computer and VSTs only. Next I bought a mixer and a little guitar amp and just jammed. Then I found I needed to upgrade the soundcard to do any recording, then I had to put all this together, which took a while and I struggled at first. Once I'd got the hang of recording guitars over my VSTs and drums, I then went out and bought a mic... Next up, I hooked up the MIDI controller I'd had lying around for a few months.

At first, I had to understand the signal chain of a mixer and then how it related to the computer, which was a set of big nasty humps for me - but now, with each new piece of gear I purchase, I learn how to use it before going onto the next piece. Once you understand how the central hub of your system works, you will get a feel for how to apply the next piece of the puzzle and your learning just snowballs from there...

Depending on how it's written and who it's aimed at, I've personally found that RTFM isn't always the most helpful advice to a newb, because TFM can often contain language and terms they assume you already knew, before you bought it. I had this problem with my mixer, so it can be helpful to look at the likes of Tweakheadz guide, while you're in the manual and figure out how to use your various bits of gear together.

Start slowly, in other words. Let the gear teach you.

In effect, you're about to learn a new language. There will be much lookin' up of werdz...

Regards

Dr. V
 
Last edited:
TheChikenMaster said:
I think it is safe to say that almost everyone here started by putting a mic up and pressing the little harmless red button.
Click to expand...

Actually, I started with a telephone answering machine and one of those toy lazer guns that make weird noises. I was 38 at the time. :cool:

Dr. V
 
Last edited:
Armistice said:
You're buying a Tascam digital recorder so you don't immediately need any "programs" because you're not going to be recording on a computer but on a standalone workstation.

You may, at a later date, want to edit on a PC. Personally I don't bother although I record on a standalone machine too. Others do. Personal preference. Worry about that when you start recording.

The chain goes like this:

Instrument -> (optional amplification ->) microphone -> preamp -> recording device.

Your Tascam will be both a recording device and also have onboard preamps which will probably do to start with. You've also now told us what instruments you want to record, so that's the sound source. Next tell us what microphone(s) you own.

Like someone else said, we all pretty much started out with a machine with a record button, a microphone and an instrument of some kind. You have the two ends of the chain, we need information about the bit in the middle.

I'm not trying to give you a hard time, just trying to get some information out of you. We're all quite helpful here but you have to work with us.

You will most likely need a microphone or two. Do you have any?
Click to expand...


Thank you for all the useful info! :)

No, I do not currently own any. I can purchase however many I need though. I didn't run out to buy any, because the device should be here in a week or two. You have any suggestions for mics?
 
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