getting high volume on recording playback

[carollhobi]

Hello:

I use the Tascam 788 and I can't figure out what levels/settings I should use during recording and mixing in order to get good volume when I playback a CD I have recorded. The volume is always significantly lower that regular CDs. What has worked for you?

 

[Dogbreath]

Actually pretty common dude. Most of the hot levels come from the mastering process. Comp/ expansion/EQ...etc

It's a whole nuther process...

fwiw

 

[Cloneboy Studio]

And chances are your unmastered audio has more dynamic range and a better mix than half the "professional" cd's that are just too darn loud, with about 1 db of dynamics to it.

 

[EddieRay]

This is the challenge. From my own experience and from what I've learned here, you won't be able to match commercial CD volume levels without mastering. BUT, if your results are siginificantly lower, you can certainly improve it by adjusting the levels along your gain structure. Make sure the signal is strong all along the signal chain, then apply some compression on the final stereo mix.

 

[$a1Ty]

if its not loud enough turn up the volume knob

 

[brandondrury]

In the past, I had problems with boxy drums being turned up too loud in the mix. As I got better at mic placement, I noticed that my drums had more crack in them and less mud and boxiness. This allowed me to lower the level of the drums.

Brandon