How do the pros do it?

[Nightfire]

Stupid question I know, but how do pro rec. studios record?
Do they get the overal mix or invidiual tracks through the mixing board and then use a software on a computer to edit/master?
Ive seen "reel to reel" machines but have no idea how they work. I assume it works just like a casette recording, so how do you edit that after, is it a one shot deal????
What software do professional studios use? And do they use special comps. or just standard good pcs?


Mike

 

[Freddy]

Caveat: I have no experience of professional recording studios.

However, I would say they use (in no particular order):

* A properly treated acoustic space to record in
* Top quality gear throughout the signal chain
* Experience and solid engineering skills
* First-class performances from good musicians

I suspect the software they use is the least significant part of the equation (especially the DAW, which would run on a standard PC or Mac). They will have top-notch plugins as well as A-class outboard gear, but will use it sparingly.

The reel-to-reel stuff still allowed multi-tracking. Editing would have been done at one time with a sharp knife

I suspect that any one of the four bullets I mentioned above would improve my stuff no end

 

[Nightfire]

I guess my question is, do pros run everything through the mixing board, and then into a computer (like I do at home)?
Do they use a special pc specifically built for recording, or what kind what kind soundcard would they use?

Thanks,
MIke

 

[zacanger]

Depends, person to person. Generally things will be recorded through the board to the computer via A/D converters/soundcard/firewire interface/whatever. Computers are computers, and they vary a lot... but you can record just as easily on a home PC as a Sweetwater-built computer or whatever. Then it's usually sent back out through the board for mixing.

 

[P-J]

* First-class performances from good musicians

I was with you right up until this. Have you seen some of the modern day rock acts try to play live?

 

[Freddy]

I was with you right up until this. Have you seen some of the modern day rock acts try to play live?

No I haven't .. I am getting on a bit. I assume from your comment that I am fortunate

 

[Nightfire]

Depends, person to person. Generally things will be recorded through the board to the computer via A/D converters/soundcard/firewire interface/whatever. Computers are computers, and they vary a lot... but you can record just as easily on a home PC as a Sweetwater-built computer or whatever. Then it's usually sent back out through the board for mixing.

Thanks, that makes sense. Never thought that it would be sent back through the board for mixing but that actually makes a lotta sense now.


Mike