Need tips on layering guitar sounds.

[VirtualSamana]

I am a POD user/abuser. I am trying to record a Creed cover and would like some tips on how to layer guitar sounds to make them sound thick and fat.

 

[Blue Bear Sound]

Double-track, even triple-track the part -- but make sure you change the sound of each track, otherwise you end up with a big wash........

Also - you need far less distortion recoreded than you think......

Bruce

 

[BBB]

Also try using another device/amp/guitar/mic. Often multiple tracks using the same amp/device can enhance certain sonic characteristics of the same amp. Using multiple amps can fill in the sonic landscape, thus resulting in a fuller sounds.

-B

 

[jvasey]

My favourite way is to take the original track, send it out an aux, and re-EQ with a slight delay (20-50ms).

Now the big question is "Why are you recording a cover?".
If it's for an audition or something I can see it, but there's not much interest in the copy of Moby Dick I typed

 

[VirtualSamana]

Hey thanks for all of the great advice. I will give all of these suggestions a try.


JV - You mean that there is actually book inspired by the Zep tune?!! Gotta put that on my to read list Here are a few of reasons why I am recording a cover. First and foremost to hone my recording skills. Second I have a very limited vocal range and Scott Stapp's voice actually falls within it. Third it's a gift for my friend who is a die hard Creed fan (hope it doesn't insult her.) I have written many songs on acoustic guitar but when the production part comes around I find that I can't get what's in my head on to the hard disk. I am learning a lot from recording covers which I hope will translate into becoming a better producer both technically and creatively.



Does anyone know of any threads which deal with the subject of production from begining to end?

 

[twist]

re: covers

Hey VS,

I like to record covers from time to time myself for a couple of different reasons.

A) to do a different arrangement

B)It may be a little known but favorite song of mine

c) to try to understand how something was done by mimicing it

It's fun to see how close you can get to repeating something you've heard and liked.
With an original tune, I feel like it's anything goes. If you didn't get the exact guitar sound you were after, thats OK, it's original.
But you can learn a lot about the process, and the limits of your own talent by trying to duplicate what you've heard.

Twist

 

[jvasey]

Recording covers and trying to exactly duplicate the original sounds will help teach you a lot about your equipment, and help you realize how to duplicate what's in your head.
You should check out an album called "Faithful' by Todd Rundgren. One side was originals, and the other was note for note reproductions of things like Strawberry Fields Forever, and Good Vibrations. He's had moderate success as an artist, but is a hugely successful producer, best known for producing Meatloaf's Bat Out of Hell.

I had to ask though, because I just finished a session for a band that recorded cover's of Blink and MXPX. I can think of many better ways to spend the money, so thanks to their foolishness, I will.

Jeff

 

[64Firebird]

Speaking of Todd Rundgren & Bat out of Hell, anybody know how they got that "motorcycle guitar" sound on the title track?

 

[mshea]

I agree

Hey....that's great advice. I'm learning how to play and record, this will come in handy. Thanks for helpin' a newbie!!!