Newbie mixing vocals for the first time.

[von]

Hey, great board. I'm sure I'll find the answers to my questions here. I'm a newbie just starting to mix vocals for a small budget, amateur music video. I've downloaded a song off kaaza by Ciara (OH) that just has the instrumental and I'd like to have a female sing new lyrics for that song. What is the basic equipment I'd need to mix the vocals, which I've recorded with a professional style microphone onto tape and then transferred into digital format?

The name of a computer vocal mixer program would be nice so long as it's not over $500. Also, what are some of the common terms, tricks or technics used in vocal mixing that make not-so-good vocals sound reasonable?? Thanks

 

[jpw23]

Also, what are some of the common terms, tricks or technics used in vocal mixing that make not-so-good vocals sound reasonable?? Thanks

There are no magic buttons or technics that make a crappy vocal sound good........crap in crap out.........buy a good mic, a good preamp and most importantly.........find a great singer!!!!

 

[SouthSIDE Glen]

If I understand your situation right, you've already gotten your instrumental and vocal tracks on the computer, you just need to mix them together. There's any number of multitrack editor programs available. There is a free trial download of Adobe Audition available at the Adobe website (www.adobe.com). That would be at least one that could get you started and get you used to the feel of non-linear editors before you spend any bucks.

I'd also caution that I'm hoping this amateur video is for personal entertainment only, otherwise the use of potentially copyrighted material downloaded off of Kaaza can be dicy if you plan on using that video in public performance or competition.