What do I do with a real guitar track ?

[Sprakey]

Hello.

Looking for some tips on recording a live electric guitar. I'm used to recording my own synth work, but I've managed to get a real guitar solo track down. I have two "takes" of the same solo if required, recorded in cubase on a small amp, (miked).

I instinctively want to apply compression, but I'd like some advise on what I should / shouldn't be doing. It there a standard formulae for electric guitars ?

Grateful for any advise you can offer.
thank you.

 

[Zeppe]

Personally, I will work my ass off getting the sound I want from the guitar amp. Then once its tracked I don't do much else pan and adjust level. Compression is generally not a good idea for electric guitars. Let the guitar have its natural dynamic range without squashing it. Use a little subtractive EQ if its not fitting in the mix.

Tip: Record a dry track from a DI along with miking the amp. You can use the dry track to re-amp latter if needed.

 

[miroslav]

Is there something you feel you NEED to do to the guitar tracks?

There is no particular "electric guitar" SOP...it all depends how it sounds and how you want it to sound within your mix.

Also...giving adivce without hearing how they sound is a bit difficult.

 

[Sprakey]

Thank you for your advise.

I was just concerned that like I've read for vocal tracks there might be "standard" tricks of the trade for guitars. Like using a compressor to "lift" them from the mix etc etc.

But if not, that's a relief. I'm just going to apply some eq as you say. Hopefully get rid of the slight "boxy" sound of the amp.

Thanks again.