An Intro to Recording for Complete Newbies

Have you always wanted to record yourself playing an instrument, singing, or writing a song? There’s never been a better time to start. The technology needed to record and produce a CD has become extremely affordable and accessible to anyone with a computer. In a series of posts on my blog, I’ll guide you through the process. If you have questions, be sure to leave a comment below and check back often. I’d love to hear from you. Here is a brief overview of the recording process in its simplest form.

You Get an Idea to Write a Hit Song

Pre-Production

This is the planning and brainstorming phase. Pre-production can involve everything from songwriting, rehearsing, and beat-making to booking studio time and finding talent.

Production and Recording

This is where everything is recorded and created to make the song. All ideas are captured and assembled during this stage.

Mixing

Mixing involves taking all the recorded material and making it work together. This includes balancing sounds, removing unwanted noises, adjusting volume, adding effects, and arranging. This is where everything comes together.

Mastering

Mastering is the final adjustment to the finished mix before the song is duplicated, distributed, and played on the radio.

Your final CD or MP3 is created and ready to share with the world.

Modern Music Production with a DAW

In modern music production, using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), these distinct parts of the process often overlap. Technology has combined the mixer, recorder, and instruments into one package. All you need is an idea, and you can seamlessly switch from a large mixing project to recording a virtual (computerized) version of an instrument. Computer programs like Pro Tools, Logic Studio, Cubase, Sonar, FL Studio, Live, GarageBand, and Digital Performer are all examples of DAWs. Each one has its own strengths and fan base. The choice of which one to use is up to you.