New to audio recording... where should I begin?

medicmatt · Post by **medicmatt** » Mon Nov 27, 2006 9:42 pm

Hello to all in the general recording index -

This is my first time posting here. I've had some experience in the past with MIDI, and I've done a lot of live music over the last 12 years, but I'm just starting to get into the vast and foreign world of audio recording. I'm looking to do some film scoring, as well as recording original songs. I have so many questions... mic placement, use of reverb, EQ, compression, other plug ins, how do I train my ear for mixing and mastering - and I know there is so much I don't know about to even ask all the right questions.

Is there a book or instructional DVD or something that anyone would recommend to me? What's the best way to learn how to make something sound like its supposed to sound?

I guess what I'm asking is simply, where do I begin?

gearboy · Post by **gearboy** » Mon Nov 27, 2006 9:59 pm

Unicornation is mighty grand, but I feel for things outside of the realm of MOTU and DP, there's...

http://messageboard.tapeop.com/index.php

I went to school for music and recording back in the 1990s, and all of the recording students used to hang out and talk gear, techniques, etc all the time. I picked up a ton of knowledge that way. TapeOp is how I keep up now that I don't have a bunch of other engineers to talk to. So much knowledge on that forum (and here, too, at Unicornation!!!).

My advice to you is to read the TO messageboard, especially gear and techniques sections, and pick up a decent book on recording as well. Something textbook that deals with the basics of the physics of sound, types of microphones, types of outboard gear, etc. Even if you worked in live sound you may have missed some of the basics. It's always good to refresh.

But seriously, the TOMB changed my life.

Jeff

gregwhartley · Post by **gregwhartley** » Wed Nov 29, 2006 12:31 pm

While you're @ Tape Op's MB order a free subscription to their magazine too. There are aways great interviews with outstanding famous (and often not-so-famous) engineers with a lot of great tricks and stories to share.

As you start to experiment with different approaches and techniques to recording don't forget to share your experiences with your peers! A good engineer doesn't rely on secrets to make their mixes excellent, they themself are the secret ingredient.

-Greg

chrispick · Post by **chrispick** » Wed Nov 29, 2006 12:49 pm

If you're seeking decent, fundamental primer stuff, check this:

http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm