How to Record and Mix Great Vocals

by Craig Anderton

Overview

Vocals tell the story that make the all-important connection between singer and listener, but recording a vocal isn't as simple as just putting a mic in front of someone and hoping for the best. This book – written in a clear, practical, non-intimidating style – covers all aspects of creating great vocals including:

• How to choose the right mic

• Mic placement

• Microphone accessories like cables and pop filters

• Mic preamps

• How to take maximum advantage of composite recording

• Editing vocals digitally to prepare them for the best possible mix

• Using processors (such as equalization, dynamics, and time-based effects) during mixdown to enhance vocal quality

• Automation

• Techniques for layered vocals, and more

However, what makes this book truly special is that it goes beyond technology to include valuable tips and techniques on how to obtain the best vocal performances. Topics include how to connect with listeners, ways to convey a singer's personality, "emotional" dynamic range, and how to know when a take is the right take.

Loaded with illustrations and featuring the judicious use of sidebars to give details on selected topics for those who want to know "why" as well as "how," How to Record Great Vocals is the key to transforming raw vocals into satisfying, emotional experiences.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781493082612
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication date:	12/21/2023
Series:	The Musician's Guide to Home Recording
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	96
File size:	3 MB

About the Author

Craig Anderton is an internationally recognized authority on music and technology. He has played on, produced, or mastered over 20 major label recordings, did session work in New York in the 1970s on guitar and keyboards, played Carnegie Hall, and more recently, mastered well over a hundred tracks for various artists. His onstage career spans from the 60s to current, EDM-oriented solo performances. As an author, he co-founded Electronic Musician magazine, and has written over 35 books on musical electronics and over a thousand articles. He has also lectured on technology and the arts in 10 countries, 38 U.S. states, and three languages.

Table of Contents

Introduction. About This Book
The Impact of Great Vocals
How to Use This Book
Tips and References

Chapter 1. Your Mic Is Your Instrument
Dynamic vs. Condenser Mics
The Importance of Room Acoustics
Connecting Mics
Mic Preamps and Setting Levels
Accessories
Key Takeaways

Chapter 2. Recording Techniques
To Hold or Not to Hold?
Mic Technique
Monitoring Your Vocals
Recording a Vocal
Overdubbing Vocals
Punching Vocals
Composite Vocals
Key Takeaways

Chapter 3. Preparing Your Vocals for the Mix
Step 1: Remove Hiss
Step 2: Delete Silences
Step 3: Reduce Breath Noises and Inhales
Step 4: Reduce Plosive Severity
Step 4: Phrase-by-Phrase Normalization/Gain Changes
Step 5: De-Essing
Step 6: Pitch Correction .
Step 7: Tweak the Vibrato
Time to Start Mixing
Key Takeaways

Chapter 4. Equalization
Equalizer Responses
Main EQ Parameters
What You’ll End Up Equalizing .
Dynamic Equalization
Automated Equalization .
Typical EQ Curves for Vocals
Key Takeaways

Chapter 5. Dynamics Processing
How Dynamics Processors Work
Types of Dynamics Processors
Sidechaining
Key Takeaways

Chapter 6. Reverb and Delay
Reverb Processing
Delay Processing .
Key Takeaways .

Chapter 7. Automating Parameter Changes
Automation Basics
Automation Methods .
Automating Effects .
Key Takeaways

Chapter 8. Double-Tracking, Harmonizing, and Layering Vocals
Automatic Double-Tracking (ADT) Plug-Ins
Pseudo-ADT with Pitch Correction
Shifting Pitch to Create Pseudo-Double Tracking
How to Mix Double-Tracked Vocals
The Doubled Vocal Fix
Creating Harmonies with Pitch Correction Software
Techniques for Layered Vocals .
Key Takeaways

Chapter 9. Vocal Performance Tips
Emotional Dynamic Range
Avoiding the Vocal Disconnect .
The Performance Curve