Digital
audio workstations, software & audio interfaces
This
area is focused on DAW recording software and
hardware used for recording, mixing, editing and
mastering on your computer.
In
the old days we recorded to tape. In pro
circles some still use tape for its creative options
but in most cases the World has moved on to the
DAW or 'digital audio workstation'.
We
can now do much more than record, we can edit
and mix in the box. We can use 'plug in's
which may be software effects processors, auto
tune and even samplers and virtual instruments.
High
end DAW's are still quite expensive but now you
can put a mini recording studio in to your computer.
Just add microphones and monitors - and cables
- and you're set to go.
Just
a word of caution. Technology moves forwards
fast and today's top end system is tomorrow's
door stop but if you make sure that the equipment
does what you need of it, that doesn't really
matter.
Another
thought. Many producers tend to prefer to
not 'mix in the box' and take the individual outputs
or 'stems' in to analog summing amps or mixing
desks to give a warmer and more vibey sound.
We will look at these options on other pages.
In addition to this, many producers prefer to
control the workstation with a 'controller' which
lets you use real faders to play with the levels
rather than use a mouse. It makes it more
human.
So,
the basic requirements are not that complicated.
You need a computer with suitable software and
interfaces to get the signals from instruments
and mics in and for you to monitor the recorded
or mixed sound.
Software
packages vary greatly in price and complexity
so spend a bit of time looking at what you need.
Just remember, if you're a musician recording
at home, the more technology that you're playing
with, the more you can become distracted.
Sometimes, a simpler system is better - then you
can go to a studio with a great sounding space
to do the big recording, or even take your project
to mix.
If
you're putting a studio together you will need
microphones, cables and monitors. Follow
these shortcut's to save time:
Microphone pre amplifiers available in the shop
Aphex
ART
Avalon
Focusrite
Joe Meek
M Audio
ProSonus
Studio Projects
Complete
range of microphone pre amplifiers are in the
shop here
If
you're looking for a good mic to plug in to your
mic pre take a look here:
Dynamic
Microphones - Studio
dynamic mics - Stage
dynamic mics
Condenser Microphones - Large
capsule mics - Small
capsule condenser mics
Ribbon Microphones - Ribbon
microphone
Studio
monitor options available here:
Nearfield
and larger self powered Loudspeakers
Active
and passive Subwoofers
Passive
studio monitors
Amplifiers
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to MAIN equipment area
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