Make Your Own Beats - It's Easier Than You Think!
By Erik Cale
No matter if you just want to have fun, become an artist, or be a producer, you can make your own beats to help you achieve that goal.
It won't happen without first setting up your shop. Proper equipment is an absolute must if your going to make your own beats high quality.
Most believe when they hear the term 'make your own beats' that a large cash layout is directly behind it. Not true. For very little cost you can be up and running on your own PC in just one day.
For beginners looking for starter info, you're gonna need a few things.
1. A soundcard - Your PC has to have the ability to play sounds.
2. Music Creation Software - There are plenty to choose from, ranging from expensive to inexpensive. You need to match one to your situation and style of music.
3. A sound bank - These are tunes that you will use parts of once you're set up to make your own beats.
There are plenty of sites to assist you depending on what level you are. Once you learn how to make your own beats, you will want to advance to the next stage which is applying them to a track. Making your own beats is easy and fun and can also be lucrative if you're good enough. Don't be intimidated by the newness of it, jump in like you're a master and take advantage of the networking opportunities that go along with making your own beats.
If you want to make your own beats you should take a look at my blog - I'll show you where you can download over 100,000 (growing daily) high quality beats which cover every style of music you can think of.
They're full studio quality, and sound freakin' awesome. Click here to go there
now.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erik_Cale
10 April 2009
Acoustic Guitar Chords - Learning How to Play Guitar Chords
Acoustic Guitar Chords - Learning How to Play Guitar Chords
By Bernice Eker
Playing the guitar is every boy's dream even if they can't be good at it.
In high school, it is very rare that boys will not even attempt to learn to play the guitar. For this reason, music schools are about dime-a-dozen. In every city, you will also find freelance teachers who will show young people several acoustic guitar lessons.
Although it may be said that only a few actually persevere to learn how to play the guitar, there is no shortage of good guitar players around the world. Perhaps guitar playing is more popular because guitars are cheaper than the piano. And in the world of rock and roll culture, guitar looks manlier than other musical instruments. People want to identify with rock gods so guitar playing is almost inevitably where they go.
So what are the first acoustic guitar lessons?
Perhaps there are many. One will be taught to identify the parts of the guitar like the body, the neck, and so on. One will also be taught how to string a guitar properly and tune it, too.
Ultimately, the learner will be taught how to read guitar chords by himself. This is the only way one can learn how to play the guitar. Once a student is already efficient in reading guitar chords from chord books, he can then move on to practicing and playing by himself. Keep in mind that there are beginner guitar chords to let the student get used to the feel of the strings. This is painful at first and should be mastered before moving to the power chords.
Reading guitar chords will not be possible without guitar diagrams. There are different families of chords that one should know, too, other than the fact that there is a correct position of every finger for every chord. One should also understand what a fret is, what the dots are for, how to count frets in the neck, and so on.
Guitar diagrams are shown in squares with lines that represent the guitar frets and the strings. The bottom line is the first string, the thinnest one, and as you move up, the lines represent the strings up to the base. This is why guitar chord diagrams have six lines. This represents the six strings of the ordinary guitar.
The dot shows where the string should be pressed. If you will carefully observe, here are numbers on top of every black dot. The number represents the finger that will press the string on the position of the fret from the head of the guitar neck. If the number says three on the fourth fret and the dot is on the third line, this means you have to press the third string on the fourth fret with your third finger. To count, your forefinger is the first number; the middle finger is number two, and so on.
One you are done with your first set of acoustic guitar lessons and once you are efficient in reading guitar chords, this is the time you will be able to play as much songs as you want from music books.
All you need to do is to look up the chord, press it, memorize it, and make sure it sounds right with the tune you are playing. Soon, you will find yourself playing without the help of a chord book at all.
STOP!
Breaking News at Jamorama
FREE Guitar Lessons jam packed with step by step instructions, tutorials, jam tracks and famous songs.
Learn to play like The Eagles, Green Day, Pink Floyd, Guns 'n Roses, Jimi Hendrix at Jamorama
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bernice_Eker
By Bernice Eker
Playing the guitar is every boy's dream even if they can't be good at it.
In high school, it is very rare that boys will not even attempt to learn to play the guitar. For this reason, music schools are about dime-a-dozen. In every city, you will also find freelance teachers who will show young people several acoustic guitar lessons.
Although it may be said that only a few actually persevere to learn how to play the guitar, there is no shortage of good guitar players around the world. Perhaps guitar playing is more popular because guitars are cheaper than the piano. And in the world of rock and roll culture, guitar looks manlier than other musical instruments. People want to identify with rock gods so guitar playing is almost inevitably where they go.
So what are the first acoustic guitar lessons?
Perhaps there are many. One will be taught to identify the parts of the guitar like the body, the neck, and so on. One will also be taught how to string a guitar properly and tune it, too.
Ultimately, the learner will be taught how to read guitar chords by himself. This is the only way one can learn how to play the guitar. Once a student is already efficient in reading guitar chords from chord books, he can then move on to practicing and playing by himself. Keep in mind that there are beginner guitar chords to let the student get used to the feel of the strings. This is painful at first and should be mastered before moving to the power chords.
Reading guitar chords will not be possible without guitar diagrams. There are different families of chords that one should know, too, other than the fact that there is a correct position of every finger for every chord. One should also understand what a fret is, what the dots are for, how to count frets in the neck, and so on.
Guitar diagrams are shown in squares with lines that represent the guitar frets and the strings. The bottom line is the first string, the thinnest one, and as you move up, the lines represent the strings up to the base. This is why guitar chord diagrams have six lines. This represents the six strings of the ordinary guitar.
The dot shows where the string should be pressed. If you will carefully observe, here are numbers on top of every black dot. The number represents the finger that will press the string on the position of the fret from the head of the guitar neck. If the number says three on the fourth fret and the dot is on the third line, this means you have to press the third string on the fourth fret with your third finger. To count, your forefinger is the first number; the middle finger is number two, and so on.
One you are done with your first set of acoustic guitar lessons and once you are efficient in reading guitar chords, this is the time you will be able to play as much songs as you want from music books.
All you need to do is to look up the chord, press it, memorize it, and make sure it sounds right with the tune you are playing. Soon, you will find yourself playing without the help of a chord book at all.
STOP!
Breaking News at Jamorama
FREE Guitar Lessons jam packed with step by step instructions, tutorials, jam tracks and famous songs.
Learn to play like The Eagles, Green Day, Pink Floyd, Guns 'n Roses, Jimi Hendrix at Jamorama
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bernice_Eker
09 April 2009
Recording Demos is Easy - Start Recording a Demo With the Best Demo Recorder You Can Afford
Recording Demos is Easy - Start Recording a Demo With the Best Demo Recorder You Can Afford
By Ed Byrd
Difficulty in Recording a Demo / Recording Demos is now a thing of the past, with great recognition to the production of the affordable Demo Recorder equipments and the abundance of knowledge in the topic made available over the internet. Basic demo recording in home studios can be accomplished through the use of inexpensive home studio equipment and a decent set of skills.
What Do You Want?
Do you have a goal for your music career (if you don't, you really should get one)? The same goes with your demo. If you think a simple demo would do your voice better justice than a top of the line professional music production, then record away in your home recording studio. Checking your drum tracks would be a great start. Remember that you're getting ready for a demo, so the simpler it is, the better.
Flash Can Be Trashy
The bass in your home recoding studio does not need to sound just ok; it needs to have the correct feel as well. It needs to be in tune and on time. A piano or rhythm guitar piece should complement the overall track as well. Remember to check if these sounds mesh so that you can fix a problem in your home recording studio before the vocals come in, or else you might need an overall do-over which would cost you more time, effort, and of course, money.
Vital Vocals
Make sure that the vocals are in great shape, be it from a band or a solo artist. The voice in the home studio demo more often than not holds the whole piece together. Minor instrument screw ups can be overseen, but this would not be the case with vocals.
Stand-Out Not!
Shy away from self-centered solos. Great lead instruments are crucial to the success of a home studio record but when they stand out too much that they overpower the vocals, the song as a whole loses its direction. The human voice should always be the center of attention in sound demos and the instruments should put emphasis on it. Vocals should always be the center of attention in demos as it delivers the essence of the song.
Did It Pass?
Your gut says it all. People can lie to you about a bad record, but by and large you instantly know it if something is off with a track. If you heard the final mix and did not like certain parts, chances are others will not fancy it much as well no matter much others tell you that "it is ok!", you will get a nagging feeling that your home studio demo is missing something.
Sure a new home studio mix would cost you more time, effort, and patience, but it is better to act on your gut feel than to completely ignore it. After all, it is better to send out audio demos that you are proud of instead of regrets in the form of CDs.
Ed Byrd is a Home Recording enthusiast. You can find more on Recording a Demo, Recording Demos and the best Demo Recorder on his Home Recording Site
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ed_Byrd
By Ed Byrd
Difficulty in Recording a Demo / Recording Demos is now a thing of the past, with great recognition to the production of the affordable Demo Recorder equipments and the abundance of knowledge in the topic made available over the internet. Basic demo recording in home studios can be accomplished through the use of inexpensive home studio equipment and a decent set of skills.
What Do You Want?
Do you have a goal for your music career (if you don't, you really should get one)? The same goes with your demo. If you think a simple demo would do your voice better justice than a top of the line professional music production, then record away in your home recording studio. Checking your drum tracks would be a great start. Remember that you're getting ready for a demo, so the simpler it is, the better.
Flash Can Be Trashy
The bass in your home recoding studio does not need to sound just ok; it needs to have the correct feel as well. It needs to be in tune and on time. A piano or rhythm guitar piece should complement the overall track as well. Remember to check if these sounds mesh so that you can fix a problem in your home recording studio before the vocals come in, or else you might need an overall do-over which would cost you more time, effort, and of course, money.
Vital Vocals
Make sure that the vocals are in great shape, be it from a band or a solo artist. The voice in the home studio demo more often than not holds the whole piece together. Minor instrument screw ups can be overseen, but this would not be the case with vocals.
Stand-Out Not!
Shy away from self-centered solos. Great lead instruments are crucial to the success of a home studio record but when they stand out too much that they overpower the vocals, the song as a whole loses its direction. The human voice should always be the center of attention in sound demos and the instruments should put emphasis on it. Vocals should always be the center of attention in demos as it delivers the essence of the song.
Did It Pass?
Your gut says it all. People can lie to you about a bad record, but by and large you instantly know it if something is off with a track. If you heard the final mix and did not like certain parts, chances are others will not fancy it much as well no matter much others tell you that "it is ok!", you will get a nagging feeling that your home studio demo is missing something.
Sure a new home studio mix would cost you more time, effort, and patience, but it is better to act on your gut feel than to completely ignore it. After all, it is better to send out audio demos that you are proud of instead of regrets in the form of CDs.
Ed Byrd is a Home Recording enthusiast. You can find more on Recording a Demo, Recording Demos and the best Demo Recorder on his Home Recording Site
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ed_Byrd
08 April 2009
Top Tips & Tricks For Recording Your Vocals
Top Tips & Tricks For Recording Your Vocals
By Jimmy CL Newson
This is for all you do-it-yourself-ers out there. Recording vocals is the trickiest part of recording a CD, and because it is the last step in the recording process it pays to get it right. So, before you start crooning your soon-to-be smash joint, you will want to make sure that everything in your studio is set up correctly. Following are a few tips that will help you do it right the first time.
#1. Get your recording ready for your voice. This simply means that before you add your voice to the recording... have everything else in place...your instrumentation is completed and mixed to perfection. I know you're eager to hear yourself on that money-maker but if you fail to do this... you are in for dismal failure at worst, confusion and remixes at best. So, take my advise and don't put the cart (your voice) before the horse (the instrumentation) if you want to create a masterpiece.
#2. Prepare an enclosed space to record your voice. After you have recorded and mixed your instrumentation...it is time to prepare your studio for recording vocals. Think old- fashioned-phone-booth-with-sound-deadening-insulation and you will get the picture, although the space doesn't need to be quite that condensed. In other words, you want a space that is enclosed and muffled in such a way that doesn't cause the voice to bounce off the walls from the resonance. A smaller room does this better than a large room.
#3. Use the best microphone that you can afford as the quality of your microphone... (and the way you use it) will ultimately determine the sound quality for your vocal recording. While the microphone doesn't have to be expensive, you should avoid low-cost bargain-basement models. Although professional studios tend to use capacitor microphones, a good back-electret or a dynamic vocal microphone can produce excellent results.
#4. Experiment with the placement of the microphone. Some singers will be okay with 6 inches from the mouth while others may need to be closer to the microphone. The microphone should be set in place to pick up all sides of the voice without picking up all the other sounds in the room. Also, the more enclosed and deadened the sound (as mentioned before), the easier it will be to capture the voice.
#5. Use a pop filter - not a foam mic cover. The pop filter will eliminate many of the hissing sounds created by s's and pop sounds made by b's and p's.
#6. Prevent "red zone" peaking. When a voice goes into the red zone it has gone past the maximum allowable volume. To keep this from happening you will need to keep the voice condensed in a specific area. This is why compressors were created. However, the singer can also help with this by pulling back from the mic slightly when singing louder or leaning into the mic for softer, more intimate phrases. Using the pop filter will keep you from getting too close to the mic and this is a good thing for beginners.
#7. Your voice and effects. Don't go overboard with EQ and reverb while recording. As a matter of fact, you should record the vocal as dry as possible. As with instrumentation you may also want to consider noise gates, which stops the sound from resonating before it is recorded. This is helpful if the voice naturally resonates by having a cut off point where the resonance will stop, making everything clear instead of sounding like it echoes. However, as with the other vocal effects, be careful when applying noise gates as you don't want to create an unnatural sound. It is best to use effects and noise gates after the voice is recorded as it can then be treated like any other instrument, meaning you can normalize the sound waves, manipulating the volume and gain.
#8. After the recording is finished you can manipulate the sound, adding reverb, flanges, autotune, etc. The degree of manipulation depends on the type of voice you have and the effect that you want to achieve. Since the recording is finished you can experiment here, first analyzing the type of voice you are working with before adding effects such as reverb in the mix. For example, if the voice has a strong resonance, reverb will make it sound like an echo. Adding resonance to a clearer voice, however, will add a little spark to the mix.
As you can see... recording vocals doesn't have to be hard and complex. Just think of it as putting the icing on the cake. Give yourself room to experiment... and allow yourself the freedom to be different. By taking the time to understand the process... and following the tips outlined here... you will be sure to get the exact sound you are looking for every time.
Jimmy "CL" Newson
Music Independence Summit Connection http://musicindependenceonline.com
I have over 17 years experience dealing in all aspects of the music industry from audio and video production to marketing and promotions. I am currently working on projects involving internet television, internet radio and live music performances across the United States. My primary focus in on the independent music community. For more information, please visit our website. If you are involved in the independent community or are an independent artists, check us out.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_CL_Newson
By Jimmy CL Newson
This is for all you do-it-yourself-ers out there. Recording vocals is the trickiest part of recording a CD, and because it is the last step in the recording process it pays to get it right. So, before you start crooning your soon-to-be smash joint, you will want to make sure that everything in your studio is set up correctly. Following are a few tips that will help you do it right the first time.
#1. Get your recording ready for your voice. This simply means that before you add your voice to the recording... have everything else in place...your instrumentation is completed and mixed to perfection. I know you're eager to hear yourself on that money-maker but if you fail to do this... you are in for dismal failure at worst, confusion and remixes at best. So, take my advise and don't put the cart (your voice) before the horse (the instrumentation) if you want to create a masterpiece.
#2. Prepare an enclosed space to record your voice. After you have recorded and mixed your instrumentation...it is time to prepare your studio for recording vocals. Think old- fashioned-phone-booth-with-sound-deadening-insulation and you will get the picture, although the space doesn't need to be quite that condensed. In other words, you want a space that is enclosed and muffled in such a way that doesn't cause the voice to bounce off the walls from the resonance. A smaller room does this better than a large room.
#3. Use the best microphone that you can afford as the quality of your microphone... (and the way you use it) will ultimately determine the sound quality for your vocal recording. While the microphone doesn't have to be expensive, you should avoid low-cost bargain-basement models. Although professional studios tend to use capacitor microphones, a good back-electret or a dynamic vocal microphone can produce excellent results.
#4. Experiment with the placement of the microphone. Some singers will be okay with 6 inches from the mouth while others may need to be closer to the microphone. The microphone should be set in place to pick up all sides of the voice without picking up all the other sounds in the room. Also, the more enclosed and deadened the sound (as mentioned before), the easier it will be to capture the voice.
#5. Use a pop filter - not a foam mic cover. The pop filter will eliminate many of the hissing sounds created by s's and pop sounds made by b's and p's.
#6. Prevent "red zone" peaking. When a voice goes into the red zone it has gone past the maximum allowable volume. To keep this from happening you will need to keep the voice condensed in a specific area. This is why compressors were created. However, the singer can also help with this by pulling back from the mic slightly when singing louder or leaning into the mic for softer, more intimate phrases. Using the pop filter will keep you from getting too close to the mic and this is a good thing for beginners.
#7. Your voice and effects. Don't go overboard with EQ and reverb while recording. As a matter of fact, you should record the vocal as dry as possible. As with instrumentation you may also want to consider noise gates, which stops the sound from resonating before it is recorded. This is helpful if the voice naturally resonates by having a cut off point where the resonance will stop, making everything clear instead of sounding like it echoes. However, as with the other vocal effects, be careful when applying noise gates as you don't want to create an unnatural sound. It is best to use effects and noise gates after the voice is recorded as it can then be treated like any other instrument, meaning you can normalize the sound waves, manipulating the volume and gain.
#8. After the recording is finished you can manipulate the sound, adding reverb, flanges, autotune, etc. The degree of manipulation depends on the type of voice you have and the effect that you want to achieve. Since the recording is finished you can experiment here, first analyzing the type of voice you are working with before adding effects such as reverb in the mix. For example, if the voice has a strong resonance, reverb will make it sound like an echo. Adding resonance to a clearer voice, however, will add a little spark to the mix.
As you can see... recording vocals doesn't have to be hard and complex. Just think of it as putting the icing on the cake. Give yourself room to experiment... and allow yourself the freedom to be different. By taking the time to understand the process... and following the tips outlined here... you will be sure to get the exact sound you are looking for every time.
Jimmy "CL" Newson
Music Independence Summit Connection http://musicindependenceonline.com
I have over 17 years experience dealing in all aspects of the music industry from audio and video production to marketing and promotions. I am currently working on projects involving internet television, internet radio and live music performances across the United States. My primary focus in on the independent music community. For more information, please visit our website. If you are involved in the independent community or are an independent artists, check us out.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_CL_Newson
07 April 2009
Midi Keyboards and Controllers - Must Haves For the Avid Musician
Midi Keyboards and Controllers - Must Haves For the Avid Musician
By Darren W Chow
From amateurs to professionals, avid musicians have become increasingly aware of the usefulness of MIDI keyboard controllers. These devices, unlike other types of electronic keyboards, are used in all forms of digital music creation to synthesize instruments and beats. Electronic keyboards, on the other hand, replicate (or digitize) the sound of a piano.
MIDI controllers often resemble electronic keyboards to offer the full range of notes and also have a series of knobs and buttons that can be used to manipulate and alter the resulting sounds. With these controllers and specialized computer software digital musicians can add a wide variety of sound alterations on the fly.
While nearly any MIDI controller will be an improvement over other methods of music creation, there are certain features that are more beneficial than others.
Pressure Sensitivity
Like electronic keyboards, MIDI controllers have varying sensitivity to their keys. The more sensitive the key, the lighter the touch that is required to activate it. The less sensitive the key, the heavier touch required. This lends itself to triggering unintentional sounds or missing beats completely. Excellent keyboard style MIDI controllers should have keys with roughly the same sensitivity of a well tuned piano. This will allow for the most intuitive, accurate use.
Number of Octaves
The best MIDI controllers offer more versatility with the number of notes. Five octaves, or 61 keys, is the most common and flexible keyboard layout. While smaller controllers are more portable and convenient for on the spot performances, the wider range of notes in larger controllers allows for more extensive sound creation.
Simple Setup
A MIDI controller won't do you much good if you can't figure out how to map it to your virtual instrument. High quality models will include easy to use software that will help you set up your controller quickly and easily. Another important feature is built in settings that will allow easy integration with other software. Both these features will help amateurs and experts learn their new controller and put it to the best use possible.
Flexible controls
While the number and sensitivity of keys and the ease of use are key features, the ability to manipulate sound is equally important. The main benefit of MIDI keyboard controllers is the option to alter the sound as its synthesized. The availability of modulation and pitch control knobs and sliders, as well as their usability, should be a major deciding factor before purchase. The best control knobs (or sliders) will, like the keys, be just the right sensitivity - not too easy to spin but not too hard - and offer a wide range of levels for the specific feature.
When the time comes to make a purchase, your application will make the most difference in your choice. Other options, including USB power and built in sound reproduction, are available to fit the needs of any digital musician.
Learn more about the Midi Keyboard.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_W_Chow
By Darren W Chow
From amateurs to professionals, avid musicians have become increasingly aware of the usefulness of MIDI keyboard controllers. These devices, unlike other types of electronic keyboards, are used in all forms of digital music creation to synthesize instruments and beats. Electronic keyboards, on the other hand, replicate (or digitize) the sound of a piano.
MIDI controllers often resemble electronic keyboards to offer the full range of notes and also have a series of knobs and buttons that can be used to manipulate and alter the resulting sounds. With these controllers and specialized computer software digital musicians can add a wide variety of sound alterations on the fly.
While nearly any MIDI controller will be an improvement over other methods of music creation, there are certain features that are more beneficial than others.
Pressure Sensitivity
Like electronic keyboards, MIDI controllers have varying sensitivity to their keys. The more sensitive the key, the lighter the touch that is required to activate it. The less sensitive the key, the heavier touch required. This lends itself to triggering unintentional sounds or missing beats completely. Excellent keyboard style MIDI controllers should have keys with roughly the same sensitivity of a well tuned piano. This will allow for the most intuitive, accurate use.
Number of Octaves
The best MIDI controllers offer more versatility with the number of notes. Five octaves, or 61 keys, is the most common and flexible keyboard layout. While smaller controllers are more portable and convenient for on the spot performances, the wider range of notes in larger controllers allows for more extensive sound creation.
Simple Setup
A MIDI controller won't do you much good if you can't figure out how to map it to your virtual instrument. High quality models will include easy to use software that will help you set up your controller quickly and easily. Another important feature is built in settings that will allow easy integration with other software. Both these features will help amateurs and experts learn their new controller and put it to the best use possible.
Flexible controls
While the number and sensitivity of keys and the ease of use are key features, the ability to manipulate sound is equally important. The main benefit of MIDI keyboard controllers is the option to alter the sound as its synthesized. The availability of modulation and pitch control knobs and sliders, as well as their usability, should be a major deciding factor before purchase. The best control knobs (or sliders) will, like the keys, be just the right sensitivity - not too easy to spin but not too hard - and offer a wide range of levels for the specific feature.
When the time comes to make a purchase, your application will make the most difference in your choice. Other options, including USB power and built in sound reproduction, are available to fit the needs of any digital musician.
Learn more about the Midi Keyboard.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_W_Chow
06 April 2009
Free Pro Tools Tutorial - How I Improved My Mix in One Evening
Free Pro Tools Tutorial - How I Improved My Mix in One Evening
By Ed Byrd
In this free Pro Tools tutorial I want to show that if you rush the song structure and instrument tracks, it will definitely show in the final mix. Spend time brainstorming with the writers and the people who are involved in the home audio recording process. Key points such as where the climax of the track should be and what instrument should be heard on certain lines, are important aspects not to be taken for granted.
Digidesign's ProTools can easily help you avoid committing such errors. You might need to shell out a few more bucks to buy this home studio gear but it is absolutely worth it. ProTools retails for $150 in most stores. Now why should you buy this digital audio workstation? Well for starters, it really helps heaps when it comes to home studio pre production. This phase is a crucial yet often neglected part of most home recordings. No matter how good your home audio recording project is, if you fail to pay attention to the details of this chapter in your digital audio production, chances are you will not come up with a brilliant home audio record and just end up using more valued resources.
Pro Tools Tutorial - Clutter-Free Home Recordings
With ProTools, you can take down the details of you home sound sessions neatly. With the use of a keyboard or an acoustic guitar, try to have the vocalist sing his lyrics without any over the top performance.
Have a blank ProTools session ready for your vocal recordings. You can also add a tempo ruler so that you can set the pace of the song, one that you think is a match for the lyrics and the genre it is classified under. If you want free professional video tutorials for ProTools, you can go to the London College of Music to check out their detailed lessons.
If the acoustic performance of the artist does not sound smashing, either you need to find a new song or tempo, or get a new vocalist. But if it all meshes together, lock it in so you will later have a good and clear idea of your song's structure.
Pro Tools Tutorial - What Are Your Specs?
ProTools, like most audio studio software, have standard requirements that you need to follow for it to work well. For starters, the current version of ProTools does not work on Windows Vista, XP, 2000, as well as Mac OS X. It does work on older models but it still needs at least 1 GB of RAM.
ProTools is unquestionably an industry standard digital recording software, widely used by both professional and home record studios.
ProTools Alternatives
There are other cross platform digital audio softwares that can be used aside from ProTools.
A few of the more remarkable computer programs for music are Cubase and Nuendo which were developed by Steinberg, a subsidiary company of Yamaha. It allows editing of home studio audio tracks, MIDI files, and other wide range music production related tasks. The digital audio editors are also considered industry staples for their stability and easy operation.
Ed Byrd is a Home Recording enthusiast. You can find more on Free Pro Tools ideas, and another Pro Tools Tutorial on his Home Recording Site
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ed_Byrd
By Ed Byrd
In this free Pro Tools tutorial I want to show that if you rush the song structure and instrument tracks, it will definitely show in the final mix. Spend time brainstorming with the writers and the people who are involved in the home audio recording process. Key points such as where the climax of the track should be and what instrument should be heard on certain lines, are important aspects not to be taken for granted.
Digidesign's ProTools can easily help you avoid committing such errors. You might need to shell out a few more bucks to buy this home studio gear but it is absolutely worth it. ProTools retails for $150 in most stores. Now why should you buy this digital audio workstation? Well for starters, it really helps heaps when it comes to home studio pre production. This phase is a crucial yet often neglected part of most home recordings. No matter how good your home audio recording project is, if you fail to pay attention to the details of this chapter in your digital audio production, chances are you will not come up with a brilliant home audio record and just end up using more valued resources.
Pro Tools Tutorial - Clutter-Free Home Recordings
With ProTools, you can take down the details of you home sound sessions neatly. With the use of a keyboard or an acoustic guitar, try to have the vocalist sing his lyrics without any over the top performance.
Have a blank ProTools session ready for your vocal recordings. You can also add a tempo ruler so that you can set the pace of the song, one that you think is a match for the lyrics and the genre it is classified under. If you want free professional video tutorials for ProTools, you can go to the London College of Music to check out their detailed lessons.
If the acoustic performance of the artist does not sound smashing, either you need to find a new song or tempo, or get a new vocalist. But if it all meshes together, lock it in so you will later have a good and clear idea of your song's structure.
Pro Tools Tutorial - What Are Your Specs?
ProTools, like most audio studio software, have standard requirements that you need to follow for it to work well. For starters, the current version of ProTools does not work on Windows Vista, XP, 2000, as well as Mac OS X. It does work on older models but it still needs at least 1 GB of RAM.
ProTools is unquestionably an industry standard digital recording software, widely used by both professional and home record studios.
ProTools Alternatives
There are other cross platform digital audio softwares that can be used aside from ProTools.
A few of the more remarkable computer programs for music are Cubase and Nuendo which were developed by Steinberg, a subsidiary company of Yamaha. It allows editing of home studio audio tracks, MIDI files, and other wide range music production related tasks. The digital audio editors are also considered industry staples for their stability and easy operation.
Ed Byrd is a Home Recording enthusiast. You can find more on Free Pro Tools ideas, and another Pro Tools Tutorial on his Home Recording Site
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ed_Byrd
05 April 2009
Virtual Studio Technology - VST Plugins
Virtual Studio Technology - VST Plugins
By Alan J Orr
One thing that makes digital recording even more rewarding, and more fun, is Virtual Studio Technology, or VST.
Im not going to get too technical with my definition here; I couldnt if i wanted to.
Virtual Studio Technology is software emulation of hardware devices, usually in two categories. Instruments, and effects.
The instrument VST's can simulate "real" instruments mostly due to another technology called sampling. A real instrument such as a piano is "sampled" by making many recordings of a real instrument. The instrument is recorded playing hard, and playing soft. Different nuances of the instrument are also recorded such as the fret noise of slipping your fingers on acoustic guitar strings. All of this is controlled by a MIDI controller. Usually a MIDI controller is a piano type keyboard, but it can be a guitar, and even a wind instrument. When you play a note on the keyboard, you are actually playing a recording of the note on a different instrument. You can play chopsticks on the piano keyboard and hear it as a harp, a guitar, or even a human voice!
Most of these VST's come on a CD or a DVD. It is not unusual for the files for a complicated instrument to over 5 gig in size.
There are complete orchestras available including sections and solo instruments, as well as individual instruments from all over the world. This technology is so common that you are hearing virtual instruments on pre-recorded music, on a daily basis.The amazing thing is that if the VST instrument has been constructed well, it really feels as if you are playing the instrument. VST instruments are inserted into special places in the DAW for recording. A VST can cost as little as $20.00, or many hundreds. There are many great free instruments as well.
The other main type of VST is an effect. This is an emulation of hardware audio effects such as reverb, delay and compression. There are a vast number of effects available. I should point out that these emulations both for instrument and effects are in most cases very accurate. I own a hardware synth and a VST of the same synth, and they are impossible to tell apart.
Also in the category of VST effects are programs that simulate guitar effects, amplifiers and stomp pedals. You can plug your guitar in dry and add a distortion pedal, delay, and the tone of a particular amplifier such as a Fender.
Many of these effects are added via the mixer view, especially when you are mixing down a finished product. There are special VST's for mastering as well. These are usually combinations of filters and effects that specialize in making a full mix.
Virtual Studio Technology really completes your digital home studio.
Alan Orr is a musician of over thirty years and a digital composer living in the mountains of New York State. This will be a series of articles on the subject of home digital recording. The next will focus on the Digital Audio Workstation software. You can find an easy guide to home digital recording at http://www.hotconcept.net You will cover all the essentials, from what you need to start, to quantizing your music, all in a couple of hours. http://www.hotconcept.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_J_Orr
By Alan J Orr
One thing that makes digital recording even more rewarding, and more fun, is Virtual Studio Technology, or VST.
Im not going to get too technical with my definition here; I couldnt if i wanted to.
Virtual Studio Technology is software emulation of hardware devices, usually in two categories. Instruments, and effects.
The instrument VST's can simulate "real" instruments mostly due to another technology called sampling. A real instrument such as a piano is "sampled" by making many recordings of a real instrument. The instrument is recorded playing hard, and playing soft. Different nuances of the instrument are also recorded such as the fret noise of slipping your fingers on acoustic guitar strings. All of this is controlled by a MIDI controller. Usually a MIDI controller is a piano type keyboard, but it can be a guitar, and even a wind instrument. When you play a note on the keyboard, you are actually playing a recording of the note on a different instrument. You can play chopsticks on the piano keyboard and hear it as a harp, a guitar, or even a human voice!
Most of these VST's come on a CD or a DVD. It is not unusual for the files for a complicated instrument to over 5 gig in size.
There are complete orchestras available including sections and solo instruments, as well as individual instruments from all over the world. This technology is so common that you are hearing virtual instruments on pre-recorded music, on a daily basis.The amazing thing is that if the VST instrument has been constructed well, it really feels as if you are playing the instrument. VST instruments are inserted into special places in the DAW for recording. A VST can cost as little as $20.00, or many hundreds. There are many great free instruments as well.
The other main type of VST is an effect. This is an emulation of hardware audio effects such as reverb, delay and compression. There are a vast number of effects available. I should point out that these emulations both for instrument and effects are in most cases very accurate. I own a hardware synth and a VST of the same synth, and they are impossible to tell apart.
Also in the category of VST effects are programs that simulate guitar effects, amplifiers and stomp pedals. You can plug your guitar in dry and add a distortion pedal, delay, and the tone of a particular amplifier such as a Fender.
Many of these effects are added via the mixer view, especially when you are mixing down a finished product. There are special VST's for mastering as well. These are usually combinations of filters and effects that specialize in making a full mix.
Virtual Studio Technology really completes your digital home studio.
Alan Orr is a musician of over thirty years and a digital composer living in the mountains of New York State. This will be a series of articles on the subject of home digital recording. The next will focus on the Digital Audio Workstation software. You can find an easy guide to home digital recording at http://www.hotconcept.net You will cover all the essentials, from what you need to start, to quantizing your music, all in a couple of hours. http://www.hotconcept.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_J_Orr
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