|
Simply Music All genres, hot artists, track ID and general discussion |
|
LinkBack | Topic Tools | Rate Topic |
|
|||
Recording Questions
Ok i would like to know if neone can explain in a detailed message how to record a mix onto my computer.
and everytime i tape one of my mixes on a tape player it hear a humming noise when i play it back wut is that?? thnx |
|
|||
Step 1
Mixing into the CPU:
First you need to find out if your soundcard has a line-input (most SoundBlaster’s do...mine does). All you'll basically be doing is running an rca into your soundcard. The soundcard has a small input hole so you'll need to convert the standard dual red/white or red/yellow rca to a single 1/8 plug (can be purchased at radio shack). *Make sure it's a stereo tip not mono (stereo always has 2 stripes). Next you'll need some sort of software to get you started. Creative labs have a super cheap recording program but you'll need something a bit better to edit the final piece. I recommend Sound Forge or Cool Edit Pro. Both are fairly easy to operate and with a short amount of reading you'll be ready to make cd's. I learned from making mistakes so you might have to tinker with it a few times to get it perfect Getting started... Once you have your equipment setup (decks and mixer) run a cable from your mixer which should come from the MASTER out. Try to only use 1 cable. Extensions will only result in a loss of sound. Once you've added your RCA-1/8 stereo plug find the hole in the soundcard that says line-input. You might have to look in the manual for this. *Make sure all your equipment is off* Next you'll have to check your audio settings on the CPU to make sure the connection is live. I have windows 98 and it's START-PROGRAMS-ACESSORIES-ENTERTAINMENT-VOLUME CONTROL. Look for your line-in balance. Do yourself a favor and make sure it's not maxed. Once you're ready and certain you've hooked it up right power the unit on, drop some vinyl and see if you're getting a signal. Ok...you've gotten a signal: Now your ready to record....Well almost ready.... By now you've hopefully installed your software...in this software you'll need to find the recording LEVEL volume tab. Adjust the tab accordingly so the reds aren't too high and lay down a piece of vinyl and watch the reds. Once you've selected the right volume let it record for 30 seconds. Hit stop and then play it back. How does it sound? If it's distorted you'll have to adjust the recording volume. Need more help? Ask here.... |
|
|||
Making good mix tapes
Tricks & Help:
If you have the time and equipment make a cd demo 1st then record that to tape. Main reason is you already know the cd is good and it won't hide some flaws that tapes do. If it's a tape on the fly.....and this guy needs it tomorrow... A) Make sure all wires are connected properly (grounded) and aren't touching each other if you can help it. Cleaner you have the wires the less hum you'll get. B) Before laying down each track, wipe the record off with a proper piece of fabric (like sunglasses wipes) or vinyl brush. This will eliminate the amount of crackle. All types of debris are notoriously known for getting on records. C) The type of tapes is important. I used to use Sony metal tapes. They're a little more expensive but also sound a lot better than those tapes from the dollar store. D) Recording Device: If you're using dad's ancient stereo you'll need to set the tape recording button. Check the tape and then select posi, metal, NR etc...*Most new units are auto... E) Invest in a good RCA cable. Go to a car/audio store and buy a 5-6ft gold-tipped RCA cable. Mine are phoenix gold with 24k tips. F) Dad’s ancient recording stereo probably hasn't been tape cleaned since he's dropped acid so make sure you buy a tape cleaner for the stereo. G) Watch your levels. Don't KNOB-GOBBLE! Promoters don't want to hear you playing with the cuts/kills. Less volume kills the better. Chances are the 1st time they listen to it they'll only be fast forwarding it or jumping to the MIXES. H) MAKE SURE YOU'RE 1ST MIX IS PERFECT. Promoters will rarely listen to the entire thing if the 1st mix is wack... Hope that helps... ~fORM |
|
|||
I use cooledit personally, it works really well. Form gave an excellent recap of all the info you could possibly want.
In addition, keep in mind that certain records are weaker than others. Before you do your mix, you should record a sample of each track at the same volume level, and thereby see how much you need to adjust your gains for each track. This is especially irritating for myself, as one of my cartridges is more sensitive than the other one. Normally takes me a couple of passes of the mix before I get all of the f--king leveling issues sorted out :P Also, DO NOT SKIP THE UNDO FILE. I banged off another mix on Thursday, it was perfect, so I was going to adjust the volume and then burn the CD. I gave it a 10db boost, and being the lazy impatient bastard that I am I skipped doing an undo file. The 10db boost turned out to be way too much and it badly clipped my entire mix, yay me, and with no undo file I had to trash it. |
|
|||
The damn humm
Good directions, form!
But to get rid of the hum check: That your entire rig is properly grounded. Computer, Decks, Mixer, everything. Stereo. EVERYTHING. Test your cables. Sometimes the RCA > 1/8 inch adaptor or an extension gives the hum. Sometimes it goes by an AC cable coming out of the wall and creates a hum. One thing to add to Form's recount is in Start > Control Panel > Multimedia In Recording > Advanced Choose Record Quality and MAX it. peacout |