Recording Guide

Getting Started with Recording

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding the recording process is essential for getting the best results from your sessions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about recording at Sotto Voce Studios.

Before Your Session

Preparation Checklist

• Know Your Material: Practice your parts until you can play them comfortably
• Tune Your Instruments: Fresh strings, properly tuned drums, and calibrated instruments save studio time
• Prepare Your Gear: Bring backups of cables, strings, picks, and any essential equipment
• Get Rest: A tired voice or tired hands don't perform well - get good sleep before your session
• Communicate: Let your engineer know your vision, reference tracks, and any special requirements

The Recording Chain

Understanding the signal path helps you appreciate what your engineer is doing and how to get the best sound.

1. Source

Your instrument or voice - the quality starts here. A well-maintained instrument and good technique are irreplaceable.

2. Microphone

The right mic makes a huge difference. Different mics capture different frequencies and characteristics.

3. Preamp

Boosts the microphone signal to line level. Different preamps add different coloration - our studio features Neve, API, and SSL preamps.

4. Conversion

Converts analog audio to digital. Our studio uses high-end converters for pristine sound quality.

5. DAW

Digital Audio Workstation - where your recording comes together. We support Pro Tools.

Recording Tips by Instrument

Vocals

• Stay a consistent distance from the microphone (usually 6-12 inches)
• Use a pop filter to reduce plosives (P's and B's)
• Stay hydrated - room temperature water is best
• Take breaks to rest your voice
• Sing past the microphone, not directly into it, for smoother highs

Electric Guitar

• Mic placement changes everything - start with the mic at the edge of the speaker cone
• Try multiple mics (dynamic + ribbon) for fuller sound
• Check phase alignment when using multiple mics
• Fresh strings make a noticeable difference

Acoustic Guitar

• Position the mic around the 12th fret for balanced tone
• Aim slightly toward the sound hole for more body
• A small condenser mic works best
• New strings are essential for bright, clear tone

Drums

• Well-tuned drums save hours of mixing time
• Each drum typically gets its own mic
• Overhead mics capture the overall kit and cymbals
• Room mics add space and natural reverb
• Phase alignment between mics is crucial

Common Recording Terms

• Gain Staging: Setting proper levels throughout the signal chain to avoid distortion
• Headroom: The space between your peak level and 0dB (digital maximum)
• Tracking: The act of recording
• Overdub: Recording additional parts after the basic tracks
• Punch In: Recording over a specific section while the tape (or DAW) rolls
• Comping: Combining the best parts of multiple takes

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