A Few Words on the Order of Recording

Usually, drums and percussion instruments are the first instruments to be recorded. The reasons for this: drums are usually the rhythm leaders; it is much easier for musicians recording later tracks to keep to the beat of the drums.

Computer Recording Gear Multitrack Recorders Mixers & Accessories

A drummer would find it very difficult to play along with a backing track recorded without percussion, due to the likely variations in the musicians' tempo. Furthermore, in order to accurately keep to a pre-established rhythm, a drummer would need the sound of the other instruments to be very loud to compete with their drum kit; apart from the possibility of the drum microphones picking up the sound of the other instruments from the drummer's headphones, prolonged exposure to such volume might very well damage their hearing. Also, it allows the drums to be recorded for a few seconds, then looped. Click tracks are also often used as the first sound to be recorded, especially when the drummer isn't available for the initial recording, and/or the final mix will be synced with motion picture and/or video images.

Also, though the drums might eventually be mixed down to a couple of tracks, each individual drum and percussion instrument might be initially recorded to its own individual track. The drums and percussion combined can occupy the largest number of tracks utilized in a recording. This is done so that each percussion instrument can be processed individually for maximum effect. A common percussion effect is the slow back and forth panning of a percussive instrument's sound in the stereo field from the left to the right channel in a song. Equalization (or EQ) is often used on individual drums, to bring out each one's characteristic sound.

The last tracks to be recorded are usually the vocals (though a temporary vocal track might be recorded early on either as a reference or to guide subsequent musicians, this is sometimes called a "Ghost Vocal" or "Scratch vocal"). One reason for this is that singers will often temper their vocal expression in accordance with the accompaniment.¹

Featured Recording Gear

Computer Recording Gear (Roll Cursor Over Link for Price)

Triple Platinum Apple Loops for Garageband Logic Or Logic Express - Samples from Norman Cook aka Fatboy Slim, Vince Clarke, Pascal Gabriel, Coldcut and more! Hit sounds by hit producers for Apple's amazing GarageBand software.

Behringer UCA202 U-Control Audio Interface - With this ultra-compact, bus-powered interface, you can link your Windows and Mac computer with any audio gear. There is no setup or special drivers needed--simply plug the interface in a free USB port on your computer and get into the groove.

PreSonus FaderPort USB Automation Controller - The FaderPort puts the feel, vibe, and efficiency back into music recording and production. No more clicking through menus and drawing automation edits with a mouse. The easy-to-use FaderPort delivers complete transport control for fast and efficient recording along with ultra high quality, touch sensitive motorized fader for writing fades and automation. See larger version. The touch-sensitive, long throw motorizedfader on the FaderPort has the feel needed for recording perfect fades and writing volume, mute and pan automation in real-time. Solo and record enable can also be easily controlled with the FaderPort along with window selection, play, stop, record, and managing markers (locate points) for fast and easy recording. A foot switch jack is also included on the FaderPort for hands free punch-in/out recording. The FaderPort works with all Mac or Windows-based recording software including Pro Tools, Cubase, Nuendo, Logic and more.

M-Audio AXIOM 25-Key Semi-Weighted Keyboard USB MIDI Controller - Don’t let the compact size of the Axiom 25 fool you. This advanced 25-key USB mobile MIDI controller features both semi-weighted action and assignable aftertouch, plus eight rubberized trigger pads that put drum programming and performance at your fingertips. Eight endless rotary encoder knobs let you get your hands on synth parameters, virtual mixer controls and more. Six transport controls can also be assigned to control other MIDI parameters. Virtually everything is freely MIDI-assignable--and the backlit LCD screen makes programming easy and intuitive. You get 20 memory locations for on-board storage, plus free Enigma editor/librarian software to manage an unlimited number of setups via computer.

All Computer Recording Gear >> All Recording Equipment >> The Instrument Store >>

Top of Page >>

Multitrack Recorders (Roll Cursor Over Link for Price)

M-Audio MicroTrack II - Digital voice recorder - MP3 - The redesigned MicroTrack II brings even more professional features to the original high-fidelity mobile digital recorder that's been embraced by audio and film professionals worldwide. With an extended input gain range, analog input limiter, 48V phantom power, faster file transfer rate, seamless recording of files beyond 2GB in size and other enhancements, MicroTrack II delivers the highest quality mobile recording experience available today. Simply record WAV (BWF) and MP3 files to CompactFlash or Microdrives through balanced line inputs or built-in microphone preamps - then drag and drop recordings to your computer via high-speed USB 2.0 for immediate editing or Web posting. MicroTrack II is perfect for a wide variety of applications including field recording, capturing live shows, songwriting, education and more.

Digital 8 Track Recorder - Portastudio Interface - TASCAM culminates 30 years of Portastudio Recording with the DP-008, a portable 8-track recorder for all musicians. TASCAM's DP-008 is an eight-track recorder that captures CD-quality audio, two tracks at a time. You can use built-in microphones to grab ideas, plug condenser mics into the XLR inputs or plug a guitar directly in to lay tracks. There's even a metronome and chromatic tuner built-in for tight-sounding tracks. The DP-008 also allows you to digitally bounce tracks to make room for more, and touches like editing and undo make recording stress-free.

BR600 Digital Multitrack Recorder
Product Features

Included Accessories - Soft Case, Size AA alkaline dry cell batteries (6)
8 simultaneous playback tracks, 64 V-Tracks
Built-in FX processor, including pitch corrector and COSM amp models
Built-in drum-machine with velocity-sensitive pads
Built-in stereo microphone and battery power to record anywhere
Continuing to build on the name their digital recorders have established in recent years, the BR-600 is the most portable BR to date. This recorder is the most physically streamlined, feature-rich 8-track recorder you'll find.

Zoom R16 Multitrack Recorder Controller and Audio Interface Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface
Product Features

Digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording utilizing Secure Digital (SD) memory
16/24-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM recording in WAV format
Built-in stereo condenser microphones
Includes 1GB SD card and supports cards up to 32GB SDHC
Allows simultaneous recording on up to 8 tracks
Zoom has revolutionized digital recording again with the first digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording that utilizes Secure Digital (SD) memory. The new R16 recorder is three production tools in one incredibly versatile device. It.s a digital multi-track recorder, an audio interface and a control surface, providing you with all the tools necessary to create studio-quality recordings anywhere.

All Multitrack Recorders >> All Recording Equipment >> The Instrument Store >>

Top of Page >>

Mixers & Accessories (Roll Cursor Over Link for Price)

Behringer 802 8-Input Mixer
Product Features

Premium ultra low-noise, high headroom analog mixer
2 state-of-the-art XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to standalone boutique preamps
Neo-classic ''British'' 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices
1 stereo aux return for FX applications or as separate stereo input
A shade larger than the UB502, the UB802 features 2 INVISIBLE MIC PREAMPs (IMPs), 6 balanced high-headroom line inputs, 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices and 1 stereo aux return for FX applications or as separate stereo input. There is also an effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ on all channels. The UB802 is well-suited for use with fixed audio and video installations as well as keyboards, samplers and computer application.

Behringer 502 5-Input Mixer
Product Features

Premium ultra low-noise, high headroom analog mixer
State-of-the-art Xenyx mic preamp comparable to standalone boutique preamps
Neo-classic "British" 2-band EQ for warm and musical sound
Main mix, stereo CD/tape plus separate headphone outputs
CD/tape inputs assignable to headphone output or main mix outputs
Introducing XENYX: Premium Analog Mixers from BEHRINGER With close to one million units sold, the UB mixer series has become one of the most popular mixer series of all times that has no doubt connected musicians all over the world. Our new XENYX mixers will take you to an even higher plane. The XENYX 502 has 5 inputs and main mix, stereo CD/tape plus separate headphone outputs. Additionally, assignable CD/tape inputs have been incorporated for routing flexibility. The new XENYX Mic Preamp matches the sound quality, transparency, headroom and even the dynamic range of boutique-style, stand-alone mic preamps. Our neo-classic "British EQ" brings back the warmth and musicality of those '60s and '70s mega-console desks that made music history.

Behringer 1202 12-Input Mixer
Product Features

Premium ultra low-noise, high headroom analog mixer
4 state-of-the-art XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
Main mix outputs plus separate control room, phones and stereo CD/tape outputs
High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
Our newest 12-input, 2-bus mic/line mixer boasts 4 state-of-the-art INVISIBLE MIC PREAMPs (IMPs) and an effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ plus switchable low-cut filter on all mono channels. There is also 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices, main mix outputs plus separate control room, headphones and stereo tape outputs. Tape inputs are assignable to main mix or control room/phones outputs. Like the smaller UB1002, the UB1202 is an extremely versatile mixer with possibilities ranging from connecting a DAT recorder and monitor speakers to running permanent video and audio installations.

Behringer UB802 Eurorack UB802 Mixer (8 Inputs)
Product Features

Ultra low-noise ULN design, highest possible headroom, ultra-transparent audio
Effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ on all channels
6 balanced high-headroom line inputs
State-of-the-art 4580 operational amplifiers provide lowest noise and distortion--better than 4560 op amps
1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices
A shade larger than the UB502, the UB802 features 2 INVISIBLE MIC PREAMPs (IMPs), 6 balanced high-headroom line inputs, 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices and 1 stereo aux return for FX applications or as separate stereo input. There is also an effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ on all channels. The UB802 is well-suited for use with fixed audio and video installations as well as keyboards, samplers and computer applications.

All Mixers & Accessories >> All Recording Equipment >> The Instrument Store >>

Top of Page >>

¹ from Wikipedia Article: Multitrack Recording

(We are not affiliated with sites or advertisers promoted in paid ads appearing on this or any page.)

Computer Recording Gear (Roll Cursor Over Link for Price)
	Triple Platinum Apple Loops for Garageband Logic Or Logic Express - Samples from Norman Cook aka Fatboy Slim, Vince Clarke, Pascal Gabriel, Coldcut and more! Hit sounds by hit producers for Apple's amazing GarageBand software.
	Behringer UCA202 U-Control Audio Interface - With this ultra-compact, bus-powered interface, you can link your Windows and Mac computer with any audio gear. There is no setup or special drivers needed--simply plug the interface in a free USB port on your computer and get into the groove.
	PreSonus FaderPort USB Automation Controller - The FaderPort puts the feel, vibe, and efficiency back into music recording and production. No more clicking through menus and drawing automation edits with a mouse. The easy-to-use FaderPort delivers complete transport control for fast and efficient recording along with ultra high quality, touch sensitive motorized fader for writing fades and automation. See larger version. The touch-sensitive, long throw motorizedfader on the FaderPort has the feel needed for recording perfect fades and writing volume, mute and pan automation in real-time. Solo and record enable can also be easily controlled with the FaderPort along with window selection, play, stop, record, and managing markers (locate points) for fast and easy recording. A foot switch jack is also included on the FaderPort for hands free punch-in/out recording. The FaderPort works with all Mac or Windows-based recording software including Pro Tools, Cubase, Nuendo, Logic and more.
	M-Audio AXIOM 25-Key Semi-Weighted Keyboard USB MIDI Controller - Don’t let the compact size of the Axiom 25 fool you. This advanced 25-key USB mobile MIDI controller features both semi-weighted action and assignable aftertouch, plus eight rubberized trigger pads that put drum programming and performance at your fingertips. Eight endless rotary encoder knobs let you get your hands on synth parameters, virtual mixer controls and more. Six transport controls can also be assigned to control other MIDI parameters. Virtually everything is freely MIDI-assignable--and the backlit LCD screen makes programming easy and intuitive. You get 20 memory locations for on-board storage, plus free Enigma editor/librarian software to manage an unlimited number of setups via computer.
All Computer Recording Gear >> All Recording Equipment >> The Instrument Store >>

Multitrack Recorders (Roll Cursor Over Link for Price)
	M-Audio MicroTrack II - Digital voice recorder - MP3 - The redesigned MicroTrack II brings even more professional features to the original high-fidelity mobile digital recorder that's been embraced by audio and film professionals worldwide. With an extended input gain range, analog input limiter, 48V phantom power, faster file transfer rate, seamless recording of files beyond 2GB in size and other enhancements, MicroTrack II delivers the highest quality mobile recording experience available today. Simply record WAV (BWF) and MP3 files to CompactFlash or Microdrives through balanced line inputs or built-in microphone preamps - then drag and drop recordings to your computer via high-speed USB 2.0 for immediate editing or Web posting. MicroTrack II is perfect for a wide variety of applications including field recording, capturing live shows, songwriting, education and more.
	Digital 8 Track Recorder - Portastudio Interface - TASCAM culminates 30 years of Portastudio Recording with the DP-008, a portable 8-track recorder for all musicians. TASCAM's DP-008 is an eight-track recorder that captures CD-quality audio, two tracks at a time. You can use built-in microphones to grab ideas, plug condenser mics into the XLR inputs or plug a guitar directly in to lay tracks. There's even a metronome and chromatic tuner built-in for tight-sounding tracks. The DP-008 also allows you to digitally bounce tracks to make room for more, and touches like editing and undo make recording stress-free.
	BR600 Digital Multitrack Recorder Product Features Included Accessories - Soft Case, Size AA alkaline dry cell batteries (6) 8 simultaneous playback tracks, 64 V-Tracks Built-in FX processor, including pitch corrector and COSM amp models Built-in drum-machine with velocity-sensitive pads Built-in stereo microphone and battery power to record anywhere Continuing to build on the name their digital recorders have established in recent years, the BR-600 is the most portable BR to date. This recorder is the most physically streamlined, feature-rich 8-track recorder you'll find.
	Zoom R16 Multitrack Recorder Controller and Audio Interface Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface Product Features Digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording utilizing Secure Digital (SD) memory 16/24-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM recording in WAV format Built-in stereo condenser microphones Includes 1GB SD card and supports cards up to 32GB SDHC Allows simultaneous recording on up to 8 tracks Zoom has revolutionized digital recording again with the first digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording that utilizes Secure Digital (SD) memory. The new R16 recorder is three production tools in one incredibly versatile device. It.s a digital multi-track recorder, an audio interface and a control surface, providing you with all the tools necessary to create studio-quality recordings anywhere.
All Multitrack Recorders >> All Recording Equipment >> The Instrument Store >>

Mixers & Accessories (Roll Cursor Over Link for Price)
	Behringer 802 8-Input Mixer Product Features Premium ultra low-noise, high headroom analog mixer 2 state-of-the-art XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to standalone boutique preamps Neo-classic ''British'' 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices 1 stereo aux return for FX applications or as separate stereo input A shade larger than the UB502, the UB802 features 2 INVISIBLE MIC PREAMPs (IMPs), 6 balanced high-headroom line inputs, 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices and 1 stereo aux return for FX applications or as separate stereo input. There is also an effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ on all channels. The UB802 is well-suited for use with fixed audio and video installations as well as keyboards, samplers and computer application.
	Behringer 502 5-Input Mixer Product Features Premium ultra low-noise, high headroom analog mixer State-of-the-art Xenyx mic preamp comparable to standalone boutique preamps Neo-classic "British" 2-band EQ for warm and musical sound Main mix, stereo CD/tape plus separate headphone outputs CD/tape inputs assignable to headphone output or main mix outputs Introducing XENYX: Premium Analog Mixers from BEHRINGER With close to one million units sold, the UB mixer series has become one of the most popular mixer series of all times that has no doubt connected musicians all over the world. Our new XENYX mixers will take you to an even higher plane. The XENYX 502 has 5 inputs and main mix, stereo CD/tape plus separate headphone outputs. Additionally, assignable CD/tape inputs have been incorporated for routing flexibility. The new XENYX Mic Preamp matches the sound quality, transparency, headroom and even the dynamic range of boutique-style, stand-alone mic preamps. Our neo-classic "British EQ" brings back the warmth and musicality of those '60s and '70s mega-console desks that made music history.
	Behringer 1202 12-Input Mixer Product Features Premium ultra low-noise, high headroom analog mixer 4 state-of-the-art XENYX Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound Main mix outputs plus separate control room, phones and stereo CD/tape outputs High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life Our newest 12-input, 2-bus mic/line mixer boasts 4 state-of-the-art INVISIBLE MIC PREAMPs (IMPs) and an effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ plus switchable low-cut filter on all mono channels. There is also 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices, main mix outputs plus separate control room, headphones and stereo tape outputs. Tape inputs are assignable to main mix or control room/phones outputs. Like the smaller UB1002, the UB1202 is an extremely versatile mixer with possibilities ranging from connecting a DAT recorder and monitor speakers to running permanent video and audio installations.
	Behringer UB802 Eurorack UB802 Mixer (8 Inputs) Product Features Ultra low-noise ULN design, highest possible headroom, ultra-transparent audio Effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ on all channels 6 balanced high-headroom line inputs State-of-the-art 4580 operational amplifiers provide lowest noise and distortion--better than 4560 op amps 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices A shade larger than the UB502, the UB802 features 2 INVISIBLE MIC PREAMPs (IMPs), 6 balanced high-headroom line inputs, 1 post fader FX send per channel for external FX devices and 1 stereo aux return for FX applications or as separate stereo input. There is also an effective, extremely musical 3-band EQ on all channels. The UB802 is well-suited for use with fixed audio and video installations as well as keyboards, samplers and computer applications.
All Mixers & Accessories >> All Recording Equipment >> The Instrument Store >>