Recording Vocals

Okay, I barely record at all and was wondering what you guy's used.

I need some kind of software i guess 'cause i have a mic.

I need sumthing that allows me to record only my voice (while still listening to the track for timing) and then placing my voice on the instrumental.

Anyone got any ideas???

you need a mic interface, and a mic preamp if the interface doesn't have a proper mic preamp

you can get a multitrack hardware recorder or you can go the usb-computer interface

i'd go the comptuer route, cheaper and easier if you have a good enough computer.

the line 6 stuff is generally best when it comes to price vs quality.. i used a fifty dollar recording interface from line 6 and i got professional results, then again i've used MANY different interfaces and I know how to work my hardware and software.

you'll be alright, it's easy.. just jump right in and try stuff out.

What is your budget?

over nine thousand dollars!

lol. Cant really get any hardware where I am but access to software is abundant.

My mic connects directly to my PC via USB.

oh! well, in that case you just need to get proper software, Reaper is free and easy to use.

more or less, get the program, configure it to see your microphone hit record and you're done.

If you have a little money to spend (less than $200), this interface offers a LOT of bang for the buck if you're a recording "beginner".

http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Lexicon-Omega-Desktop-Recording-Studio?sku=245505

Most importantly for you, right now, it has decent mic preamps (DBX Silver series), and is a 24bit "plug and play" audio interface, with no special driver installation required.

But it can also "grow" with you as you improve your skills. Up to 8 inputs with built-in input mixing, MIDI I/O, and digital I/O via S/PDIF ... this can become your hardware hub for a little "desktop studio in a box".

I have more "high-end" (> $2000) interfaces, but I also have two of these Omegas around, and lately I've been using them more and more, because not only are they so easy to use, but in A/B comparison, I can't hear any difference in audio quality between these little Omega boxes and my more pricey audio interfaces.

Eventually, to do "professional" mixes, you'll need some good quality powered monitors, but if you just want to start recording your vocals and such with some good quality, you can get away with using a decent mic, the Omega, your computer, and a set of headphones.

Oh, then never mind my last post. Like Voltaire said, download Reaper for free and start recording.

Thanks guys. Just downloaded and installed.

It's gonna take a few days to get used to the interface but I'm sure I'll get the hang of it and post my first sample vid on the forum.

Just figured it out. YAY!!!!!

Thanks a mil. people.

Now I just need to download instrumentals to do my covers.

Even though this will technically suffice...

In the long run you will definitely need hardware....it's what's for dinner!

Hopefully you can travel someplace that has hardware because a USB

mic usually doesn't boast the qualities necessary to reproduce vocals.

Good luck...it's about time we hear your singing!

I added bass to DrumsPlus' drum practice recording. You might try making up lyrics and recording your voice over this track. I call this one "Shop Till You Drop". Please post your results somewhere we can hear it, I'm interested.

Shop Till You Drop.mp3 http://www.box.net/shared/6r7btsc3bm

http://www.karaoke-version.com

Cool thanks, I'll give it a try.

found that site on my travels yesterday and unfortunately even though I could use my dad's debit card, West Africa doesnt have a very good rep when it come to card fraud. Most sites simply wont accept a card if it was issued in West Africa.