Project Planning
Its important to have a good understanding of the purpose of the recording
project (see Record Production for examples.)
This can impact the execution of the steps below. Factors such as
cost, time requirements, and target audience should be considered.
Studio Setup
Performer location, microphone selection and placement, and equipment setup
and testing should all be considered before the recording session begins.
Song Recording
The recording session should be divided into "songs" -- or
manageable segments -- of a few minutes in recording time. As many takes
as necessary should be made depending on the purpose determined in project
planning. Individual instruments or instrument groups can be recorded
independently and over-layed during editing.
Song Editing
Songs can be edited to remove unwanted portions, combine instruments, and add
effects such as reverberation. The artist should work with the engineer to
agree on the right level and type of effects added.
Song Mastering
Multiple recording tracks for a Song are mixed down to two stereo
channels.
CD Mastering
Multiple Songs are written to a single CD that will be used for Production.
