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This article originally appeared on TheRecordingSolution.com.
It’s a little intimidating when first learning how to record vocals. I remember the anxiety of making sure I get the vocal recording just right because, after all, the vocals are the number-one element of the song that people focus on.
After setting up your rig, which can be as simple as one mic, a one-channel audio interface, GarageBand, and a little acoustic treatment, there are five simple ways to get a great vocal sound. Obviously, it starts with a good singer, but once you have that, it’s not that hard if you follow these tips. I have a blueprint you can have for free if you’re wondering what gear you need to start recording.
In the video below I go into more depth and explanation, but it really boils down to:
- Picking a mic (this isn’t as big of a deal as you may think)
- Pop filter
- Proper distance
- Proper gain staging
- Working the mic to your advantage
My philosophy
When learning how to record vocals, or any instrument for that matter, I follow the philosophy of “It’s not the gear that makes a good recording, it’s the engineer.” It comes down to learning and implementing a few key techniques and “guidelines,” I should say, and you’ll be well on your way to a good, if not great, vocal sound!
It doesn’t matter what genre your vocalist is performing; these tips will help you get the right sound you need so you can get to the finish line quicker, which is, for all of us, making killer sounding recordings, right?
So dive into the video below, and I’ll explain in further detail the five topics mentioned above. Please let me know if and when you implement these strategies, and I’d love to hear how your next vocal recording turned out!
Next up: 7 Secrets for Getting Pro-Sounding Vocals on Home Recordings
Scott Wiggins is a Texas-based singer-songwriter, producer, engineer, and home studio owner with over 15 years' experience in creating and releasing music to the world. Scott is also the founder of TheRecordingSolution.com, a website dedicated to helping DIY musicians create better recordings and mixes. Scott has mentored under award-winning engineers and wants to share his knowledge with you.
