Session 1: We will be discussing the proper use of mixers and recording devices. How to adjust signal levels, prevent clipping, reduce noise, microphone inputs, equalization, solo/mute, and auxiliary sends will be some of the the topics we’ll be discussing.

Note: To record your sounds outside of the building for your projects you will need to use the Fostex FR-2LE or a DAT recorder (both available in the Cage). Using the Fostex FR-2LE is the preferred method. For instructions on using the device click here.

For the DAT recorder buy a DAT tape and checkout the DAT field recorder with microphone(s). DAT tapes can be purchased at Guitar Center or the Supply Store.

Recording with the TASCAM DA-P1 DAT recorders (decks):
1. Insert DAT tape into the recorder and make sure the write protect tab is enabled (closed position)
2. Connect your microphone(s) to the XLR inputs in the DAT recorder
a. Use the left channel for mono recording
b. Use both channels for stereo recordings
3. Set the ANALOG INPUT switch to the MIC position
4. Set the INPUT switch to ANALOG
5. Enable the PHANTOM power when using condersor microphones
6. Press the RECORD button to arm the DAT deck for recording
7. Adjust the input levels until you have a strong signal without clipping
8. Press and HOLD the RECORD button and PLAY to start recording

Transfering your recording to Pro Tools via SPDIF and the MBox:
1. Connect the DIGITAL OUT from the DAT recorder to the SPDIF in on the MBox
2. Start a new session in Pro Tools
3. Create a new stereo or mono track for your recording
4. MBox 1 (light blue model): Under the “Setups” menu choose “Hardware Setup” and switch the inputs from “Analog” to “SPDIF”
5. MBox 2 (dark blue model): Change the track I/O to S/PDIF (L Mono) or S/PDIF (L/R Stereo). The I/O view can be enabled under View > Edit Window > I/O.
6. Press the “R” (record arm) button on your track
7. Press PLAY on the DAT recorder to monitor the input in Pro Tools
8. Press “Record” and then “Play” on the transport in Pro Tools to start transfering your recordings

Session 2: Let’s start working on our next assignment which involves multitracking. Please mix 5 or more tracks of audio in Pro Tools utilizing the techniques we discussed in class. Avoid clipping and keep noise to a minimum. When looping try to find “zero crossings” within the wave to avoid pops. Use equalization to “place” individual tracks within the mix. Use several sound sources, such as dialogue or vocals recorded with microphones, sound effects from the sound effects collection in the library, sounds effects (Foley) recorded with microphones and/or musical instruments. Follow the link below to download the project requirement details in MS Word format.

Assignment 2: Multitrack Project Requirements

Plugins/Inserts: So far we have been applying DSP with the Audio Suite menu in Pro Tools. This method manipulates the selected audio and creates a new waveform which replaces the original audio on the track. This technique is know as destructive editing. The advantage to apply effects this way is that the processing happens only once and does not continually tax the CPU of your computer. The disadvantage is that the processing is destructive; unless you undo or revert to the original, you cannot easily return to the previous state or adjust the effect once it’s applied. This is why it is much better to use non-destructive DSP plugins (or inserts) in your projects. Inserts are processed in real-time so that you can make adjustments to the effect as you listen to the track, temporarily disable (bipass) the effect, or remove the effect comletely without having to revert to the original audio.

TDM – Time Division Multiplexing
RTAS – Real-time Audio Suite

Reading:
What is a Software Plugin?
Video on how to create Aux Sends in Pro Tools

Finally, when working on projects with multiple tracks it is critical that you set up a master fader in order to be able to visualize how the tracks levels are interacting. Each additional track that plays simultaneously increases the overall levels of the project. A master fader will illustrate the combined levels in the project so you can avoid clipping while keeping your levels as high as possible to prevent excessive noise.