Recording vocals at home can be a great way to produce a demo for a track. If you are just starting out, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Choose the right microphone: Select a microphone that suits your voice and recording style. A popular choice for recording vocals at home is a large diaphragm condenser mic like the Audio-Technica AT2020, which is available on Amazon for under $100.
2. Choose the right room: Find a room that has good acoustics and is free of external noise. Ideally, a smaller room like a closet is better for recording vocals because it has less echo. If you're recording in a larger room, use acoustic panels or sound blankets to reduce echo.
3. Check for noise: Make sure the room you're recording in is completely silent. Turn off any fans or air conditioning units and close any doors and windows to reduce outside noise. Also, make sure to monitor for headphone volume bleeding into the microphone by keeping the headphones at a lower volume.
4. Set Levels: The best dB level to record vocals at can vary depending on the specific recording situation and the desired outcome. However, a common guideline for recording vocals is to aim for a level between -12dB and -6dB, with peaks hitting no higher than -3dB. This allows for some headroom and avoids any clipping or distortion that can occur when levels are too high. Ultimately, it's important to trust your ears and adjust levels accordingly to achieve the best possible recording quality.
5. Relax: Make sure you're comfortable and have everything you need before you begin. Take your time and focus on delivering a great performance. If you need to stop and start again, that's okay. It's better to get it right than to rush through it.
6. Listen back and edit: Once you've finished recording, listen back to your track and make any necessary edits. Ask yourself “If I knew 2 million people would be listening to this recording would I be proud for them to hear this?” If the answer is “no” or “maybe” re-record.
GEAR SUGGESTIONS
Microphones:
Mic Stands:
Pro: K&M 210/9 Mic Stand
Mic Pop filters:
Mic Cables:
Budget: LyxPro Balanced XLR Cable
Audio Interfaces:
DAWs:
If you are just starting out with writing and recording, I hope this guide has given you a solid foundation for recording great sounding vocal tracks in your home studio. Remember to take your time and experiment with different techniques and gear until you find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to seek out advice and feedback from other musicians or audio professionals as well. With practice and persistence, you can create recordings that showcase your unique voice and style. Happy recording!
Want to dive deeper into this topic?
I recommend Dave Hunter’s book "The Home Recording Handbook: Use What You've Got to Make Great Music"
Take Action
If you're passionate about creating music and want to record your vocals at home, now is the time to start putting these tips into practice. Don't let a lack of experience or gear hold you back from taking steps to get better. With the right approach, you can create professional-sounding vocal tracks from home. Every session is an opportunity to learn and improve. So, get creative, have fun, and keep striving to make the best music possible! And when you're done, share your results with us in the comments below!
Feedback
Did you find these tips helpful for recording vocals at home? Are there any other techniques or gear that you've found particularly useful for capturing great vocal tracks? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below and join the conversation.
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