The Recording Software

     No matter who you are or how much money you have, if you are going to record something you are going to need to choose a specific recording software. The prices range from $30 to $200 but you really don't want to purchase anything less than $65 because the others do not have the proper features and are known for their glitches. Buying software really is a personal favorite depending on what kind of set up you like. The main brands are Pro Tools, Mixcraft, and Audacity. I have Mixcraft 4.5 because the format is much easier to understand than other programs. In this specific program they give you the ability to adjust the volume of each track and add effects while the song is playing like most quality programs. What sets this one apart from the others is it's much more simple to add effects to the music because it's just a couple of clicks to add something unlike Pro Tools where you have to click a million icons before you get to select what you want.
     Pro Tools is also another well respected recording program. It is also the most used in professional recording studios around the globe. This software will run you about $100 to $150 depending on what version you get and what comes with it. Pro Tools is good because it has more customizing features than any other product out there. The combinations are almost endless. The down side is people say that  it might be difficult to learn because of all the options. This program also is only compatible with certain interfaces like the M-box which limits your choices when it comes to the equipment you use.

Recording Drums

     Up to now I have mentioned how to record using a single microphone for either a singer or a guitarist. This time you will learn how and what to use to record a standard drum set. Initially, it's obvious that there are many more things to put a mic to than on an amp so you will need many more mics. The key to this is to make a decision as to what parts you want to hear most clearly. A professional drum recording can have up to 10 mics but that's not necessary. All that's needed is three to four mics which covers the snare, bass drum, cymbals, and possibly a high or floor tom. There are specially made mics to record drums but a set can cost about $300. Because bands are always on a budget I came up with a cheap solution. Instead of using regular dynamic mics, I use three Guitar Hero or Rock Band mics from the video game. I had my doubts at first but they actually work pretty good. If you look on the back of them they say Logitech USB which means they are actual mics, all you have to do is plug them straight into your computer.

     Now the secret to them sounding good is the positioning and presentation. I recommend going to Radio Shack and picking up a few Windscreens which look like soft foam balls that go over the microphone. This reduces the air coming out of the drums and creates a warmer sound in the recording. The positioning of the mics can get a little tricky depending on the amount of space available. It will be a lot of trial and error to get your desired sound. The general location to place each mic is one towards the edge of the snare but still pointing at the center. The next one will go either inside the bass drum sitting on top of pillows or just outside the hole. The third one should be on a boom arm stand facing towards the cymbals that are being used most in the song but far enough away to reduce distortion.