How to record guitar parts at home
Whether you’re looking to record some quick ideas or start composing full songs, here are some handy tips. Saving those creative moments on your guitar while in the comfort of your home is very appealing, and it’s a hell of a lot better than paying the big bucks at the recording studio. But how on earth would you go by doing it? Whether you want to go for a budget set-up or a more advanced setup, you will quickly learn all that is necessary in this post, as We run through the essentials to get you to start recording guitar ASAP.
Mic Recording vs Direct Recording
Basically, those are your two options. Both of them have advantages and disadvantages to them. Go for mic recording if your budget allows it and you want to keep the beautiful tones from your vintage amp. Here’s the thing though with mic recording: After you’ve finished a recording, especially when you’re using effects pedal, you can’t do a lot with your sound.
Using direct recording will come to good use when you want to play a lot with the effects and tones after. And in many recording programs there is a bigger collection of effects and amps than you could ever wish for. The disadvantage of direct recording though is, the tone quality will be less than that of a mic recording.
Mics
So, you’re interested in mic recording … great! Then We assume you have an extra penny to spend? If so you’ll need it to get yourself a good mic for guitar recording. When you’re out mic-hunting, try to pick a mic that has a large diaphragm and is versatile. Also, make sure you know how to mic an amp.
Audio Interface
Unfortunately, there are no computers on the market with an input for a 1/4″ jack or XLR cable. That’s why you need to have a hub where your signal is directed through and is sent to the computer. Go for an audio interface that suits your needs best. That might come as a no-brainer, but here’s the thing: You don’t need a big rackmounted interface when you are recording at home with one or two friends. There are a ton of different audio interfaces on the market, each serving a different purpose.
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Recording Software
This will be the final component you’ll need for recording your guitar. You might be a firm believer that recording software is only a means to an end, and that it doesn’t really add value to your final product. Well, let us set you straight. Choosing the right kind of recording software and getting familiar with it is absolutely critical in guitar recording. The software will provide the icing on the cake.
So how would you go about choosing the right software?
There a couple of factors we need to take into account when picking the right recording software.
1. Look at the compatibility for midi and VST plug-ins, since you might want to add some later on.
2. The overall usability and learning curve of the program.
3. Look for software with a sample library; this will be of great value when you want to create full tracks.
4. Guitar recording software with pre-installed effects pedals and amps is always a big bonus.
If going all out with an expensive recording program isn’t something you’d easily do, We would advise you to try out some free guitar recording software.