Gain Structuring

The most important "Rule" of recording is GAIN STRUCTURING. So what do I mean by GAIN STRUCTURING? Well I won't bore you with technical definitions about amplification and what-not but simply stated I am referring to your levels. Set up your levels correctly to set yourself up for success. 

As an Audio Engineer I receive sessions from artists all over wanting me to mix their tracks for them. When I open up their sessions the first thing I notice is their levels. If the waveforms are BIG and the meters are RED then there is nothing that I can do. You see when you record in a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) such as ProTools anything above 0 dB is called clipping, and clipping is bad.

So, how can I avoid clipping? That's what you're asking, right? Good question! We avoid clipping by making sure that our levels are set correctly. Simply do a sound check by having the artist perform the song as they would normally, while you grab the faders or turn the knobs and make adjustments. The goal here is to get a comfortable level while still leaving yourself some "headroom"  or room to grow.

About Me:

I am a certified Audio Engineer and owner/operator of a website called djprosperity.com. I received my education in Audio Recording and Production from The Conservatory of Recording Arts and Sciences in Tempe Arizona. If you'd like to know more about me or would like my help with your projects, please visit my website and contact me.