Setting Up Recording Session

Setting up a recording session involves configuring software, routing signals, establishing levels, and preparing monitoring systems. A methodical approach ensures all elements work together when recording begins.

Creating the Session File

Opening the DAW and creating a new session establishes the project foundation. Session settings including sample rate, bit depth, and file location should be configured before any recording.

Sample rate selection depends on project requirements. Music projects typically use 44.1 or 48 kHz, while video-related projects should use 48 kHz for compatibility.

File location should point to appropriate storage with adequate free space. Organizing session files in a consistent project folder structure maintains organization from the start.

Track Configuration

Creating tracks for each planned source establishes the session structure. Each microphone or direct input receives its own track with appropriate input assignment.

Track naming should identify the source clearly. “Kick In,” “Snare Top,” “Lead Vox” communicate more than default names like “Audio 1.”

Color coding tracks by type aids visual navigation. Grouping drums in one color, guitars in another, and vocals in a third creates instantly recognizable session layout.

Input Assignment

Each track’s input assignment connects it to the appropriate interface channel. The kick drum microphone plugged into interface input 1 should feed the kick drum track with input 1 assigned.

Verifying input assignments by checking that signal appears on the expected track prevents recording to wrong tracks. A quick test of each input confirms correct routing.

Stereo sources like overhead microphones or keyboards require stereo track configuration. Creating stereo tracks and assigning left and right inputs maintains proper stereo imaging.

Gain Staging

Setting preamp gain for each source establishes appropriate recording levels. Having the performer play while adjusting gain finds the optimal setting for each source.

Target levels place peaks between -18 and -6 dBFS. This range provides headroom for transients while maintaining healthy signal level.

Each source requires individual gain attention. The kick drum microphone may need different gain than the overhead microphones despite being part of the same drum kit.

Headphone Monitoring Setup

Creating cue mixes for performers enables them to hear appropriate monitoring during recording. Most sessions require at least one headphone mix with adjustable content.

The headphone mix typically includes click track, any backing tracks or guide material, and the performer’s own signal for hearing themselves. Balance between elements depends on performer preference.

Testing headphone output through the actual headphones being used confirms adequate level and proper signal routing.

Talkback Configuration

Talkback enables communication from control room to headphone feeds. Configuring talkback routing allows the engineer to speak to performers during sessions.

Testing talkback through the monitoring system confirms it works before relying on it for session communication.

Record-Ready Verification

Arming tracks for recording prepares them to capture audio. Only tracks that should record should be armed to prevent accidental recording.

A brief test recording verifies the complete signal path works correctly. Recording a few seconds and playing back confirms audio captures as expected.

Checking levels, monitoring, and talkback during this test recording reveals any remaining issues before the actual session begins.

Final Organization

Saving the session after setup creates a clean starting point. If problems occur during recording, this save provides a known good state.

Clearing meters and preparing for recording puts the system in ready state. The session awaits only the performer’s readiness to begin capturing takes.

Documentation of the setup including microphone choices, positions, and settings preserves information that may be useful later or for recreating the session.