Archives for December 2018

Today digital recording is commonplace. However, some musicians still use analog, which has its own benefits. Here are three ways digital is better than analog: 1. Digital files can easily be copied exactly, with no signal loss or degradation. 2. Unlike analog, with digital there is no fixed limit on the number of audio tracks you can have. 3. Digital formats are standardized. There are also some ways in which digital is not necessarily better: 1. Analog has “character”. 2. Learning to produce music with the limitations analog imposes can be a good way to learn to master the basics of production.

Key Takeaways:

• You can copy the digital file on a computer and there won’t be any degradation of the sound.
• Analog systems have a finite number of tracks, whereas digital has no limit.
• By using analog equipment, you learn a lot about how the recording process really works.

“Although digital recording is now commonplace, there’s still a vocal minority of musicians sticking with analog. But which is better?”

Read more: https://ask.audio/articles/3-ways-digital-audio-is-better-than-analog-for-musicians-and-2-ways-its-not

If you use a microphone for recordings, there are many accessories available to help you get the sound that you desire. When going to a recording studio, for example, do not assume that everyone will have things that you feel that you need. Microphone stands are always nice to keep handy. Some offer adjustable mic holders to get help get the right angle/ If one desires a new shock mount on their mic, make sure it is a good fit. Also other handy equipment to have are power supply boxes, extra cable wires, and even electric tape.

Key Takeaways:

• It is essential that before the recording session is initiated all necessary accessories are made available. When a live recording is being done, have a go-bag of needed accessories.
• Always have the mic cables ready. Sometimes a longer cable run than anticipated occurs or some of the cables can fail. It is safe to be ready.
• Be ready for mic stands also when recording. Don’t assume the club would have a mic stand. Also, make sure the mic stand is compatible with the microphone.

“When recording with microphones, whether in the studio or in live/remote situations, the microphones themselves are, of course, not the only gear required—a host of essential accessories are also needed, and various additional items may also come in handy.”

Read more: https://ask.audio/articles/the-accessories-your-recording-microphones-will-thank-you-for

MusicTech Magazine polled its readers to help its editors develop a Gear of the Year list. You can find the whole list of Gear of the Year hardware, software and production equipment in MusicTech Issue 190z. You’ll also find “Sonic Parallels,” a piece about the intersection of video games and music software and hardware. The issue also includes interviews with Heather Bright, Goldie and Michael Price, along with reviews, helpful tutorials, and a 4GB DVD with more great MusicTech content.

Key Takeaways:

• The pages of the magazine are packed with tutorials and reviews that deal on the latest hardware and software which could be candidates for gear of the year.
• The magazine, Musictech 190 includes information on gear of the year for 2018, including the best hardware, software and music production kit.
• There are articles on Sonic Parallels, that is, on how the video game world has had an influence on hardware and software for making music.

“This year, we’ve once again enabled readers to vote for their favourite gear online, and, combined with our editorial deliberations, we have selected the ultimate winners for each category as well as those Highly Commended runners-up.”

Read more: https://www.musictech.net/2018/12/musictech-magazine-issue-190-gear-of-the-year-2018/