Live sound can be a completely different animal than a session in the studio. With so many extra variables, it can be difficult to isolate a problem and subsequently eliminate the problem. Start with a foundation of the right equipment and good technique, and many of your live sound issues may resolve on their own.
You can read more about mic issues with live performances here: http://www.audio-issues.com/live-sound-tips/how-to-get-a-great-live-vocal-sound-on-stage-and-off/
Fix Vocal Pitch Without Adding Artifacts
Correcting pitch for a vocal track can drastically change its sound. Instead of a rich human voice, you’re left with a robotic mess. This doesn’t have to be the case. Some plugins are available that can correct the pitch of a vocal track and then re-humanize the sound, preventing the track from sounding like robotic, soulless perfection.
You can read the full article here: http://en.audiofanzine.com/recording-mixing/editorial/articles/transparent-vocal-pitch-correction.html
CNTRL Samples Offers Free Download
Attack Magazine has coordinated with several vendors to offer free sample packs. The most recent release is from CNTRL Samples. This pack is made of some of the tracks from recent releases from the company. If you produce any kind of electronic music, some free samples never hurt to keep around. There are also sample packs from several other studios to check out.
For more information, read here: http://rekkerd.org/attack-releases-free-cntrl-sample-pack/
Dynamics In The Mix
Live recordings often have so much more emotion than studio tracks. The dynamic changes in volume, or the very slight rushing or dragging of the tempo are ways for the band to express the music. By playing together, they are able to match this expression to end up with a great vibe on the track. A single musician playing in a studio may be matching his or her tempo and volume to other pre-recorded tracks, eliminating much of the dynamic sound from the recording. Recognize the importance of dynamics, and evaluate your recording process to see if you’re starting your recording sessions at a handicap.
You can read the full article here: http://www.prosoundweb.com/article/in_the_studio_band_individual_dynamics_and_putting_it_together_in_the_mix/
The Art Of EQ
Done right, EQ can improve almost any track. It’s easy to get caught up in the science and numbers of the objective data, but is that all really necessary? Because so much of music quality and enjoyment is subjective, you should always trust your instincts. If something just doesn’t sound right, change it. If everything sounds great, but the EQ doesn’t look like anything you’ve done before, let it be!
You can read more here: http://therecordingrevolution.com/2013/02/18/the-non-technical-approach-to-eq/