MEGA THREAD: Are You New To Engineering?

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 05:45 PM

The puropse of this thread is to help all the newbies with the typical questions they might have... If you are new to mixing and engineering, please read through this thread for answers to the typical questions, and feel free to post your questions in this thread.... Please do not start a new thread until you read this. I know the urge to start a new thread is great, but to try and keep the clutter down, let's try to keep the beginner questions in this thread. This will allow new members to get lots of information in the future.

So, let's start with microphone choices...

If you are in the under $500 price range, and also don't have a proper vocal booth... Then there is 2 choices that you should consider first and foremost:

The Shure SM7

This mic has been used to record countless hits and is a great all purpose studio mic.

or....

The EV RE20

This mic is another great all purpose studio mic, and has also been used on lots of hits.

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 05:57 PM

This the Neumann U87... It has been used to record more major label vocals than probably any other microphone! They are around $2000 used..

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 05:59 PM

This is the Sony C800-G, a famous microphone used by many.. It has become the sound of modern R&B, and is also typically used by Dr Dre, etc. This mic is in the top dollar price range (around $7000).

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 06:03 PM

There are also many other microphones out there that are worth considering... But, these are the 4 mics that seem to come up the most....

The next topic will be monitors....

If you are in the under $500 price range, I have found that the Blue Sky Media Desk system works well for the typical bedroom producer... It is a good choice because it also includes a subwoofer, which is good for getting the low frequencies right.

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 06:04 PM

The Digidesign 002r is a good system for the typical bedroom producer...

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 06:05 PM

You will also want some third party plugins to go along with whatever DAW system you use. The consensus is that the Waves (www.waves.com), and URS (ursplugins.com) are the typical first chocies.

youngkain · 28th April 2006, 08:40 PM

Its all about Guidance !! Newbies Listen to the Man, Tony KNows what the deal is !!

PEACE

djui5 · 28th April 2006, 08:52 PM

great idea Tony

Smitty Boy · 28th April 2006, 10:18 PM

What about preamps?

**TonyBelmont** · 28th April 2006, 11:13 PM

Yes, we'll get to all of that stuff... this is just the start of what I hope to be a HUGE thread that can answer questions for all newcomers to the site.

Relax · 28th April 2006, 11:35 PM

great idea tony, imho dont make it too huge or new cats wont go through it all, like the 100 page threads over at the duc. and you should delete all the chit chat (like this post) to keep it clean.

Checkmate Muzik · 29th April 2006, 01:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TonyBelmont

The Digidesign 002r is a good system for the typical bedroom producer...

Asking all engineers!! Is there a big sound difference tracking the beats on a digi 02 VS the expensive top of the line HD protools in major studios. Or there isnt much difference as far as sound quality? I need a good setup to track beats at home. A lot of engineers i know say better converters make a big difference.

Right now i have a good production gear but no studio setup. How much money you think is a decent budget to set up at home which can sound just as good as majors if you were to mix it bigger studios? So far only thing i have is a PC computer. What equipment you think i should look into? I have also heard some producers working out of a cheap computer lookin setup trackin their beats and it sounds good overall. u cant tell much difference where it was tracked.

is protools the best option on the pc computers or there is any other programs thast better than PT. i noticed a lot of engineers dont even like PT but they use it since its industry standard.

Checkmate Muzik · 29th April 2006, 04:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TonyBelmont

This is the Sony C800-G, a famous microphone used by many.. It has become the sound of modern R&B, and is also typically used by Dr Dre, etc. This mic is in the top dollar price range (around $7000).

I really wana try that mic on my artist SLo-O vocals. Shit looks real nice

djui5 · 29th April 2006, 05:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Checkmate Muzik

I really wana try that mic on my artist SLo-O vocals. Shit looks real nice

That mic is sic...to put it mildly. You gotta rent it at least once, or rent a studio that has one.

As for your converter question, it would make a difference in the sound quality. One way around it is to go digital into the 002 from your keyboard or whatever, via spdif or whatever it has. Sometimes you can't help it though...

Eager2Know · 29th April 2006, 12:29 PM

I got a small question

I have seen Engineers use monitor headphones to "(p)recheck" their mix. What's the deal with that? Is it useful? Or to put it in other words, what can be "checked" with it? Stereomix?

If it's a good idea to do so, which headphone models would you consider buying? I've heard AKG has some good monitor headphones, is there another brand?

Cheers,
Eager2know

streetbeats · 29th April 2006, 02:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TonyBelmont

Yes, we'll get to all of that stuff... this is just the start of what I hope to be a HUGE thread that can answer questions for all newcomers to the site.

Hey Tony

Just a suggestion if this thread is gonna get huge, it might be an idea to complile all the useful stuff into the first post, else it'll be hard for people to find that useful piece of info...

On another note, Ive just remembered you're in Boston - I was there the last few days, next time Im over I'll shout you...

streetbeats · 29th April 2006, 02:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Eager2Know

I got a small question

I have seen Engineers use monitor headphones to "(p)recheck" their mix. What's the deal with that? Is it useful? Or to put it in other words, what can be "checked" with it? Stereomix?

If it's a good idea to do so, which headphone models would you consider buying? I've heard AKG has some good monitor headphones, is there another brand?

Cheers,
Eager2know

Grado RS1s, or even RS2s ;)

To me, headphones ar just another reference tool, particularly useful for checking detail such as reverb tails..Stereo imaging isnt what I wouild use them for since essentially each ear is listening to its own 'room'

Biggsheff · 29th April 2006, 03:53 PM

What would be a must have checklist for a home studio ? LIke...

1. PC
2. Some type of interface, Digidesign 002r etc...
3. Beat machine/sampler, MPC etc..
4. Mixer
5. Synth, midi controller, rack mounts
6. Mic
7. Mic pre, Focusrite etc...
8. Monitors

Not so much as which brand specific just what equiptment an brand as example ?

babyface_finsta · 29th April 2006, 05:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Biggsheff

What would be a must have checklist for a home studio ? LIke...

1. PC
2. Some type of interface, Digidesign 002r etc...
3. Beat machine/sampler, MPC etc..
4. Mixer
5. Synth, midi controller, rack mounts
6. Mic
7. Mic pre, Focusrite etc...
8. Monitors

Not so much as which brand specific just what equiptment an brand as example ?

Dont forget treating your room...

halfguard · 30th April 2006, 03:39 AM

where can i buy those blue skyy monitors???

**TonyBelmont** · 30th April 2006, 03:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by halfguard

where can i buy those blue skyy monitors???

Shameless plug....

High Profile Audio!

andrewj · 1st May 2006, 07:56 PM

Thank for the mike recs! Still thinking about a second one! Bought my CAD years ago, because I read that Teddy Riley sears on them! Must say that I have realized some really good recordings with tube traps in a room and these mikes plus an AMEK Pre (which I would not use anymore because I prefer Averill rightnow!)

Oh by the way: Aren't the AKG mikes also important in the RnB world? Herad about AKG Mikes on Brian McKnight recordings, right?

I would love to see compressor recommendations next!

**TonyBelmont** · 1st May 2006, 09:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrewj

Thank for the mike recs! Still thinking about a second one! Bought my CAD years ago, because I read that Teddy Riley sears on them! Must say that I have realized some really good recordings with tube traps in a room and these mikes plus an AMEK Pre (which I would not use anymore because I prefer Averill rightnow!)

Oh by the way: Aren't the AKG mikes also important in the RnB world? Herad about AKG Mikes on Brian McKnight recordings, right?

I would love to see compressor recommendations next!

Brian McKnight uses the C800G...

andrewj · 1st May 2006, 11:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TonyBelmont

Brian McKnight uses the C800G...

Thank you for that info, as his vocal recordings are reference for me, when it comes to the ultimate sound! But why did I read about the AKG Mics? Perhaps they were used at the older stuff (Anytime etc.?)

Oh by the way and what Compressors are your recommendation? I really need to know!!!

Stress Man · 5th May 2006, 07:58 PM

Tony, I'd like to get your feedback on the AKG C414 mic:

tgrokz · 6th May 2006, 06:09 AM

i have worked with the 414 many many times. i dont like it at all. i was told how good it was by my teacher, but no thank you. if it were $400 i would get it. not 800 or 900 though. i odnt exactly know what it is i dont like about it, but i can tell you that i have used it for rap and i was not happy with the results.

andrewj · 6th May 2006, 08:39 AM

I think for informations like that Tony added a lot more information to his website:

Highprofile Audio

See the Top 5 recommendatons!

**TonyBelmont** · 8th May 2006, 03:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by andrewj

I think for informations like that Tony added a lot more information to his website:

Highprofile Audio

See the Top 5 recommendatons!

Yes, this is exactly why added that part to my site... There's also the "Tony's Top Picks" page which focus on a handful of pieces that are perfect for what we do.

**TonyBelmont** · 8th May 2006, 03:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stress Man

Tony, I'd like to get your feedback on the AKG C414 mic:

The 414 is a good all around microphone.... There are other mics that I would typically recommend over it for hip hop vocals. And, if you don't have a vocal booth it's a waste to buy any of these condensers for hip hop vocals. SM7 & RE20 are typically the first choices.

Stress Man · 8th May 2006, 09:16 PM

I've been wondering, do you think a Teletronix LA 2A Could have any use in a Hip Hop Studio??

28th April 2006, 05:45 PM	#1
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	MEGA THREAD: Are You New To Engineering? The puropse of this thread is to help all the newbies with the typical questions they might have... If you are new to mixing and engineering, please read through this thread for answers to the typical questions, and feel free to post your questions in this thread.... Please do not start a new thread until you read this. I know the urge to start a new thread is great, but to try and keep the clutter down, let's try to keep the beginner questions in this thread. This will allow new members to get lots of information in the future. So, let's start with microphone choices... If you are in the under $500 price range, and also don't have a proper vocal booth... Then there is 2 choices that you should consider first and foremost: The Shure SM7 This mic has been used to record countless hits and is a great all purpose studio mic. or.... The EV RE20 This mic is another great all purpose studio mic, and has also been used on lots of hits. __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com

28th April 2006, 05:57 PM	#2
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	This the Neumann U87... It has been used to record more major label vocals than probably any other microphone! They are around $2000 used.. __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com

28th April 2006, 05:59 PM	#3
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	This is the Sony C800-G, a famous microphone used by many.. It has become the sound of modern R&B, and is also typically used by Dr Dre, etc. This mic is in the top dollar price range (around $7000). __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com

28th April 2006, 06:03 PM	#4
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	There are also many other microphones out there that are worth considering... But, these are the 4 mics that seem to come up the most.... The next topic will be monitors.... If you are in the under $500 price range, I have found that the Blue Sky Media Desk system works well for the typical bedroom producer... It is a good choice because it also includes a subwoofer, which is good for getting the low frequencies right. __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com

28th April 2006, 06:04 PM	#5
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	The Digidesign 002r is a good system for the typical bedroom producer... __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com Last edited by TonyBelmont; 28th April 2006 at 06:09 PM.

28th April 2006, 06:05 PM	#6
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	You will also want some third party plugins to go along with whatever DAW system you use. The consensus is that the Waves (www.waves.com), and URS (ursplugins.com) are the typical first chocies. __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com Last edited by TonyBelmont; 28th April 2006 at 06:15 PM.

28th April 2006, 08:40 PM	#7
youngkain Gear nut Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 147	THAT GOOD SH Its all about Guidance !! Newbies Listen to the Man, Tony KNows what the deal is !! PEACE

28th April 2006, 08:52 PM	#8
djui5 Lives for gear Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Phoenix Posts: 6,671	great idea Tony __________________ _________________ "What is a crossfire hurricane & why wasn't I born in one?" Randy Wright http://www.myspace.com/djui5

28th April 2006, 10:18 PM	#9
Smitty Boy Gear Head Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 69	What about preamps? __________________ ^^Click Here To Listen To My Beats^^

28th April 2006, 11:13 PM	#10
TonyBelmont Moderator Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Boston,MA Providence,RI Posts: 8,877	Yes, we'll get to all of that stuff... this is just the start of what I hope to be a HUGE thread that can answer questions for all newcomers to the site. __________________ Tony Belmont We Sell Gear! Need plugins? Check out PluginDiscounts.com

28th April 2006, 11:35 PM	#11
Relax Gear addict Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Arizona Posts: 458	great idea tony, imho dont make it too huge or new cats wont go through it all, like the 100 page threads over at the duc. and you should delete all the chit chat (like this post) to keep it clean. __________________ www.djrelax.com

29th April 2006, 12:29 PM	#15
Eager2Know Gear Head Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Duesseldorf/Germany Posts: 59	Mixing with headphones I got a small question I have seen Engineers use monitor headphones to "(p)recheck" their mix. What's the deal with that? Is it useful? Or to put it in other words, what can be "checked" with it? Stereomix? If it's a good idea to do so, which headphone models would you consider buying? I've heard AKG has some good monitor headphones, is there another brand? Cheers, Eager2know

29th April 2006, 03:53 PM	#18
Biggsheff Gear nut Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Pensacola, FL Posts: 80	What would be a must have checklist for a home studio ? LIke... 1. PC 2. Some type of interface, Digidesign 002r etc... 3. Beat machine/sampler, MPC etc.. 4. Mixer 5. Synth, midi controller, rack mounts 6. Mic 7. Mic pre, Focusrite etc... 8. Monitors Not so much as which brand specific just what equiptment an brand as example ?

30th April 2006, 03:39 AM	#20
halfguard Lives for gear Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: south fla Posts: 956	where can i buy those blue skyy monitors???

1st May 2006, 07:56 PM	#22
andrewj Lives for gear Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Hamburg (Wellingsbuettel), G-Many Posts: 1,033	Thank for the mike recs! Still thinking about a second one! Bought my CAD years ago, because I read that Teddy Riley sears on them! Must say that I have realized some really good recordings with tube traps in a room and these mikes plus an AMEK Pre (which I would not use anymore because I prefer Averill rightnow!) Oh by the way: Aren't the AKG mikes also important in the RnB world? Herad about AKG Mikes on Brian McKnight recordings, right? I would love to see compressor recommendations next! __________________ Interface: MIO 2882 PreAmps: Averill 1272, Fletcher P10 Compressor: Smart C2M, EL Fatso Summing Mixer: Sumo Monitors: Klein & Hummel O300 Microphone: Audix D6, Audix i-5, Audix OM-2s, CAD E-350, Beyerdynamic M160, Beyerdynamic MC930, Peluso 22 47 Outboard FX: Lexicon PCM 81, PCM 91, Ensoniq DP4+ DAW: Intel Mac, MOTU DP 5, Apple Logic 8, Cubase 4.1, Ableton Live 7, Celemony Melodyne 3, URS & Waves Plugins

5th May 2006, 07:58 PM	#25
Stress Man Gear maniac Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Philly,Pa Posts: 152	Tony,what your opinion on AKG C414 Mics?? Tony, I'd like to get your feedback on the AKG C414 mic:

6th May 2006, 06:09 AM	#26
tgrokz Gear maniac Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Long Island, New York Posts: 289	i have worked with the 414 many many times. i dont like it at all. i was told how good it was by my teacher, but no thank you. if it were $400 i would get it. not 800 or 900 though. i odnt exactly know what it is i dont like about it, but i can tell you that i have used it for rap and i was not happy with the results.

6th May 2006, 08:39 AM	#27
andrewj Lives for gear Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Hamburg (Wellingsbuettel), G-Many Posts: 1,033	I think for informations like that Tony added a lot more information to his website: Highprofile Audio See the Top 5 recommendatons! __________________ Interface: MIO 2882 PreAmps: Averill 1272, Fletcher P10 Compressor: Smart C2M, EL Fatso Summing Mixer: Sumo Monitors: Klein & Hummel O300 Microphone: Audix D6, Audix i-5, Audix OM-2s, CAD E-350, Beyerdynamic M160, Beyerdynamic MC930, Peluso 22 47 Outboard FX: Lexicon PCM 81, PCM 91, Ensoniq DP4+ DAW: Intel Mac, MOTU DP 5, Apple Logic 8, Cubase 4.1, Ableton Live 7, Celemony Melodyne 3, URS & Waves Plugins

8th May 2006, 09:16 PM	#30
Stress Man Gear maniac Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Philly,Pa Posts: 152	I've been wondering, do you think a Teletronix LA 2A Could have any use in a Hip Hop Studio??