Recording

Recording is done documentary style - Neumann stereo mics going into an M/S matrix, then into a Sony digital recorder, using DAT, not miniDisc. Miking techniques are developed over the years by engineers.

Natural reverb is desired - that's why a large, live room, like a large cathedral, is best. Small rooms or homes are the worst places to record - the slapback will make your tone sound tinny. If you need to overdub, isolate tracks or produce a "pop" sound, a multitrack studio will be rented.

The DAT is later fed into a computer via SPDIF - maintaining its digital nature - and edited for tracks, smooth in/outs, and to fix any mistakes. A sequence of tracks is determined and WAV files produced.

A 16-bit CD-R is made, labeled, boxed and shrink-wrapped. It can be used as is or as a master for pressed CDs. It can also be converted to MP3, RealAudio, Windows Media, Flash, AIF or analog cassette.

We suggest you well-rehearse your group, so you don't have to spend recording time rehearsing. It's a good idea to listen back, at least to the first few takes, to see how you sound on tape. We will try to make sure you are relaxed, not nervous, and are at 100%. Expect to spend 6-10 times the amount of recording/editing time per finished time.