What does it mean to actually produce a record? Speaking on
an engineering standpoint for a small time studio; where do you feel engineers
should draw the line? I myself have spoken to a few engineers and producers in
my year or so in the field, and have had numerous opinions, suggestions, and
more about what it is to be an engineer for an independent studio.
I came up with the following dos and don’ts of recording an
album as an engineer.
1.
DO always listen to the band members opinions.
This does not mean you always have to agree, but you should always give them
your undivided attention.
2.
DON’T align tracks right to a grid. It makes
tracks, especially drum tracks, sound robotic and inhuman which you tend to
lose that actual band feel when you do this.
3.
DO always treat every mix like it’s going to be
your best mix to date. You shouldn’t fall into that repetitive job pattern;
which can directly reflect in your mixes. I am speaking with EQ a vocal like a
unique vocal, not like the vocal you recorded four months ago.
4.
DON’T accept payments on credit. Get your down
payment up front, and always collect final payment BEFORE releasing the
material. No matter who it is, it could be your mother, there is a chance you
won’t see that money for a long time. Let’s face it, that money is needed!
5.
DO record more takes than you THINK you’ll need.
Comping is your friend in the studio and some random nuance while recording a
take can be your ‘money maker’ in your final mix. I remember a random harmonic
happening during one a take during a recording I did that ended up being in the
final mix.
6.
DON’T be afraid to use multiple microphones.
7.
DO remember what you’re doing. By this I mean
remember your roots, and how much of an honor it is to have customers go to you
for their recordings. I had two return customers come to me this last month,
and I couldn’t have felt any better about what I do.
The above are just my opinions and not to be considered in
anyway shape or form ‘gospel’ as THE WAY to run your studio. Mixing, recording,
and anything involving music is just like someone’s DNA. Everyone is unique,
and so is his or her music work. Respect that, and you are on your way to
running a successful studio.
