Something I hadn't thought of before

[Uncle Krunkus]

Just thought I'd share this with everyone, as I hadn't thought of it until recently, and maybe others hadn't either.

I used to have my main mix going through a stereo compressor on it's way to the computer line in. I left it there all the time, figuring I'd always have the "option" of putting anything through it while recording into Cakewalk.
I realised the other day that what I really should do is have the output straight to the computer with nothing getting in the way. Then have the compressor into two channels of the mixer. The only things which are likely to need compression are guitar, bass and vocals. (I know that's a generalisation, and compression can be used for a number of other reasons/effects) My point is that all the synths, drum voices, analogue gear etc. can now be recorded in a lot more transparent way, and I lessen the chance of "accidently" compressing nice clunky transients.

[Inventor]

Andy, I have a similar setup for my radio shows. Actually the only input is a pair of wireless headphones. Once the signal is digitized it travels through the software and across the net to the listener in pure digital quality. iTunes and Ventrilo are both added digitally, so the listener enjoys the best possible clarity that 128 kbps mp3 stereo has to offer. No mixer, no analog compression, etc.

Les

[YashN]

Good points indeed. For guidance, always refer to how traditional recording engineers structured their workflow with analogue equipment and tapes.

I find that for vocals, for instance, it's always helpful to gate and compress slightly before going into the box. In the box, if I haven't used gate/compression, I can still compress digitally but doing it early brings you closer to that rough mix earlier, and that's where you want to be as soon as possible.