HOW TO RECORD DRUMS

plixplixpdp · Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2007 9:03 pm Post subject: HOW TO RECORD DRUMS

So basically I have no clue at all on how to record drums, other than that you need mics and some kind of PC software.

Ok, so I want to know what I need to buy (other than mics), in order to get a mini studio set up.

Do I need a certain type of windows (xp,me,vista,etc.) to record?
What is the software called?
What do I plug the mics into?

Basically I am a Newbie to recording and any info would be appreciated.

Thank You,

Plix
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The Evil Creampuff · Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2007 12:41 am Post subject:

I'm by no means an expert but i would say any computer would be fine as long as it can run programs like cubase, or audacity as a free alternative, someting like that.

In terms of what to run the mics into, i would assume you'll need a small mixing desk or even just a sound card with more than a couple of input ports.

I've never actually done any serious recording but i doubt it would be too difficult.

scrubs · Little Hamster Joined: 24 Nov 2005 Posts: 77

This is my reply from similar question at drums.com:

You'll need:

Mics - at least one for each thing you want to mic simultaneously. You can record a drumkit with a single mic, or go crazy and mic the top and bottom of each drum, cymbal, plus a few room mics. I'd say you can get a decent quality sound out of 3-4 mics, placed well. In general, dynamic mics are preferred for close-miking of drums, while condensers are preferred for overheads and room mics.

Preamps/Mixer/Interface/Soundcard - You can get these separately, or buy an all-in-one type unit. Again, you'll need one channel of preamp for each thing you'll want to mic simultaneously and an interface/soundcard that will allow you to send all those signals to the computer. Avoid anything with the name Creative/Soundblaster for recording.

Computer/Software - You need a fast enough computer to handle the recording and mixing, plus recording software that will be able to handle as many tracks as you're planning to record. A lot of recording interfaces come with software.

Cables - You'll need lots of mic cables, plus cables to go from the preamps/mixer to the soundcard/interface, unless you buy an all-in-one unit with built-in preamps. Add headphone extension cables, monitor cables, etc.

Stands - You'll need at least one mic stand for each mic, unless you are using a stereo bar for your overheads/rack toms, etc. You could get clamps that attach to the rims for toms, but they will pick up more vibration from the kit.

Headphones/Headphone amp - If you're recording a band, you'll want headphones for everyone and a headphone amp that can drive that many pairs of headphones. You'll also need cables to go from the soundcard to the headphone amp and probably some headphone extension cables.

Monitors - If you're planning on mixing your own music, you'll need some decent quality speakers to do so. Mixing exclusively on headphones or cheap computer speakers is generally a bad idea.

Acoustic Treatment - This is an area where most home studios really fail. The quality of the room(s) you are recording and mixing in will have a serious impact on your results as the microphones will pick up the ambience of the room. If you're recording in a tiny bedroom, you're recordings will sound like they were made in a tiny bedroom. Most small rooms have serious frequency buildup/cancellation which will affect both your recordings and your ability to mix the recordings. Can you record without it? Sure, but the results won't be nearly as good.

More cables...

plixplixpdp · Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2007 7:21 am Post subject:

Thanks for replies! I'll see what I can get.
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thefly2333 · Sea Monkey Joined: 22 May 2007 Posts: 14

You can always go midi!