Music Production: Recording

OVERDUBBING

Overdubbing may be described as any recording that is made onto a hard-disk session file or analogue tape that already has material on it, i.e. when new recording content is added to an ongoing production. Overdubbing is commonly used when it is not possible or advisable for multiple musicians to record simultaneously, be that due to potential microphone ‘leakage’ or other reasons, e.g. musicians that prefer to record alone.

It is not unusual for ensemble or band musicians to feel somewhat ‘detached’ or isolated when playing separately from other group members and such circumstances may lead them to perform with an inappropriate feel. In such cases it is important for the production team to help the artists connect with the pre-recorded ...