3Before the Session: Planning

Ready to record a live gig? The recording will go a lot more smoothly if you plan what you’re going to do. So sit down, grab a pen, and make some lists and diagrams as described here. We’ll go over the steps needed to plan a multitrack recording of a concert.

Selecting a Venue

If you can select a place for the recording, use a room where the audience is attentive and enthusiastic, and the background noise is minimal. Visit some potential venues and check out the noise and acoustics. A very live room with lots of reverb can make the recording muddy. Ideally the stage should be large so the performers can spread apart for better separation. A large stage also reduces leakage from wall reflections.

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