Home Recording vs. Studio
As you will see from the other
features in this section, it is becoming more and more feasible to set up a home recording system and obtain
professional results. So, does that mean you shouldn’t consider the studio option? Both methods have their
fans, with cost and control often cited as the main benefits of the DIY approach. However, let’s just look at
the advantages a professional studio can offer:
First off, and to state the obvious,
the recording studio is purpose-built to churn out professional recordings. It should already have the latest
equipment, which will nearly always be better and more expensive than any home-based gear. But
state-of-the-art technology is not much use without the expertise to exploit it. And here’s where the main
advantage of the studio kicks in – the professional recording engineer.
As long as you choose a studio run by
a serious engineer who cares about your music, you’ll be able to just concentrate on recording your songs and
leave the technical details to the expert. You won’t have to worry about the specs of the computer, the
soundcard or the cables connecting the preamps.
The engineer will know about room
acoustics. This is something that is difficult to control in a home studio environment, yet is probably one
of the most important factors in determining the sound of a recording. A good studio will have spent much
time and money perfecting their acoustics.
An engineer will also know about
correct microphone selection and have the facility to change the mics when necessary; for example by putting
a bright mic on a vocalist who has been sounding dull. It’s hard to justify an expensive collection of
microphones as part of a home studio set-up, but a recording studio will have this equipment readily
available. The engineer will be able to suggest where to place the mics to achieve the desired sound which
could avoid hours of experimenting.
Now, of course, all this comes at a
price. Hiring a studio and engineer is not going to be cheap – at least if you pick a good one. But this
could work in your favour. Spending money can focus the mind. You’ll be determined to get the best value per
hour so you’ll take the time to get your guitar set up beforehand and you’ll ensure that your songs are ultra
tight and ready to go. This sense of urgency and focus could result in a faster, better quality recording
than one made after weeks of tinkering in a home environment.
Ultimately, you need to decide what
method is going to work best for you, taking into account your personality and those of the other band
members involved in the recording. But the decision isn’t one that should only be determined by
finance.
Frank
Dee
© 2006 - 2009 CareersInMusic.co.uk
Related articles and features:
How to Set Up up A Home Studio
Home Recording Studio Basics
How To Create Backing Tracks (if you don't play all of the
instruments..or any!)
Music Production and Mixing Tips and Tricks
Online Recording Studio Options
How to get your Music Professionally Recorded for Free
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