Vocal Production
Mics, Mic Pres & Plugins
Welcome to the April issue of RECORDING Magazine with a focus on vocal production.
Whether you yodel, croon, belt it out, sing softly, rap, or growl like a monster, a good vocal performance is one of, if not the most essential elements of any song—at least in popular recorded music over the past century. Our aim for the April issue is to help you capture and craft stellar vocal tracks.
Reviews
We have 11 reviews this month. We start at the beginning of the recording chain with a trio of microphones. We check out the new MV7i from Shure, a smart mic and interface rolled into one. Next up, we capture your tracks in incredible detail with the Sanken CUX-100K condenser, followed by the classic, Austrian-inspired Vanguard V14.
Of course, every mic needs to partner with a solid preamp, and the 8-channel SPL P8 mic preamp and A/D converter has got you covered.
For your vocal processing needs, we explore the latest vocal processing v2.2 update for the Eventide H9000. Inside the box, we align our vocal takes with the new Sync VX from Waves, then we trick them out with the new Hex FX bundle from Serato and PITCH SHIFT PRO from Zynaptiq. Finally, we infuse some warmth using the Tape J-37 plugin from Arturia.
In the realm of virtual instruments, we present the Roland GALAXIAS, and we conclude our reviews with Auto Delay, an innovative modular effects pedal from Game Changer Audio.
Interview
This month’s interview is with singer-songwriter Dick Prall, also known as Dickie. His latest 5-song EP, Headful of Hiss, is described as a blend of “lush folk, irresistibly catchy pop, yearning alternative, windswept heartland rock, and the timeless sensibility of ’60s classics.” The tracks were recorded using some classic (even famous, some might say) recording gear, and the album was mixed in Atmos by Phill Young at TRILIX Studio in Des Moines, IA. [GET IT HERE]
Features
We have four vocal-centric features this month. Los Angeles-based producer and engineer Jenso Plymouth is back to delve into some of his favorite vocal tuning and production processes [GET IT HERE] and Dave Martin shares time-tested vocal recording tips in this issue’s installment of RECORDING Techniques. [GET IT HERE] In his popular Inside The Studio column, producer Mark Hornsby offers his tips and suggestions for recording a vocalist during their first time in a recording studio. [GET IT HERE] Additionally, in this month’s RECORDING Field Notes, Giles Reaves helps us Give The Singer What They Want. [GET IT HERE]
Joe Albano is also back with lesson number four in his year-long exploration of setting up a home studio. [GET IT HERE]
There is a lot to sing about in the April issue of RECORDING Magazine.