Recording and Voice Processing, Volume 2

2Configuration and the Audio System

Before I can move on to actual voice recording, I will describe the audio chain that needs to be set up in a studio to ensure the correct capture of the signal, from the microphone to the various elements and equipment needed.

I will present several configurations suitable for the most common cases, and then I will return in detail to some tools (mic preamps, digital audio interfaces, headphone amps, monitoring speakers, monitoring controller, etc.) that have not yet been presented in this book.

2.1. The capture and processing chain

Presenting the capture chain is a complex subject: each studio works according to its own rules, habits, materials and configurations. I will therefore detail some common cases.

In order to stay in line with the subject of this book, I will focus on the recording process dedicated to voice, although it can be extended to other types of sessions.

2.1.1. Minimum configuration

This first audio chain is the minimum acceptable for a correct voice recording. Figure 2.1 shows the different equipment needed.

This configuration is reserved for a commentator or solo artist. It requires little space and a reasonable investment, but remains limited. It can be extended to a superior solution with a few additional purchases provided that you have planned its future extension, particularly in the choice of the audio interface (number of inputs/outputs).

Figure 2.1. Hardware–software package for a basic configuration. ...