Alternatives to digitally based recording for creative Musicians like you

By Mark Grove

A lot of you will think I'm just a Music Journalist who doesn't know shit. Think what ever you like, I just know there are other forms of recording at home besides digital or computer based recording and composing units. Even for those of you who have an unlimited budget, we always go back to the warmth and more natural recording texture of yes that old stand-by, Analog.


But at the same time you want to record in a professional and quality way that will even rival digitally based recording ventures.



Even if you do use strictly Analog,you have to consider that you may not be using highly-priced workhorse amps like Rivera and Ampeg,or top of the line drum kits or expensive pre-amp devices either.You have to be creative with what you have guys and gals.

You can actually come out with some fine recordings that Are Analog based, just have patience and record your drums,vocals and guitar as separate tracks to fine tune each track more optimally. But if you're just starting out and feel you can't or don't have the experience to sequence your recording,don't fret,you can still record everything at once with an Analog studio recorder that's portable.


If you can,try to find a good deal on an old 4-track cassette recorder. The old Tascams are a good find, and these have a built-in EQ, and Mixer all in one. You can also get 8 track Analog units. They're out there you just have to look in the right places.Look at the Major music magazines, their discussion boards, or go on e-bay.



The quality of 4 and 8 track tapes is on the lower side,but you can clean up your Analog recordings without resorting to strictly Digitally recording everything,which is worse if you don't know how to record and master properly.



Just try to master the basics of mixing and recording tracks separately. If you need some assistance recording,ask the sound man at the club you frequent,or any musicians you know that have recorded albums themselves. Keep an open mind when it comes to recording and think about Analog for your next demo or acoustic album.



The possibilities are endless. Just write down a few ideas and incorporate them into your Analog recordings.


Mark Grove http://www.canadianguitarplayer.com/

http://www.tascam.com/