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How to Create a Spatial Sound Effect

When recording music with a microphone, a producer will inevitably have to deal with the influence of the room in which the singer or instrumentalist is performing. Many of the greatest albums have been recorded in unique sound environments such as large houses, kitchens, auditoriums, concert halls or closets. An amateur producer may not have these environments available and may want to use current post-processing technology to mimic sonic environments. Luckily, many audio programs use advanced sound processing technology to create the illusion of different sound environments. There are a variety of different ways to achieve spatial sound effects.

Things You'll Need

  • An audio recording program such as Adobe Audition, Garage Band or Pro Tools
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use reverb. The easiest way to achieve an environmental effect is with reverberation, because it can be done while an instrument is played before post-processing. Reverb is the persistence of sound in a space after the sound is removed. Increasing reverb gives the illusion that the sound is resonating longer. High reverb is akin to recording in a metal room or auditorium, while low reverb simulates recording in a room with cushioned walls to absorb sound. Hook your microphone up to the many amplifiers and effects pedals that allow reverb adjustments.

    • 2

      Use an environmental audio extension. Environmental audio extensions, or EAX, are digital signal processing presets developed by Creative present in Creative sound cards for computers. EAX simulates real world audio environments by adding various effects. EAX programs can be downloaded from the Creative website, if you have a Creative sound card. Use the programs to generate audio spatial effects.

    • 3

      You can also use echo chamber effects pedals. These pedals allow changes in room space, and can add echo, reverb and chorus. The Roland RE-501 and the Maxon DE-01 are audio effects devices that can add spatial effects.

    • 4

      Use echo chambers in post-processing. Garage Band, Pro Tools, Adobe Audition and various other music programs all have methods for creating echo chamber and environment effects. There are many video tutorials available online, depending on which program you are using.

Digital Music

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