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How to Record with A Capella

When you sing without any background music or instrumental assistance, it is known as a capella singing. An example of a capella singing is Gregorian chants. However, many musical artists utilize this technique to showcase their vocal talents or to use for dramatic effect. To record a capella singing, have a proper microphone and recording software to ensure that your voice is captured in the best possible way.

Things You'll Need

  • Diaphragm condenser vocal microphone
  • Pop screen
  • Recording studio software
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a diaphragm-condenser vocal microphone as these microphones feature technologies designed to enhance the sound of a vocalist. Since a capella recording utilizes no background music, the microphone should have a tailored proximity effect and presence peak to enhance vocal sounds and create deep resonating tones. Attach a pop screen in front of the microphone to prevent the microphone from picking up loud "K," "B," "S" and "P" sounds from the singer.

    • 2

      Select a recording studio software program that best fits your budget and recording desires. Some of the main features to look for in recording software is compatibility with your computer, input/output ports, reverberator control, synthesizer, level matching, pitch matching, automatic pitch detection and a digital vocoder. These features provide the audio engineer with maximum control over the sound quality of an a capella recording.

    • 3

      Place the microphone into a bathroom or some other location in your home with good acoustics to produce the best vocal sounds. While the type of microphone is important, the location of the microphone is also vital--especially when recording a capella.

    • 4

      Record numerous takes, and select the best one. After the best take is captured, edit the track by adding vocal reverb or auto-tune.

Recording Music

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