Download a free audio recording program such as Audacity or Wavepad. These programs let you record audio using the microphone on your computer. If your computer doesn’t have a microphone, plug a PC microphone into the microphone socket on your computer.
Click “File” and select “New.” This opens a blank session. When prompted, give the session a name. Use the song name but put “DEMO” in brackets.
Tune the stringed instruments. Use a clip-on tuner for acoustic guitars and plug electric instruments into a chromatic tuner. It’s important to tune to a stable pitch reference before recording.
Position the computer so that the microphone captures each instrument equally. If space permits, have each member of the band sit approximately 24 inches away from the microphone. If using percussion, have the percussionist sit 36 inches away from the microphone.
Turn off any noise-making devices such as fans and cell phones. Click “Record” on the software interface. Use hand signals to count in, and begin performing. Perform a thirty-second rendition of a song as a sound-check.
Hit “Play” and listen to the recording. If an instrument is too quiet, have that musician sit closer to the microphone. Since you are recording into a single microphone, there is no way to adjust the levels of individual instruments. Take time to get the mix right at the source.
Click “Record.” Count in using hand signals and record your first take.
Hit “Play” and listen to the recording. If you hear a mistake, record another take. If it’s a good take, click “File” and select “Save.”
Click “File,” then “Export As” and select “Export As MP3.” Select a location on your computer to save the MP3 version. Repeat this process to record another two songs. Select your three catchiest songs.
Open your preferred music player, such as iTunes or Windows Media Player. Click “File” and select “Import.” Select the MP3 files that you recorded.
Make a new playlist. The method to start a new playlist is typically straightforward, but varies according to program. For example, in iTunes click on the “New Playlist” button.
Drag your audio files into the new playlist.
Insert a blank, recordable CD into the CD tray on your computer and click on the “Burn Disc” icon.