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How to Record a Guitar on Computers

Music production software, such as Cubase, Logic, Audacity and Pro Tools, make it possible to record, edit and mix your own music. The "home recording revolution" has made home recording affordable and accessible to anyone with a computer and audio interface. You no longer have to book and pay for a recording studio when you want to record that latest killer riff. Once you've laid down your idea, you can edit it, add a bass line, drums or even sing over it.

Things You'll Need

  • Music production software
  • Audio interface
  • USB cable
  • Instrument cable
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Instructions

    • 1

      Connect an audio interface to your computer. The audio interface converts the audio signal from your guitar into a digital signal that your production software can interpret. Depending on the make and model, you need either a USB or Firewire cable. Connect one end of the cable to the rear of the interface, and connect the other end to the cable to USB or Firewire port on the side of your computer.

    • 2

      Connect an instrument cable to your audio interface. The instrument cable socket typically is on the front panel of the audio interface. Connect the other end to your guitar.

    • 3

      Open your preferred music production program. Double-click the desktop icon or open it from the "Start" menu. If using a Mac, open it from the desktop or "Applications" folder. If you don't have a music production program, there are free downloadable audio recording programs available online, such as Audacity. Click the "Download" link next to the logo for your operating system, for example "Windows." The functionality of this program is very basic, and the sound quality is inferior to industry-standard software, such as Logic or Cubase.

    • 4

      Click "File," and select "New Audio Track" on your recording software to open a new track. The computer automatically assigns the audio interface as the source.

    • 5

      Turn the volume of your guitar up to the maximum. For the best recording, your guitar must deliver the strongest possible signal to the audio interface. Play your guitar as loud as you intend to record. If the red LED warning light on the front of the audio interface flashes, turn down the "Gain" dial, which controls the level of signal that the audio interface sends to the computer.

    • 6

      Press "Record." Play your riff, and once finished, press "Stop." To record a new take, select "New Audio Track."

Recording Music

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