Connect an audio interface to your computer. The method of connection varies, but you typically need one USB or Firewire cable. Connect the cable to the rear of the interface and to the USB or Firewire port on the side of your computer. The interface converts an audio signal into digital data before sending it to the recording interface. This lets you record sounds that weren't generated in Pro Tools, such as voice, guitars, drums and percussion.
Double-click the Pro Tools icon on your desktop. The program will open as a blank session. To call up previous recordings, select "File," "Open Recent" and select the track from the menu.
Click "File," select "New" and when prompted click "New Audio Track." Audio tracks are those that are recorded from an outside source, such as an acoustic guitar or voice. Audio in this context is distinct from other sound sources such as "Pro Tools Instrument" or "MIDI" because the latter two are digitally generated by Pro Tools. If you accidentally select "MIDI Instrument" or "Pro Tools Instrument," Pro Tools will not assign the audio interface to a recording channel and the audio will not record.
Connect an audio source to the interface. This can be a microphone, in which case use an XLR cable to connect it to the XLR input on the interface. It can also be an instrument cable to record an electric guitar or bass, in which case connect a 1/4-inch instrument cable to the input jack on the interface.
Audition the audio signal. Play your guitar or sing into the microphone and monitor the meter section on the Pro Tools Essential interface. If the red LED warning light flashes, the signal level is too high. This causes distortion on the recording. Reduce the signal level by turning the "Gain" dial on the audio interface to the left.
Set up a click tempo. The click is a digitally generated metronome sound, it provides a tempo guide and helps to keep you in time when you are playing. The default tempo for a click is 120 beats per minute (BPM). This is a moderate tempo. Adjust the tempo to one that suits you. Click "Track" on the main menu bar at the top of the interface, select "Tempo" and then type in your preferred tempo in digits.
Press "Record" and perform your audio track.