Ensure that your computer is capable of running your recording software package before installing it. Connect your audio interface to the computer using patch leads and plug as many microphones as required into the inputs of your audio interface, using XLR leads.
Assign a track on your digital mixing desk to each instrument you are recording. Name the tracks to ensure you know which signal relates to which instrument. Test your levels by playing your instrument while adjusting the volume on your audio interface and checking on your mixer that the signal is not "peaking" at a level of more than 0dB (decibels).
Record your chosen parts, or "tracks," while using the mixing desk on your recording platform to check that the audio signal does not "peak." If you are recording all of your band members simultaneously, obtain an assistant to monitor your levels. Stop recording if a peak is discerned, before adjusting the recording level on your audio interface and starting again.
Record your parts to your satisfaction. Listen back to check for errors, while monitoring the levels on your mixing desk, to ensure that the track has not peaked; this will prevent any unpleasant digital "clipping" sounds from marring your track.
Mix each song by adjusting the volume levels of each track until you are happy with the balance between them. Ensure that no single instrument overwhelms the others by being too loud.
Enhance your basic "rough" mix by using the key sound effects, such as EQ, compression and reverb; these are included with your software package. Read your software package's help section and the links included in the Resources section of this article to learn how to use these effects.
Listen to your finished mix on a wide variety of different sound systems. Ensure that your final mix sounds well balanced on anything from a car radio to a club PA.
Master your mixed album either using a mastering "plug-in" software unit, a mastering console, or by hiring a professional engineer to carry out the vital post-production of your album.