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How to Sing in a Studio

Singing in a studio presents different challenges than performing onstage. The studio singer needs to train her voice to deal with headphones, room acoustics and the way pre-amps and other equipment processes her vocals and the accompanying music. And working with a producer and engineer can be difficult for an unprepared vocalist. Read the tips below on how to sing in a recording studio.

Things You'll Need

  • Microphone
  • Headphones
  • Pop (microphone) filter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Listen to the vocals in headphones and make sure that it comes through clearly. Ask the producer to change the vocal level in the "cans" (producer lingo for headphones) until you can hear it properly. If other instruments in the mix interfere with the vocal sound, ask the producer to eliminate music and leave only the vocals in the headphone.

    • 2

      Choose the correct microphone. An omnidirectional microphone works best for singers who move around a lot. Choose a microphone that suits your particular voice qualities. A nasal voice requires a different mic than a thin, shrill or loud vocal. Stand four to six inches away from the microphone for best recorded sound.

    • 3

      Vary the volume and tone of the vocals. Move closer to the mic for ballads and back away to about 12 inches when singing louder passages. Your voice may sound different to the producer than it does to your ears, so listen to her opinion after the final take with music added.

    • 4

      Check the way studio equipment, like pre-amps, pop filters and mics make your voice sound before final takes. Experiment with placement and combinations before the producer saves a final take.

    • 5

      Acclimate yourself to the studio space. Arrange furniture to your liking or personalize the vocal booth with photographs or other mementos. Dim the lighting or use candles to foster a creative atmosphere.

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