Somewhere along the line, while I was involved in creating an easier home recording system for aspiring recording artists and musicians, I realized that learning how to record on GarageBand not only simplifies the home recording process, but surprisingly, GarageBand showed itself to be a powerful tool in the creative process. In other words, GarageBand becomes an actual songwriting tool.
I understand if the connection between song recording software and song creation isn't immediately apparent. However, the effect of GarageBand on my own career, more than validates this statement.
What is GarageBand?
GarageBand is software for multitrack audio recording. When first released, GarageBand seemed like beginner recording software. However, under the radar, GarageBand has proven itself by profoundly revolutionizing music creation and therefore the business of making music itself.
How to Record on GarageBand - First Steps on the Path to Pro Quality Sound
I recognize that the first meeting between person and software, is the most delicate and tenuous point in the entire relationship. It determines in large part whether the relationship continues or ends before it even gets started. With that in mind let's answer the most basic questions about how to record on GarageBand.
Q: How do I get a sound I play to show up and record in GarageBand?
A: A sound from an instrument or voice that originates in the "real world" (instruments, voice, etc), must be converted to a digital signal that is suitable for the digital world of recording software. Your computer has a built in analog to digital sound converter, allowing you to "plug in and play" directly into the computer. However, for truly high quality sound reproduction, an external hardware converter should be used. (Also known as an I/O box.)
Q: What do I have to know about I/O hardware?
A: External I/O hardware normally attaches to your computer via USB or Firewire cable. Once plugged into your computer's USB or Firewire input, simply set your computer's audio preferences to allow the I/O hardware to handle all incoming and outgoing audio. This will bypass the computer's built-in sound card, thus giving you professional quality analog to digital sound conversion. Do not use the computer's built in sound card if you hope to make professional quality recordings at home.
Q: I have opened GarageBand. What do I do next?
A: The true beauty of GarageBand is that from this point on everything is, and remains, very simple. Go to the upper menu in GarageBand and choose "Create New Track." Each track has a channel which you set to receive a Mono or Stereo signal. If you are simply plugging in a single mic or instrument, the channel should be set to Mono. Click the record button and begin playing or singing. This is your "source sound" and it will show up on the track you created in GarageBand. To add an additional layer or instrument, repeat the process beginning with "create new track." This is the essence of "multi-track" recording.
Q: What if I'm not using a Mac? Can you tell me how to get GarageBand on Windows?
A: GarageBand, so far, is not available for PC. However there is simple multi-track recording software available that is very similar to GarageBand for PC.
Q: So that's how to record on GarageBand. Is it really possible to make professional sounding recordings with GarageBand?
A: The answer is yes. GarageBand provides an elegant and cooperative environment for creating great recordings. However, from this point on you must deepen your understanding of how to capture sound properly and clearly. This is as much the case with all other digital recording software.
In a subsequent article I'll talk about
- home recording tips and tricks
- laying perfect tracks
- more about how to record in GarageBand or any recording software for that matter
- how to edit GarageBand waveforms and "regions."
I invite you to continue this article for more great tips on how to record on Garageband. I am now offering free home studio recording lessons and the exact home recording blueprint method I use to record songs and music for movies, TV, CD release, licensing etc. I have tried to create, what I believe is the simplest and clearest guide available for easily making truly professional sounding recordings at home. Read reviews of recordings made using my methods from some of the best ears in the music business.
Warner/Chappell, Hi Bias, Audio Socket and LoudThud recording artist, songwriter and producer, Owen Critchley has been writing, recording and releasing music for over 15 years. For more information about Owen and his home recording tips, and how to be successful in the new music business, visit http://recordinghomestudio.com
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