Vocal chain tracking

[Skyweaver]

Heya Guys

I'm tracking vocals via U87 > Buzz Audio MA2.2 > Fireface 800

I'm toying with the idea that we could use a compressor in the loop, is that really a necessary ?

is it really a better option that makes a real difference.

keen for any guidence

 

[Bay Studio]

Well, i guess it wouldnt be a bad idea, if you compress it lightly (just "kissing it") going in, unless you´re gonna send it out for mixing to some studio, i would leave it totally raw (uncompressed). Basically, everyone does it different and in his or her way. Try it out if you dig it and it sounds right to your ears, go for it
I always compress when recording, but thats "in the box", i compressed once going in with a dbx-outboard comp and i had slight problems in the mix later on...so, i ditched that haha

 

[RichS]

I always compress to tape.

 

[Fandus]

I run a 1176, 8:1 ratio, medium attack fast release hitting -5db GR on peaks on the way in. Levels it out a bit and protects agains clipping.

 

[Top Ground Studios]

I run a 1176, 8:1 ratio, medium attack fast release hitting -5db GR on peaks on the way in. Levels it out a bit and protects agains clipping.

+1

 

[greyskull]

I more or less always compress vocals and bass on the way in. I try not to go too crazy as you can't undo it.. Normally with an 1176 4:1 attack 2 release 6, 4-7 db of reduction on REALLY loud bits.

 

[CubanDude]

Also compress on the way in, also makes the singer feel more comfortable

 

[Mikaël-ange]

I always compress while tracking vox.
2:1 or 4:1 ratio, medium attack, medium to slow release, 2db gr max.

But what not everyone speak about (and what every big tracking engineer do) is riding the threshold from part to part/line by line. It's tedious but it work so much better imho.