multitracking
Recording separate layers
Multitracking is the recording technique of capturing different sounds on separate tracks that can be mixed together.
A band might record drums, bass, guitar, and vocals independently, then blend them into a finished song.
The technique allows adjusting each element's volume, adding effects, or re-recording a single part without affecting the others: We spent hours multitracking the harmonies to get them just right.
Adding layers to recordings
- overdubAdd audio layers post-recording
- layeringForming successive strata
- stackingPlacing items vertically
- bouncingSpringing back repeatedly
punch-in · comping · takes · stems · channels · DAW · session · arrangement
Audio level controls
- levelsHeights or ranked stages
- panningLateral camera traverse
- equalizationMaking things uniform
- mixdownMultitrack consolidation process
bussing · summing · auxiliary · inserts · gain · balance · monitoring · automation
Comfort in distress
- microphoneAudio input device
- headphonesWearable speakers for ears
- audio interfaceSound input/output device
- monitorsTracks or displays
booth · soundproofing · preamp · cables · pop filter · stands · rack · outboard
Pleasing combined pitches
- doublingMultiplying by two
- stackingPlacing items vertically
- chorusSingers performing together
- ensembleUnified group or outfit
blend · acapella · barbershop · duet · backing vocals · lead vocal · adlibs · layers
overdubbing
Adding layers to recordings
- overdubAdd audio layers post-recording
- layeringForming successive strata
- stackingPlacing items vertically
bouncing · punch-in · comping · takes · stems · channels · DAW · session · arrangement · sequencing
faders
Audio level controls
- levelsHeights or ranked stages
- panningLateral camera traverse
- equalizationMaking things uniform
mixdown · bussing · summing · auxiliary · inserts · gain · balance · monitoring · automation · compressor
console
Comfort in distress
- microphoneAudio input device
- headphonesWearable speakers for ears
- audio interfaceSound input/output device
monitors · booth · soundproofing · preamp · cables · pop filter · stands · rack · outboard · mixer
harmonies
Pleasing combined pitches
ensemble · blend · acapella · barbershop · duet · backing vocals · lead vocal · adlibs · layers · octave
drums
Struck membrane instruments
strings · brass · overdubs · rhythm · lead · isolation · bleed · separation · MIDI · virtual instruments
- music productioncomposing, autotune, synthesizer, producing, arranging
- composition techniquescomposing, arranging, orchestration, harmonization, instrumentation
- recordingrecording, mixing, mastering, editing, overdubbing
multitrackinglive performance
Unrecorded staged entertainment
acoustic set · unplugged · live · live music · concert performance
track, trace, tractor, multiply, multiple, tracking, tracked, traction, retrace