Multitrack recording

Multitracking became possible in the mid-1950s when the idea of simultaneously recording different audio channels to separate discrete tracks on the same reel-to-reel tape was developed.

This allows each track to be fine-tuned individually, such as increasing the voice or lowering the chimes, before combining them into the final product.

Prior to the development of multitracking, the sound recording process required all of the singers, band instrumentalists, and/or orchestra accompanists to perform at the same time in the same space.

Multitrack recording was much more than a technical innovation; it also enabled record producers and artists to create new sounds that would be impossible to create outside of the studio, such as a lead singer adding many harmony vocals with their own voice to their own lead vocal part, an electric guitar player playing many harmony parts along with their own guitar solo, or even recording the drums and replaying the track backwards for an unusual effect.

In the 2000s, multitracking hardware and software for computers was of sufficient quality to be widely used for high-end audio recordings by both professional sound engineers and by bands recording without studios using widely available programs, which can be used on a high-end laptop computer.

Even in the 2010s, with digital multitracking being the dominant technology, the original word track is still used by audio engineers.

The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds also made innovative use of multitracking with eight-track machines of the day (circa 1965).

However, if they had been recorded onto separate tracks, then the artist could blend and alter all of the instrument and vocal sounds with complete freedom.

Multitracking a song also leaves open the possibilities of remixes by the same or future artists, such as DJs.

This has permitted the production of stereophonic or surround sound mixes of recordings that were originally mastered and released in mono.

This 8-track recorder was sold to the American guitarist, songwriter, luthier, and inventor Les Paul for $10,000.

Les Paul, Mary Ford and Patti Page used the technology in the late 1950s to enhance vocals and instruments.

Depending on the capabilities of the system, some instruments, such as a synthesizer or electric guitar, can also be sent to an interface directly using Line level or MIDI inputs.

Direct inputs eliminate the need for microphones and can provide another range of sound control options.

The most sophisticated audio interfaces are external units of professional studio quality which can cost thousands of dollars.

Microphones are often designed for highly specific applications and have a major effect on recording quality.

These preamplifiers can also have a major effect on the sound and come in different price ranges, physical configurations, and capability levels.

Multitrack software may also provide other features that qualify it being called a digital audio workstation (DAW).

Popular multitrack recording software programs include: Reason, Ableton Live, FL Studio, Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, Digital Performer, Cakewalk Sonar, Samplitude, Nuendo, Cubase and Logic.

Effects such as reverb, chorus, and delays can be applied by electronic devices or by computer software.

Musicians recording later tracks use the precise attack of the drum sounds as a rhythmic guide.

The drums and percussion combined can occupy a large number of tracks utilized in a recording.

[citation needed] Sound barriers are often placed between different groups within the orchestra, e.g. pianists, violinists, percussionists, etc.

You can produce wonderful live recordings with just two microphones and a building's inherent acoustics, but that will have to wait for another day.

Taking a feed from the front of house (or FOH) desk directly to tape or DAT is another technique of live recording, although this will only work in large venues where everything is run through the PA system.

[citation needed] A multitrack recording has distinct advantages: it allows you more control after the event because you may fine-tune the mix and correct any obvious mistakes without sacrificing the thrill of the live performance.