Recording with Pro Tools (part 1)

So, hopefully today we will start to actually do some recording with Pro Tools. From here on out, every time you do any recording, I want you to think of yourself as an engineer. As an engineer, you are responsible for the quality of the recording. In this class, you are going to follow some basic steps to make sure you get good quality.

Here is my basic recipe for setting up a recording session.

1. First, transfer your Pro Tools session to the instructor station and make sure it opens correctly. Note: All PT sessions should be saved to the folder called Student PT Sessions
   
2. Create a new track (mono, audio) to record your performer on and label it something like "Vox 1".
3. Create a second new track and label it TB.
   
4. Attach the microphone to the mic stand properly.
5. Adjust the mic stand so that the mic is the appropriate height, angle and distance from the performer. Always make sure that the front of the mic is facing the performer!!!
6. Plug all XLR (microphone) cables and headphones into the appropriate spots on the Digi 003 (or mBox).
   
7. Attach a talkback microphone so that you can communicate with the performer.
8. Turn on phantom power (if appropriate).
9. Record enable your tracks by clicking on the little red R button.
10. Adjust the levels of the two mics with the microphone input (aka preamp) knobs on the Digi 003 so that you are getting a strong signal but not clipping.
11. Adjust the performer's headphone level so that he/she can hear both him/herself and the beat.
12. Adjust the level of your own headphones.
13. Check with your performer to make sure he/she is ready and start recording!