Vocal Workflow

VOCAL TRACKING

Setting Up the SessionThe engineer prepares the session by importing the instrumental track, setting the correct BPM, and configuring autotune. He uses different techniques like tap tempo, mixed in key software, and auto key plugin to determine the right BPM and key. He also sets up routing, groups autotune plugins, and copies settings to ensure everything is ready before recording.

Recording Vocals and Comping Takes The vocalist does multiple takes of each section while the engineer gives direction. The engineer compiles the best takes into a final vocal track, listening for things like tone, pitch, and rhythmic feel. He uses playlisting to audition different sections of each take in context.

How To Boost VocalsI usually keep my gain staging about 30. And I would like to see him maxing between three and five. The input is where you're going to get your gain reduction and all your compression. If we ain't going to work, we should let go.

Editing and Comping TechniqueThe engineer explains his process for smoothly comping takes together. He focuses on creating a tight rhythmic loop at the beginning to establish the pocket. Then he goes through line by line, doing 2-line sections, crossfading between takes. If needed, he has the vocalist punch in new takes for any missing parts.

Mixing VocalsThe engineer dials in the vocal chain, setting the preamp gain, compression, and other processing. He aims for a certain level coming into the box and adjusts gain staging through the signal flow. He shares his approach to compression, attack, release, and ratio for vocals.

How To CompileWhen I'm comping, the things that I look for are character, tone, pitch. I want the vocal to feel like it's meshing well with that. I make sure that I have a solid loop so that way when things restart, it doesn't feel off.

How To CompileThe key is using these plugins subtly during the comping process to get the best composite take. Moderation is important to avoid over-processing the vocals at this stage. The vocals can be further processed after comping is complete.

Vocal Plug-ins

• EQ Plugin - An equalizer plugin like FabFilter Pro-Q can be used to shape the tone and timbre of the vocals. You may want to EQ each take slightly differently to get the best sound.
• Compressor Plugin - A compressor like Waves Renaissance Compressor or FabFilter Pro-C can help control the dynamics and get a more even vocal performance. Fast attack and medium release settings often work well for vocals.
• De-Esser - A de-esser like Waves DeEsser can tame harsh sibilance and high frequencies in the vocals. This can help the vocals sit nicely in the mix.
• Pitch Correction - A pitch correction plugin like Antares Auto-Tune or Melodyne can fix any pitch issues in the vocals and keep them in tune. The comping process may reveal certain takes that need pitch correction.
• Delay/Echo - Short delays or echoes from plugins like SoundToys EchoBoy or Waves H-Delay can help vocals fit in the space of the mix. Subtle delay effects can make a big difference.
• Reverb - Using a reverb like ValhallaRoom or Waves RVerb can give the vocal more space and blend it with the instrumental. Plate and hall reverbs often work well on vocals.