how to record music/covers (for beginners/noobs)

Summary

This video script offers a beginner's guide to recording music and posting it online. It covers the essentials of equipment selection, from basic devices like iPods to professional setups with cameras and microphones. The tutorial also includes advice on choosing the right microphone, using an audio interface, and recording with software like Audacity or Logic Pro X. Finally, it touches on syncing audio and video, and uploading the finished product to platforms like YouTube or streaming services.

Takeaways

• 🎵 If you have a song idea and want to record it, this guide will help you through the process.
• 🎥 Recording music can be as simple or complex as you want, depending on your budget and preferences.
• 📱 Basic equipment for recording could be as simple as using your iPod, phone, or camera.
• 🎤 Investing in a good microphone is crucial for capturing clear vocals, with USB mics being a good starting point.
• 🔊 A condenser microphone offers higher sound quality and requires an audio interface for setup.
• 🔗 An audio interface acts as a translator, converting microphone and instrument signals into a format recognized by your computer.
• 🎙️ Audio interfaces can have multiple inputs for recording various instruments or vocals simultaneously.
• 💻 Recording software like Audacity is free and suitable for beginners, while more advanced options include Logic Pro X, FL Studio, and Ableton.
• 🎬 If you're using a microphone, you'll need to record audio separately and sync it with your video in post-production.
• 📹 After recording, you can use video editing software like Final Cut or iMovie to sync your audio and video.
• 🌐 Once your video is edited, you can upload it to platforms like YouTube or upload your audio to streaming services.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video script?

The main purpose of the video script is to guide beginners through the process of recording a song or cover and uploading it online.

What does the video suggest for those who are confused about recording music online?

The video suggests that viewers should familiarize themselves with their equipment and follow the steps outlined in the script to record and upload their music online.

What are the different types of equipment mentioned for recording music?

The equipment mentioned ranges from using an iPod Touch or a phone for casual recording to professional setups with cameras, lights, and backup dancers for more complex productions.

What is the recommended starting point for someone looking to record music on a budget?

For those on a budget, the video recommends starting with a USB mic for easy setup and then considering a condenser mic for higher sound quality.

What is the role of an audio interface in recording music?

An audio interface converts microphone and instrument signals into a format that a computer recognizes, acting as a middleman that translates audio signals.

What are some budget-friendly audio interfaces and microphones suggested in the script?

The script mentions that budget mics and audio interfaces will be shown on the screen and linked in the description below for viewers to check out.

What is the difference between a USB mic and a condenser mic in terms of setup?

A USB mic is simpler with a direct USB connection to the computer, while a condenser mic requires an XLR cable plugged into an audio interface, which is then connected to the computer.

What software is mentioned for recording vocals or instruments?

The script mentions Audacity as a free option and Logic Pro X as a more advanced, paid option for recording vocals or instruments.

How does one record separate audio using a microphone as described in the script?

To record separate audio with a microphone, one needs an application or program like Audacity or Logic Pro X, and an audio interface connected to the computer.

What is the final step mentioned in the script for uploading the recorded music?

The final step is to sync the audio and video using editing software like Final Cut or iMovie, and then upload the finished product to platforms like YouTube or streaming services.

What does the video offer for viewers who have questions about the process?

The video offers the opportunity for viewers to leave questions in the comments, with the promise that the creator will read and respond to them.

Outlines

00:00

🎤 Recording Basics for Aspiring Musicians

This paragraph introduces the topic of recording music and posting it online for beginners who may be overwhelmed by the process. It emphasizes the importance of understanding one's equipment, which can vary greatly depending on the project's scope. The speaker offers guidance on recording covers or original songs, suggesting that the setup can be as simple or complex as desired, from using an old iPod to a full production with multiple cameras and backup dancers. The focus then shifts to the basics, such as choosing the right recording device, whether it's a smartphone or a high-end camera. For those willing to invest, the paragraph suggests considering a quality microphone for clear vocals and possibly an audio interface for higher sound quality, explaining the role of an audio interface in converting signals for computer recognition. The speaker also mentions the possibility of recording multiple instruments simultaneously with the right equipment.

05:01

🎵 From Recording to Uploading: A Step-by-Step Guide

The second paragraph continues the discussion on music recording, focusing on the process after the initial setup. It details how to record audio separately from video, using a microphone connected to an audio interface, and then recording with a digital audio workstation (DAW) like Logic Pro X. The speaker provides a brief tutorial on setting up a new project in Logic Pro X, selecting the correct audio input and output, and starting the recording process. The paragraph also touches on the possibility of recording multiple tracks, such as vocals and guitar simultaneously. After recording, the speaker mentions syncing audio and video using editing software and concludes with the final step of uploading the finished product to platforms like YouTube or streaming services. The video script ends with an invitation for viewers to ask questions and a promise to respond to comments, emphasizing the beginner-friendly nature of the content provided.

Keywords

💡Recording

Recording in the context of the video refers to the process of capturing audio or video content, typically for the purpose of sharing it online. It is central to the video's theme as it discusses how to record music covers or songs. The script mentions various equipment and techniques for recording, such as using an iPod, phone, camera, or a condenser microphone.

💡Equipment

Equipment in this video script pertains to the devices and tools needed to record music or songs. It is crucial for achieving high-quality recordings and is discussed in relation to different budgets and needs. Examples include iPods, phones, cameras, microphones, and audio interfaces, which are all mentioned as potential equipment for recording.

💡Cover

A cover in the video refers to a version of a song that is performed by someone other than the original artist. The script discusses recording covers and posting them online, emphasizing the creative aspect of reinterpreting existing songs. The process of recording a cover can vary from casual to complex, depending on the individual's preference and resources.

💡Mic

A mic, or microphone, is a device used to capture sound, particularly vocals in this video. It is highlighted as an essential piece of equipment for recording clear and crisp vocals. The script discusses different types of microphones, such as USB mics and condenser mics, and their respective setups and uses.

💡Condenser Mic

A condenser mic is a type of microphone that is sensitive and typically used for capturing vocals or delicate sounds. In the video, it is recommended for higher sound quality compared to USB mics. The script explains that a condenser mic requires an audio interface and an XLR cable for setup, emphasizing its role in achieving professional sound recordings.

💡Audio Interface

An audio interface is a device that converts microphone and instrument signals into a format that a computer can recognize. It acts as a middleman in the recording process, translating audio signals. The script mentions that an audio interface is necessary for using a condenser mic and can support multiple inputs for recording various instruments.

💡XLR Cable

An XLR cable is a type of connector used in professional audio setups to transmit balanced audio signals. In the context of the video, it is used to connect a condenser mic to an audio interface. The script explains that this setup is necessary for recording with a condenser mic, highlighting its importance in the recording process.

💡Recording Software

Recording software, also referred to as a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) in the script, is a program used to record, edit, and produce audio. The video mentions Audacity, a free option, as well as other paid software like Logic Pro X, FL Studio, and Ableton. These tools are essential for recording and editing audio tracks separately from video.

💡Syncing Audio and Video

Syncing audio and video involves aligning the recorded audio with the video footage. This is a crucial step in the post-production process of creating music videos or covers. The script suggests using software like Final Cut or iMovie to achieve this, emphasizing the importance of a seamless audio-visual experience.

💡Streaming Platform

A streaming platform in the video refers to online services where users can upload and share their music or videos. The script mentions platforms like YouTube and Spotify, where recorded music can be posted for public viewing or listening. This is the final step in the process of sharing recorded music with an audience.

💡Budget

Budget in the video script refers to the financial resources available for purchasing recording equipment and software. The video discusses options for different budgets, from no-budget recordings using basic devices like iPods to more elaborate setups involving professional equipment. The script emphasizes the importance of choosing equipment that fits one's financial capabilities.

Highlights

Introduction to the process of recording music and posting it online.

The importance of being familiar with your equipment for recording music.

Equipment can vary depending on the platform you're posting to, like YouTube or Spotify.

Recording a cover can be as simple or complex as desired, depending on personal taste.

Basic equipment needed includes a device to record yourself, like an iPod or phone.

Investing in a microphone is crucial for capturing crisp and clean vocals.

Budget microphones are available for those starting out, with options displayed on screen and linked in the description.

USB microphones are recommended for beginners due to their easy setup.

Condenser microphones offer higher sound quality and require a different setup.

An audio interface is necessary to convert microphone and instrument signals for computer recognition.

Audio interfaces can have multiple inputs for recording various instruments simultaneously.

Budget audio interfaces are suggested for beginners, with options linked in the description.

Recording separate audio is necessary when using a microphone, not just the camera.

Software like Audacity is recommended for beginners for recording vocals or instruments.

Professional software options include Logic Pro X, FL Studio, and Ableton.

A step-by-step guide on how to use Logic Pro X for recording vocals.

Instructions on syncing audio and video using software like Final Cut or iMovie.

Final steps include uploading the video to YouTube or the audio to streaming platforms.

The video concludes with an invitation for questions and comments from viewers.

Transcripts

[Music]

so

you have a really cool idea a song you

want to sing or record

you want to put it online for everyone

to see but you don't know how to do it

like any of it you don't even know where

to start and you've looked all over

but you're so confused about it all

sounds a little something like you

yup that's me well look no further

you're at the right place so sit tight

grab a drink and notepad and let's get

into it shall we

[Music]

when it comes to recording covers or

music to post online

being familiar with your equipment is

everything

so it really does depend on what you're

doing though your equipment is going to

vary so you could be trying to post

a cover on youtube or you could be

posting a song on spotify

whatever it is i'll help you through it

and i got you

recording a cover could be as casual or

as

complex and fancy as you want it to be

depending on whatever your taste is

from no budget recording from your 2010

ipod

to full-on cameras from every angle

lights backup dancers whatever floats

your goat

but before we get to the backup dancers

let's just

break it down to the basics

so first things first you're gonna need

whatever it is you're going to record

yourself with

whether that be your ipod touch or your

phone or your camera to capture your

pores in 4k

even better and maybe this is where the

equipment list stops for you because

you're not trying to get any new

equipment

but if you got the moola maybe you got a

job or maybe you're like 2014 me

who saved every single dollar and

refused to spend it on anything so that

she could afford equipment

you know to each their own then the next

few things would be a great investment

for you

next on the list is a mic to capture

your crisp and clean vocals

so there are loads to choose from at

different price points so make sure to

do your research and figure out which

one works best for your budget

so here are some budget mics i'll have

them pop up on the screen right now and

i'll also link them

in the description below so make sure to

check that out for those of you who are

just starting off which i know a lot of

you guys

are i'd recommend maybe starting off

with the usb mic because

setup is super easy it's literally just

a usb

from the mic plugged into your computer

but for higher sound quality i'd

recommend using a condenser mic

which has a whole different setup but

i'll explain that it's super easy trust

me

a condenser mic setup is a condenser

microphone plugged into an audio

interface using

an xlr cable which is then plugged into

a computer

usually via usb simple and if you're not

sure what audio interface does

it simply converts microphone and

instrument signals into a format that

your computer recognizes so basically

a middleman that translates everything

or like if you're from an immigrant

family

than that one kid who translates

everything for their parents because

they can't speak english

depending on the type of interface that

you have you can record different types

of audio in many different ways

so if your audio interface has multiple

mic preamps and you can plug in multiple

mics to record at the same time

or if you have designated inputs for

instruments you can plug in your guitar

your bass

or your synth or digital piano you can

do all that

or plug it into a mixing console and

record multiple instruments

at the same time and here are some

budget interfaces that you can start off

with

and of course i'll be linking them in

the description below

now that you have all the equipment that

you need the next step is recording

finally and if you're recording straight

from your camera and you're not using a

mic then this wouldn't apply to you

but if you're using a mic then you're

going to have to record separate audio

and here's how first you're going to

need an application or a program

or a doll to record your vocals or your

instruments

back in the day i used to use audacity

which is this

free program that you can download

online it's available for mac

pc and linux and it's free and if you

guys are just beginning and you guys

aren't trying to edit too much to your

vocals or anything

i'd say go for this or if you guys are

looking to invest into a better doll

there's logic pro x there's fl studio

ableton

pro tools list goes on currently i use

logic pro x so

i'm going to jump straight into teaching

you guys how to work with the basics

hi i'm in logic right now and i'm about

to open up the new project

so we're going to go straight into

selecting audio because

i'm going to be recording vocals make

sure that your input and output is

correct

and then we can press create

and we're going to make sure that our

audio interface is plugged in we can

select on preferences

audio and when we look into input

devices i have mine right here selected

and we can go straight into recording so

make sure that your interface is plugged

in turned on and we can just go straight

into pressing the record button that's

right here

or we can press r so let's say we have a

guitar that we want to record

while singing for this cover we can

select a new track it's like guitar or

bass my input is input two outputs

correct and create

and there we can select

r to record both audios and then

whenever we're ready we can just select

the red button to record all

right

[Music]

oh baby tell me

now that you have your audio and your

video recorded you can sync them up

using final cut you can use imovie maybe

you have an app on your phone that you

want to do this all on

do whatever works for you but after that

you can go straight onto youtube and

upload your video or you can take that

audio and upload it onto some streaming

platform

and you're pretty much done and that's

it for today's video i hope you guys

enjoyed it

i know it's very basic and it's only

covering very like beginner

entry-level things but this is for

beginners so hopefully this is helpful

for you guys

um if you guys have any questions make

sure to leave them down below i'll make

sure to read the comments and get to you

guys as soon as i can

so thanks so much for watching and until

next time

bye

[Music]

you