Microphones and Multitracking

This unit introduces microphone fundamentals, source preparation, practical mic techniques for common instruments, and the basics of multitrack recording in a home studio. Students will practice choosing and placing microphones, optimizing source sound, and recording layered tracks to prepare mixes in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze characteristics of common microphone types and polar patterns and justify microphone selection for specific vocal and instrument sources in a home recording environment
• Apply gain staging, signal chain setup, and source-preparation techniques to capture a clear, low-noise recorded signal from vocals and typical band instruments
• Demonstrate a range of microphone placement techniques for at least five instrument/voice scenarios and document the sonic differences produced by placement choices
• Evaluate recorded multitrack takes, identify issues such as bleed, phase, and noise, and implement corrective adjustments to improve tonal balance and recording quality