Contact Your Guide
Like all the Guides here at About.com, I'm a real person, and I'm always available for your questions or comments. You can always email me at homerecording.guide@about.com, and I'll do my best to get back to you as quick as possible. I welcome your suggestions for new articles and tutorials, as well. Also, fellow sound engineers: if you'd be interested in having your home studio featured on this site, or you'd like to be considered for a guest article, get in touch!
In the meantime, check out the FAQs on this page to some common questions, and browse the Home Recording site in depth to find the answer you're looking for. If something you need isn't covered, or you have more in-depth questions, drop me a line.
In the meantime, check out the FAQs on this page to some common questions, and browse the Home Recording site in depth to find the answer you're looking for. If something you need isn't covered, or you have more in-depth questions, drop me a line.
F.A.Q.
- Q. Where can I download a certain software or plug-in for free?
- A. I understand how it is when starting your home studio; software is expensive, and it's tempting to simply download it for free. The bottom line is very simple, though: software piracy is illegal, not to mention the fact that pirated software offers no customer support. Just because it's common to pirate doesn't make it right. That being said, I won't help you pirate, but I'd be more than happy to help you find a retailer in your area, or even suggest a cheaper subsitute to meet your budget.
- Q. Can you tell me how a certain mic technique will sound on the instrument/band I'm recording?
- A. Short answer: yes and no. One thing to remember is that every situation is different. While I can tell you how using a certain technique might make your recording sound, I can't compensate for every circumstance in my prediction. The temperature of the room, the quality of the instruments, the isolation of the room, and the quality of of the player's technique can all make a difference in your recording. Remember, experiment!
- Q. I'd like to make sound engineering and/or recording my career; how can I get started? Any advice for someone starting out?
- A. Congrats on choosing audio engineering as a career! If you have a passion for music and technology, you'll be a great fit. The first piece of advice I can give you? Learn as much as you can. Ask questions, read books, don't be afraid to admit you don't know something. Second, look for a college with a great program in music technology or recording technology. Third? Be persistent. Learn from your mistakes. Experience can give you a better education than any book. Good luck!