Work Methods: Getting A Satisfactory - Tascam M-200 Series Owner's Manual

Work Methods: Getting a Satisfactory Recording
As we mentioned on the first page of this
manual, recording is an art as well as
a
science.
Art has a special and intangible quality that sets
it apart. In order to create art, the artist must
have the proper tools, command of the tech-
niques of those tools, and a healthy dose of
inspiration. Your Series 200 Mixer is the tool.
The command of the techniques will involve
some practice and some thought on your part.
Inspiration is a matter for you and your muse.
The following paragraphs are here to provide
you with information, suggestions, and some
perspectives regarding the mixing processes and
your M-208 or M-216. There are three funda-
menta1 notions upon which these suggestions
are based; Planning, Apparent and Absolute
Values, and Common Sense. We'll talk in detail
about Planning and Apparent and Absolute
Values, we hope that you bring Common Sense
to al1 your endeavours.
PLANNING
Planning is an obvious necessity when con-
sidering how many sources you need to mix,
how many monitor mixes are required, when
ping-pong and remix will happen, and which
tracks will be ping-ponged, etc. Track sheets are
handy sketch pads that will aid you in planning.
Although track sheets are designed with record-
ing in mind, they are very useful in sound
reinforcement. Successful setups can be notated
on track sheets for later reference.
Plan your work environment. If you are re-
cording, you will need
a
room that is quiet
and has sufficient electrical power. If there are
appliances or air conditioners plugged into the
same circuits as your mixer, they will probably
cause hum, clicks, or other noises when their
motors come on. More valuable tips regarding
the recording environment can be found in
TASCAM's "Multitrack Primer." If you're
mixing for live performance in a night club,
make sure the mixer isn't using the same circuit
line as the espresso machine and the blender.
Your mixer and al1 the stage equipment should
be using the same circuit line.
RECORDING
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