VOCALS 101

Gear essentials

Given that you’re reading this magazine, it’s safe to assume that you’ve got a computer and a DAW. So what else are you going to need to facilitate your vocal production endeavours? Let’s start with a run-down of the essentials.

Microphone

You can, in theory, record vocals using pretty much any microphone: from a Neumann U47 that costs more than your car, to the microphone built in to your computer. However, there are certain mics that are particularly well suited to vocal recording, and by and large, you’ll want to get your mitts on either a large diaphragm condenser mic or a dynamic mic.

Things to consider when shopping for microphones include the frequency response and polar pattern. A cardioid or hypercardioid pattern is usually best for vocal recordings, as it