Hello All:
It has been a while since I've posted here. I must say I'm a little dissapointed in myself for not frequenting these forums more often, but I'm here now, and I come looking for some answers.
First of all, please keep in mind that I am an amateur. I work very hard, but I don't have a lot of formal training in sound production and recording. My only knowledge of the subject comes from a few years of experimentation with a BOSS-864 digital 8-track. So, my methods may not be the most efficient, and my terminology may be a little bit off. Please bear with me. Here's my situation:
I've been working on an "album" since August, and I've been telling myself that I would finish it before graduation. Unfortunately, I've been working so hard on this album that I may get a time extension, if you know what I mean. Finance and music don't always mix well... But that's a another story. I'm finishing up everything, and I wanted to record live drums for all the songs I've been working on, and I need some general advice, so I can get the most out of what I have to work with.
1. I have only one (fairly decent) microphone, that I believe is more of an instrument microphone. In this case, is there a "better" place to put it? Above the drums? Directly in front of the drums? Is this just something I should do by feel, or is there some "trick" that will make the drums sound as good as they can with only one microphone? Should I cover the microphone with a cloth?
2. I'm not sure, but I think I've heard that it's better to record drums in a small (carpeted) room, as opposed to a large room. Is this the case?
3. Do drummers normally try to play with a metronome while they are recording? Does this help or hurt? I generally like synching everything up with a metronome, but I don't want it to turn out to rigid or robotic? (I have the main instrumental parts recorded and will be listening to them through headphones while I try to record the drums)
4. Can you overdub with drums? Or do you have to play a perfect take all the way through with no mistakes?
Not sure if any of that made sense. If not, any piece of advice on this subject would be greatly appreciated, even if it's not related to my questions... I may have some more questions later anyway.
Thanks to anyone who answers in advance, I really appreciate it.
Jack