Perhaps many of you are not familiar with the term "tracking" as it refers to the recording process. There are two generally accepted procedures used in recording studios. These are "full-band" recording and "tracking".

Tracking is a term used to describe the recording procedure whereby each sound (vocals/instrumention) resides on it's own separate track. This beings with a "scratch" track. This is usually done with the lead vocalist and the guitar player. This track is called a "scratch" track because it will not be used on the final recording.

Once each scratch track for the project has been recorded, each player/vocalist then comes in and records his/her parts along with the "scratch" track.

Will this is more time consuming, the client will always end up with a superior product than if recording as a "full-band". The mixdown process can take advantage of having each of the sounds (vocals and instruments) on separate, isolated tracks.

This means a couple fo things. First, each sound can be shaped optimally regarding both volume and tonality. Once the individual tracks are sweetened, then because each sound occupies it own track, the tracks can be “mixed-down” to a perfect blend.

Conclusions.

While "full-band" recording might be faster (and a little less expensive at larger facilities), it will invariably produce a much lower quality recording that individual "tracking". In addition, while it may appear that because you are paying a fairly moderate hourly rate to record using this method, the band MUST be completely rehearsed and ready to record when they walk in. Otherwise, the clock will be running and suddenly that low hourly rate becomes a nightmare. Also remember, one mistake will cause the entire song to need re-recording.

At Ancient Tone, we offer individual tracking (as described above) at "full-band" prices. You will find that over the entire project this is very competitive with the so-called "bargain" rates offered by others. And you will end up with a professional, commercial recorded project.

For a normal 12-song CD, we allocate a total of 16 hours for the tracking portion. This is usually spread over two days, normally a Saturday and Sunday but can be split up to meet your schedule. Then the mix-down and mastering is performed after the talent has finished recording. Each track will first be optimized for levels and tonal quality and then a significant amount of time will be spent mixing and mastering the project. We can usually have the finished product within 14 days after all recording is finished.

Remember, once it is recorded and burned to a master CD, any issues will be there forever. Using the "tracking" method at ATSP, there won't be any "issues" to haunt you!