Sgt. P digital techniques Flashcards
How did 4-track tape machines work?
- Record 3 parts onto track 1, usually the rhythm section.
- Bounce these onto track 4, perhaps together with a live vocal track.
- This leaves 4 parts on track 4, and track 1 is free again to record new parts.
- This process is repeated until you’ve run out of parts.
What was the limitation of using 4-track machines?
Once the recordings had been finished, there were limits as to how the parts could be mixed. Record producers had to ensure that everything was recorded at the right level.
What brand of 4-track machine did the Beatles use?
A Revox tape machine.
What is a direct input transformer (DIT)?
Now known as DI, this was a ‘transformer’ that allowed electric instruments to be recorded directly into the equipment, rather than through a microphone.
How was DIT used on Sgt. Pepper?
Used to record most of McCartney’s basslines on Sgt. Pepper, which gave them crispness and clarity.
What is reduction mixing/ping-ponging/bouncing?
Dubbing multiple parts to just one or two tracks, allowing more room for additional overdubbing.
What is panning?
Where sound is alternated between 2 speakers, creating an antiphonal texture.
What is close-miking?
A microphone is placed close to an instrument, producing a dry sound, often with more bass. It also separates the individual sounds.
How was close-miking used on Sgt. Pepper?
Used extensively on Ringo’s drums throughout the album.
What is varispeeding?
Music is recorded with the tape machine slowed down or sped up. When the track is mixed, it’s played back at the standard speed of 50 cycles, and the timbre of the voice/instrument is altered.
What is double tracking?
A technique that produced a richer and fuller timbre by simultaneously playing back two separate recordings of the same section.
What is automatic double tracking (ADT)?
This used tape delay, creating a double tracking effect without having to record several times.
When was ADT invented?
1966.
How did the album use ADT on Lennon’s vocals?
Lennon electronically enhanced the thin timbre of his voice by using double tracking. This produced a richer and fuller timbre by simultaneously playing back two separate recordings of the same section.
How did the Beatles use sampling in this album?
Mainly for the crowd-cheering, e.g. transition into WALH, or at the end of WY, WY.
