As we get closer to entering the world of recording, it is going to be essential that you are using the right tools for the job.  So we are going to smart off learning about some of the microphones in the locker with the instrument that everyone has access to:  your voice.

There are obvious implications depending on what you use.  Part of this project will include research on what microphones you are using to look at their frequency response and how that best interacts with your voice.  You will follow that with the post production side of recording by finding a sweet spot for your voice through a combination of different effects.  Creating this editing chain will speed up your editing process down the line and will (almost) guarantee that you will get similar results in recording your voice every time once you find a sound you like.

Assignment:

Find a microphone that best suits your voice and build an effect chain for easier post-production.

Procedure:

1. Open a new Logic file

2. Save your project as SP2 - LASTNAME (using your last name)

3. Create 3 new audio tracks and name these after the three microphones you'll be testing:

   • Shure SM58

   • Shure SM7B

   • Electro-Voice RE20

     1. • These mics can all be found in the cabinet.

4. Create a short script (5 sentences max) that you will replicate for each microphone you are using

5. Research the frequency response of each microphone before you record, and the needs of each microphone when you record

6. Record each microphone in multiple ways:

   • Once without the in-line pre-amp

   • Once with the in-line pre-amp

     1. • Each of these mics is a dynamic mic, meaning there is no need for 48v or "phantom power." However, we have a small in-line preamp that can be used to make it work similar to a condensor mic. 

7. As you change microphones, adjustments may need to be made with respect to your gain staging (how loud the gain knob is turned up on the interface).

8. Listen to each of your six recordings and find the one you like the most

9. Begin to make common-sense production edits to your voice on that specific track

   • e.g. clipping out dead space

10. Save your production chain

    • On your Channel Strip, find the Settings bar

    • Click on Settings > Save Channel Strip Setting As…

    • You will be able to retrieve that setting in future projects in the same location 

      1. • I would also back this up to a google folder juuuuuust in case...

11. Save your project and submit to Google Drive submission folder

PROJECT MASTERY GUIDELINES:

For this project to be considered complete and receive full credit, it must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Six recordings present, two for each of three microphones

• Be able to discuss why you chose your preference for microphones based on researched information

• Show your saved vocal chain as a preset in Logic