Ideal setup for recording with a Firepod?

Posted on

Member Since: Aug 29, 2007

So I just bought a Firepod, my first recording related purchase, and I'm wondering what to invest in to make the best of my purchase. The pod's main application will be the recording of drums, and I'm very interested in learning about compression.

Now, should I buy a mixing console, or rack mixer of some kind, or just plug the mics straight into the pod? The problem with the pod is there are only 2 sets of send and returns, and as I understand it, the regular Line Outs all send out the main mix (please correct me if I'm wrong.) I use 4 mics on the drum at the minimum, so this means I could only apply compression or any other hardware effects to Inputs 1 and 2. Is it worth it to go for a mixer just for this?

And about this, will I ever apply effects to more than 2 mics at once? All the compressors I've seen within my budget had a max of 2 channels anyways. Do most people only compress 2 channels of the drum anyways? Or do you simply buy more compressors?

Anyways, any help would be appreciated regarding this, or the structure of amateur digital recording in general.

[ Back to Top ]


Hold 'Em Czar
Member
Since: Dec 30, 2004


Aug 31, 2007 05:40 am

F effects, record your 'raw' tracks dry and apply the effects afterwards.....

up with hope, down with dope!

I am PuN-Chi, No really...
Member
Since: Jul 20, 2007


Aug 31, 2007 09:36 pm

Hey awesome, I just bought a firepod today as well! First off, no you dont need to buy more outboard compressors. Your D.A.W. (recording program) has compressors in there... You can just use those...

And yes, just plug the mics straight into the pod...

So do this.

Plug the mics into the pod, Assign each mic. to a track in your recording program, and turn up the gain on each mic as needed...

Record your parts...

ANd then go back and add effects (compression and EQ)to each track...

Member
Since: Aug 29, 2007


Sep 01, 2007 11:25 pm

Well see, the thing is I was interested specifically in hardware, pre-tape compression. I know about a bunch of VST's I could get for reverb and comp and whatnot. How big is the difference between software and hardware compression?

Czar of Midi
Administrator
Since: Apr 04, 2002


Sep 02, 2007 09:31 pm

It really depends on how critical you want to be. Out board compression is really good when it comes to vocals going in. It can help on drums but is not a huge benifit to compress drums before hitting the tape/digital track. I usually record all drums without compression and then compress in the mix if needed. Most drummers I have been around are very good and their dynamics are pretty spot on so there is usually no need to compress.

But yes, vocals it can really help with a shy vocalist or one who does not have good control over their own volume. A good compressor limiter will really help there before it hits the tape/digital track.

But it is not an absolute must have if you are not looking to spend the extra cash. But even in the lower budget end there are some killer compressors that work very well for that.

Member
Since: Nov 29, 2007


Nov 29, 2007 02:05 am

Deleted By dB Masters

Related Forum Topics:



If you would like to participate in the forum discussions, feel free to register for your free membership.