How can I get that clear vocal Reverb like Elton John, Celine dion etc.
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Posted on Feb 21, 2005 09:50 am
Jayzeez
Member Since: Feb 21, 2005
How can I get that clear vocal Reverb without the ess's problem using software plug-ins?
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jmailjimmie neutronMember
Since: Feb 14, 2005
Feb 21, 2005 11:09 am Are you getting the reverb "sound" you want, but with the "esses"? If you are, the microphone choice is a factor (wind screen, yes?), proximity to the mic (stay back a bit), enunciation and angling (in other words, the "way" you sing/say the words, and if your putting the wind directly into the mic diaphragm) all have a bearing before the fact. Once an "ess" is recorded, it's there. You're probably emphasizing the "esses" with the reverb settings. Most compressors have a "de-esser" setting. You could try that, or use selective EQ cutting (para-graphic) where the "ess" is, or both.
You need a clean, clear vocal first. If you record the track dry, "clean" it up with "de-essing" if necessary, EQ, then add your reverb; that might work. Anything done after the reverb messes with the reverb "tails" (the echo). btw, this is no expert answering here, just an experimenter like most of the others.
cooloFrisco's Most UnderratedMember
Since: Jan 28, 2003
Feb 21, 2005 12:51 pm Definitely use eq! You can do it either before or after reverb. Each will give you a different sound, but it will help get rid of those esses. You can even eq before AND after reverb.
Feb 21, 2005 01:26 pm Thanks for info. I never thought of de-essing before adding verbage! I will try this. I dont have de-esser on my compressor. I happen to have a very distinct ess sound with my vocals. I love the reverb we here on the pros songs, it is so clear as if there are no effects added!
Feb 21, 2005 02:15 pm don't forget to put your reverb on a seperate track then the dry vocals, then you can eq just the reverb
peace
wyd
Feb 22, 2005 09:20 am you want it to sound like elton john?
step 1: invest in a neuman u87
step 2: aquire a neve or api preamp
step 3: run that thru your true tubes compressor
step 4: use a gml paremetric EQ for de-essing thru your sidechain
step 5: dial in the reverb you want from you eventide effects box
step 6: as that guy ^^ said run the reverb on a second channel x 2 have one with a longer decay than the other and have it lower than the shorter one it will smooth out the reverb if you do it right.
or you could run it thru your chinese mic and a behringer and keep your fingers crossed.
Feb 22, 2005 09:21 am Step 7: Achive a vocal range of about 4 octaves.
Feb 22, 2005 09:40 am josh hates you, I dont have that kind of cash on hand. I know the quality of electronics is crucial, however there must be a way to come close, after all its only home recording. By the way, I have heard Elton on tv (without the studio), and I cant believe the difference in quality, basically it was not very good!
Feb 22, 2005 09:41 am yeah performance is key to any recording.
ps. none of us have that cash. read my reveiw of my first "nice" outboard preamp in the gear gab section.
Feb 22, 2005 09:56 am eh, I dunno, I have heard Elton John live and regardless of the electronics involved, the dude had an amazing voice back in the day. Today, he is getting older and the range isn't quite what it was, but still, he is one of the best singer/songwriters in pop music. Of course, he'll be the first to tell ya too...
Feb 23, 2005 10:14 am Yes, Elton truly is an amazing talent, even sitting at the piano. My whole point is that all the hits by these superstars original studio recordings have this reverb when appropriate. Bands like ELO, Queen, REO etc. have this going on.
Back to topic.....I have messed around with the ideas given here with some very good success! Maybe one day I can have the great expensive verb system to sound like the big boys.
I must add that since the PC digital recording I have had much better home recordings. The ability to record 20 or more tracks, effects etc. low noise saving projects on CD's has really opened a whole new world for us that do not have $100 an hour for a studio.
Thanks for replys
drakeMember
Since: Apr 13, 2004
Feb 24, 2005 01:48 am but it's also closing the world to those who are trying to make a profession in the recording industry...
cooloFrisco's Most UnderratedMember
Since: Jan 28, 2003
Feb 24, 2005 10:57 am yeah, and dinosaurs became extinct too. And so did sabre tooth tigers. People gotta adapt or become extinct. That's life.
In all honesty, it's about the music more than the recording.
