The greatest thing about going digital for me was the fact that I can cut and paste sections and I could automate my faders. Two very simple things that completely changed the way my recordings sounded.

Back in the day, I used an old Tascam 4 track. It was good for what I was doing. I loved it. It wasn't until I started using my PC with n-Track and Pro Tools that I really discovered how much more flexible digital recording was.

I could record takes hundreds of times if I needed to. No more tape warping. So now I can get the exact take I want without having to settle because my tape is getting worn out.

Cutting and pasting was huge for me. I could now clean up unwanted noises easily. If I had a track that had a beginning that was great and the ending was rough. Voila, cut and paste to the rescue. Not to mention, punch ins are so much easier now.

Going digital also allows me to automate my faders. With Pro Tools, the software will remember when I boosted the guitar, when I dropped the keyboards down, etc. Making everything a breeze when I mix down or bounce to disk. Before with my Tascam I had to have a notebook to let me know to boost the guitar at 1:15 and drop the keyboards at 2:37. And if you missed it, try again. Mixing was a chore.

If you are still using a 4 track, I highly recomend spending a little money and getting a PC and going digital. You'd be surprised that you can get a great setup for about the same price you spent on your 4 track. With results that will blow your 4 track out of the water.

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