When recording on your computer, you're going to want to add reverb, delay, EQ, etc. to your tracks. However, doing all of this on your computer can get taxing. Especially, if you have twenty or more tracks.

I suggest using as much outboard gear as possible. This will free up resources on your computer. It really sucks when you want to add a few more tracks, but you can't cuz your resources are maxed out.  read more »

When I record using effects, there's no particular order for the chain, but some things do work better than others. It all depends which effects I'm using.  read more »

Source Audio LLC, a new technology enterprise founded by former executives of Analog Devices, Inc. have introducted Hot Hand, a new guitar effect that translates body movement into sound. It uses a motion controller which fits onto your finger and gives you more control over your guitar playing.  read more »

Digidesign has just announced a new addition to their DigiRack plugins called Dynamics III. The new plugins are completely free and include a Compressor/Limiter, Expander/Gate, and De-Esser. Dynamics III requires a Digidesign-qualified Pro Tools system running Pro Tools 6.7 or higher software.

From Digidesign:  read more »

A plugin is like a software version of a rackmount effect processor.  A plugin is a software effect processor that can be accessed by your software in it's effect loops.

There are many different types of software plugins, Direct X, VST, RTAS, AudioSuite, etc. Some types will only work with certain pieces of software. For instance, you want to make sure your software will support VST before spending money on VST plugins.  read more »

Drumagog is a plugin that automatically replaces drum tracks with a variety of samples. You can use Drumagog to fix or enhance your drum tracks.

Drumagog works with any Direct-X compatible audio editing program (like Nuendo, Sonar, n-Track Studio, Cubase, Cool Edit, Sound Forge, etc). Drumagog is also available for Pro Tools.  read more »

FMR Audio Really Nice Compressor (RNC) should be your next compressor. I belong to quite a few music and recording discussion boards. When it was time to find a compressor for my home studio, I did like I usually do. I consult these discussion boards to see what people are recommending. Everyone said, hands down, the FMR Audio RNC (Really Nice Compressor).  read more »

If you play guitar, you should get an Ebow. It has changed my recordings dramatically. The Ebow is a hand-held magnetic bow for the guitar. You can use the Ebow to mimic strings, horns, and woodwinds with unbelievable sensitivity. The Ebow produces a powerful infinite sustain, with rich in harmonics for awesome guitar sounds.

The Ebow comes with an instruction book, and a cassette. Hopefully, they've upgraded the cassette to a CD? But it teaches you everything. The Ebow is really easy to learn and it's incredible fun.  read more »

Digitech has a really cool product called the JamMan. The Digitech JamMan is a looper/phrase sampler.

"A looper?

A looper, you know, a caddy, a looper, a jock. So, I tell them I'm a pro jock, and who do you think they give me? The Dalai Lama, himself. "

Not like a "looper" from Caddyshack. But a sampler that will loop your samples and gives you something to jam along to. The Digitech JamMan looks very cool. But the sticker price of $299 seems a little steep.  read more »

The Digitech RP100a is an awesome little effects unit for the price.

When I was working as a recording studio intern, I learned one valuable lesson...that Digitech made kick *ss guitar processors. He had a big rack-mounted purple unit that had everything. I don't remember the model or what it was called, matter of fact it's probably been discontinued. But I do remember it bringing the rock.  read more »