How To Edit Audio Recordings For Your Song

Editing audio recordings is a critical part of the production process. Even when a piece of music is recorded in a professional studio, it often requires significant editing to achieve the desired sound quality.

This blog will address the various imperfections that can occur during audio recording. It will also discuss how to edit your voice in a song and the tools and techniques required to rectify them.

The Tools

While effects such as compressors and equalizers are often used for general sound optimization purposes, specialized audio editing tools are available for extensive audio repairs. Many of these tools are identified by the "De" prefix, such as the De-Esser and De-Breath plug-ins.

These effects work by intervening in the frequency spectrum, removing background noise, or limiting certain levels based on time and impulse. Some algorithms can even achieve impressive noise suppression results by replicating the frequency spectrum.

Noise - A Multifaceted Problem

There are two types of noise: background noise (thermal noise) and acoustic noise caused by airflow. Background noise is caused by active electronics and is present in every recording, but it is usually too quiet to be detected.

Acoustic noise is usually louder and can be prevented by closing doors, switching off air conditioning systems and fans, and using specialized plug-ins to remove or reduce the noise. However, if the type of noise is more complex or erratic, a more complex algorithm that uses a target signal to subtract the noise dynamically is required.

Ambient Noise From Artists and Instruments

Artists and instruments can produce ambient noise that is difficult to correct. For singers, disturbing background noise may be their breathing or lips smacking together. For instrumentalists, there is the "humming" of a guitar amplifier or the creaking of a drum shell at a particular frequency to consider.

These imperfections cannot be calculated and filtered out by effects. The most effective approach in these cases is to cut them out manually. The audio material is cut at the relevant point, which can harm the corresponding track. To conceal the sound, mix in another take or add a subtle reverb effect if the sound fades.

Cutting Various Takes

Overdubbing is a popular technique that involves laying various recordings on top of each other to produce a fully-fledged sound profile. This process involves recording several takes, which can be used not only for filling and concealing purposes but also to replace whole song sections.

Vocal recordings can be cut easily during breaks or when the singer takes a breath, but drum or guitar recordings present a bigger challenge. Transitions and beats must be kept fluid and neat to ensure the cut does not attract attention. Crossfades reduce the volume of the two audio tracks and crossfade them, ensuring the cut is hardly noticeable.

The Importance Of A Good Microphone

Before diving into the editing process, the importance of using a good-quality microphone is worth mentioning. A high-quality microphone can significantly reduce the editing required and capture the nuances of the artist's performance more accurately. Two great options for professional-grade microphones are the Beyerdynamic M 90 PRO X and the M 70 PRO X

The M 90 PRO X is one of the best condenser microphones available. They are ideal for recording vocals and instruments. Its super-cardioid polar pattern reduces ambient noise and ensures a clean, focused sound.

On the other hand, the M 70 PRO X is one of the best dynamic microphones available. They are perfect for podcasting and broadcasting. Its cardioid polar pattern provides excellent voice isolation, ensuring clear and detailed sound.

Conclusion

Editing audio recordings for your song can be time-consuming, but it is essential for creating a polished final product. Using the right tools and techniques, you can remove unwanted noise, clean up tracks, and create a smooth, polished final product.

beyerdynamic is one of the world's most renowned headphone brands you can count on. With a nearly 100-year history of producing high-quality audio equipment, Beyerdynamic microphones offer excellent sound quality, durability, and versatility for recording your music.