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Guide to Multi Track Recorders

Multi Track Recorder : What is it?

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A multi-track recorder is an electronic device designed for separating the recording of multiple sound sources to create a cohesive whole. It is the most common device used for recording popular music today, whether in professional or home recording studios. The simplest multi-track recorder has a number of track inputs (starting at 4-track) and a single line output connected to mono or stereo. It can play simultaneous tracks at one time. Depending on the type, it can record the output on tape, in a hard drive, or a memory card. The duration of music that can be recorder depends on the memory or capacity of the audio storage device. A multi-track recorder also has simple mixing capabilities for stereo such as controlling levels, panning sounds left or right, and adding external or internal effects.

When using a multi-track recorder, the user can select which track will be used for each instrument. A recorded track can be played back while recording another track to accompany the performer. The first to be recorded is usually the drums part because it lays down the beat of the song. The vocal track is usually the last one to be recorded.

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Types Of Multi Track Recorders

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Kinds of Multi Track Recorders include the following:

Analog multi-track recorder

An analog multi-track recorder receives and sends out analog signals. It does not convert signals to digital. Its internal effects are limited. It is usually a tape-based equipment that relies on tape storage.   

Digital multi-track recorder


A digital multi-track recorder is a standalone device that receives analog inputs and converts it to digital signals. It usually has a hard disk or memory card for storing audio outputs and tracks. It allows various internal effects such as delay, reverb, phaser, and chorus. It has mixing, synthesizing, and sequencing capabilities. It can be hooked up to a computer, allowing the digital file to be transferred to and manipulated on a computer software, shared over the Internet, or burned to a CD or DVD.    

Multi-track recorder computer software

A  multi-track computer software is a computer program with all the capabilities of a digital multi-track recorder. It can record an unlimited number of tracks. However, it is limited to the memory of the computer, the sound card, and digital/analog inputs of the computer. It can use plug-ins to get an infinite number of effects and layers. 

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Choosing Multi Track Recorders (Buying Tips)

Number of tracks: For home recording, choose a multi-track recorder that can record 16 tracks. It is enough for providing adequate layers to get a full sound.   

Transferability: Choose a multi-track recorder that allows you to transfer individual tracks or outputs to computers and other recording and playing devices. It should have the necessary ports for USB or FireWire connectivity. 

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Sources

Tweakheadz
Wikipedia

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What Is It?
Types Of Multi Track Recorders
Choosing Multi Track Recorders (Buying Tips)
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