How to Record and Playback Audio in Cakewalk Software

cakewalk_tips-sm1Recording your music on the computer is an adventure. There are thousands of different tools you can choose from, all with their own perks and obstacles. Recording your vocals, guitar, keys and drums is a process that takes time to learn in order to do it well.

Before you attempt to record, make sure you have all the equipment you need to connect your instrument of choice to the computer’s soundcard (such as cables, preamps, interfaces, speakers) as well as enable both for recording and playback. In this tutorial, learn how to use Cakewalk’s software to setup a track for recording and playback. Remember, pressing F1 while inside of the program will open the help guide.

Doing Heavenly Work With the V-Studio 100

Dale Ramsey - Great GatheringDale “Rambro” Ramsey is one of the most respected producers and engineers in the business.  His RamTrax Entertainment studio in Atlanta has worked on projects for some of the biggest names in music, from Justin Timberlake to Stevie Wonder to P. Diddy.  His client list reads like a Who’s Who of musical talent, and it keeps Dale hopping.

But sometimes he has a client with a somewhat ‘higher calling.’

Early this month, Dale traveled to Columbia, SC with his V-Studio 100 to record a major religious event called “The Great Gathering.”  For the first time in more than 45 years, the three major Methodist denominations within the African-American community met collectively, holding a three-day conference to discuss and address some of the major issues currently plaguing our nation.

From March 1-3, congregations from the African Methodist Episcopal (AME), African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AME Zion) and Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Churches met at the Carolina Coliseum with the goal of “Focusing on solutions. Change through the heart for the earth and humanity.”

“I was working in my studio with Dr. Greg McPherson, the music director for the opening day of the conference,” Dale explained, “and he mentioned a three-day event that might take place the following week up in Columbia.  He said he might be able to use my help in recording an orchestra on the first day.  I didn’t have a lot of details and it wasn’t set in stone at that point, but I said I’d help if he needed me.”

Continue reading “Doing Heavenly Work With the V-Studio 100”

Recording Music On A Laptop With the UA-4FX

UA4FXAsk any artist, they’ll likely tell you their best work comes when they least expect it. Inspiration knows no schedule. With the UA-4FX you are no longer tied down to the computer desk, forced to be creative while sitting at your home PC or Mac. This USB audio interface sources its power from your laptop and is small enough to fit inside a backpack, giving you the freedom to record your tracks on the go, wherever and whenever the mood hits you.

Fitted with a variety of I/O options, the UA-4FX makes it easy for you to plug in your microphone, electric guitar or instrument of choice, add the desired effect and start recording. You can also connect external synths, sound modules, and MIDI controllers to enjoy an ultra-fast, stable performance with FPT (Fast Processing Transmission) technology. As summarized by Gear-Vault’s Mike O’Cull:

“The UA-4FX is a worthy contender for anyone seeking an affordable and portable interface for laptop or desktop recording. If you are considering a unit like this, make sure it is on your short list.”

Get the artist’s perspective on the UA-4FX at Gear-Vault.com