The Audio Recording Signal Chain : Sound Sources

sounds Over the next few articles, we'll be discussing "The Signal Chain", audio engineer speak for the steps that a sound takes during the recording process.

The decisive factor for judging the sound quality of an audio production is subjective and influenced by current trends.

Having said that, knowing and optimizing the signal chain in your recording studio will ensure the best possible sound with the equipment readily available to you. It is important for you to understand what each component in the signal chain requires to perform at its optimum state, and that's precisely what this series aims to teach you.

Let's dive in...

First, let's look at the three types of sound sources.

Acoustic Sources

horns Most commonly, the signal chain starts with an acoustic source. During music recording sessions, this source could be an instrument such as an acoustic guitar, bass, drums, piano, violin, harp and so on. The human voice is also considered an acoustic source, and since this website is all about voice overs, we'll be using the voice as the starting point in the signal chain.

Electric Sources

synthesizers These sources have audio outputs that can be plugged directly into a pre amplifier or recording device. Examples include a bass guitar amplifier, electric keyboard, synthesizer, drum machine etc...

Digital Sources

The third and final source is what I call digital sources. These sounds are computer based such as software used to produce sounds or sound effects that are pre-recorded. Some examples include Reason, Fruity Loops and Apple even has Jam Packs available for sale.

Summary

voice talent Now that you have an overview of the three sources of sound, we'll be moving forward in the series of tutorials with a focus on the recording of voice-overs.