Need Help With Mixer Settings

[originalalimony]

Hi, Guys.I was wondering if any of you could give me some advice on how to set up my mixer? I have this cheap one, with a few dials/knobs, and every time I record something It sounds like Crap. (Vocals)I always end up having to try and tune the recordings on my music production software in an attempt not to sound like a hollow robotic freak. But even when I do that, I’m really just moving things around till they sound like me in real-life. It’s tiring honestly. I keep most of the dials flat, but there are some dials that confuse me. It’s a crappier version of this one here.http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5 ... .jpgPlease Help.Al

[mazz]

Hi Al,That kind of looks like a Behringer mixer to me. I'm wondering if you can give more information about how you have your mixer wired to your computer, what kind of mic you use and what knobs you have and how you have them set. A snippet of what you are deeming crappy sounding vocals would help to set a baseline to start a more helpful conversation. An mp3 is worth a thousand words.There's not necessarily any magic settings but there are basic concepts for setting up your gains, EQs, etc. You may be missing a small thing that would help clean up things immediately.More info will make it easier to try to help you.Take care,Mazz

[ibanez468]

I think it's an Alesis mixer John. At least that's what it looks like it says on the side. Exactly which dials are confusing you? Each dial serves a major purpose, and not knowing what they do can keep you from bringing out your mix to it's fullest potential. Here's a link to check out regarding mixing.http://www.bluebearsound.com/articles/mixing101.htmOf course mixing isn't something you learn overnite. It takes practice & alot of years to really get decent at it. And good equipment helps a great deal too. But regardless of what kind of equipment you're using, knowing what does what & why it does what it does, is the most important thing. And practice is essential to mixing as it is with anything. You know how it is...no pain, no gain. HTHI-468

[gatorjj]

Let's start back closer to the source...what kind of mic are you using? Are you using the mic pre in the mixer or one outboard?

[vodkadoll]

The Alesis mixer is ok, with good mic pre amps, like what Gatorjj says, what mic are you using, Rode do some good condensers for about 250 euros. I suggest using a good mic will help loads, my Rode NT1-A can capture some great breathy vocals and is crystal clear (for the money) DSo you use a computer set up for recording, as a boost in eq at 12,000kz and a little cut at 250 hz can make the world of difference using a DAW