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Tracking a Band Cheat Sheet

Bass, drums, and vocals

Prepare and Track

Before Tracking

  • Tune and check instruments
  • Label channels
  • Create click and scratch guide

Tracking Order

  • Drums first
  • Bass second
  • Vocals after rhythm foundation

Mic & Setup

  • Use proper mic distance
  • Monitor bleed
  • Record room when useful

Gain Staging Quick Guide

MetricRecommended
Peaks-12 to -6 dBFS
RMS-18 to -12 dBFS
AvoidAny clipping or over-hot stems

After Tracking

  • Listen through all takes
  • Comp clean edits
  • Save and label sessions clearly
  • Back up raw audio before mixing