For those who cannot get the meter in 2021. Options > Layouts > Track Panel > 150c (or any other) Like if you did it so people can see.. Been struggling with it for 1h.
It's worth mentioning that the reason you don't want to go over -12dbfs is typically because the preamps in the interface may begin to display signs of overload above that. That's going to depend on the interface, so read your manuals. If you don't find that info, test the preamps and see where you begin to see things changing on an analyzer. Take note of where that begins, and stay below that. For me, I stay at -12dbfs for my max peak because my Presonus Firestudio Project begins showing signs of overload at -10dbfs. That gets me the highest signal I can get before overload begins, which gives me a healthy signal-to-noise ratio at the analog input. Low noise floor, no overloading. There's no set level in digital. -18dbfs is a good place to stay, but most of the tutorials fail to mention the possibility of overload above -10dbfs and the healthy signal to noise ratio. That's the reason we're staying in the range we are, and that's what makes a signal healthy.
The big meter!!!! I have done a heap of tutorials and reading manuals and jot found this option. It has driven me mad for a year or two, no more thanks!,
Hi. How can I setup the different colors in the big meter like in this video? In my layout I don’t get the colors changing as the signal level goes up like you have here. Can you help?
I would also argue that the comments about outboard gear could be clarified. The presenter is talking about during tracking, not during mixing. That should be assumed, since we're talking about recording levels, but people could still be confused.
This was VERY helpful to me. I tend to record a bit "hot", but focusing on keeping the signal between -18 and -12 seems to prevent digital clipping from happening. I bit more headroom is better, rather than getting the hottest possible signal coming in.
I only just found out about the -18dB thing. I have been trying to record my signals as hot as possible, like you would with analog tape. D'oh! Kudos to (1) ReaperTV, (2) the Roland Quad Capture :)
You Explain things very well, And Big thank you for all your time, I am new to Reaper but I think it will do the job, Been using cubase for 10 years , Just need to get my head round it, , Hope you keep the videos going, Thank you,
Signal to noise ratio is a good thing to keep your eyes (ears) on. These days , though, with most recording interfaces offering up 24 bit depth rather than the old 16 bit standard, one can keep there tracking levels well below -10 dbfs without suffering signal to noise problems. What I find most important... pre-amp distortion (colour to some), which can be awful when it comes to cheaper pre-amps! If you have premium quality pre-amps and precisely clocked converters, you can record at any level desired (so-long as you don't hit 0 dbfs), then use the gainer handles in reaper to prepare the audio (average RMS level between -21 to -18 dbfs) for mixing. That's when one would start using them Waves or Slate variants of vintage analogue gear which are usually modelled to react to signals, and supply a headroom of 18 to 21 db before distortion, just like the real deal. Hence, a good reason to make sure your gain staging (somewhere along the line) is correct before plowing on the plugins... also, awesome for the master-bus. Kinda reminds me of the days when I had to gain-stage mixing console for tape playback.
@@misled_perceptions in the reaper stash, you can google reaper stash and once inside use de search bar but if you never done this may result confusing as a lot of results would appear, so better yet I recommend googling Default Commala 5 and the first result is a reaper forum threat from the creators of said theme, with direct links to both the light and dark version (dark is more updated, is the one seen here in this video). Also our dear friend Reaper TV has a tutorial on this if I remember correctly
noone ever told me that! thank you! are you the programmer(s) of reaper too? im confused. reaper is such a nice tool to use, im still evaluation, started it about 20 times and for a total of 2 hours, having recorded.. well actually nothing at all.
I don't know what I'd do without this channel. Question: You record your guitars dry/direct, but I always record my distorted guitars WITH distortion + amp sims (but no other effects) via my Axe-Fx II. Would the same rule apply to distorted guitars as with dry/direct guitars? Should I still aim for -18 to -12?
Guitar Answer Guy Definitely. Aiming for this type of level on input is the key to plenty of head room for mixing and mastering once you have all your audio recorded.
Hi Paul, I just wanted to add a note to your tutorial. In the pursuit of better guitar tones I discovered that setting the interface level as they describe by using the peak indicator then backing off a little provides the best tone for re-amping. However this is usually too hot for Reaper and too hot for amplifier vsts inside of Reaper. The answer is to use input FX to reduce the level into Reaper whilst maximising the optimum D to A conversion on your sound card. Try it and see if you hear how much fuller your DI guitar tracks become. Keep up the good work, great tutorials, Gary
Nice tip Gary, I'll definitely check it out and see how it compares. Going too low on your interface can definitely sap a little life and energy out of your tone.
This seems like it will help the problem I've been having, with thin tones due to a low input volume on my audio interface (Scarlett Solo). Can you clarify, do you mean to use the guitar VST on the input FX to control recording volume? Or a different effect on the input FX to control recording volume?
thanks for the great video!! it's recommend to record with interface gain turned up to close to clipping and then back it off a little. I have a focusrite 2i2 and it sounds really good with gain level set in the green/yellow area. but on my Reaper meter it shows that the signal is hot, just below zero -0.5(sounds good) I've recorded the same guitar on the same day keeping it around -18 with the Peaks just below -12 and it seems thin and a little harsh (focusrite never hits yellow Always Green). confused, it seems like a contradictory to keep the interface green/yellow to get a good signal but yet it's too hot for the mixing. what am I missing,which meter should I rely on.
Useful info.. -18db all the way :-) Do you have any info on how I can set-up those buttons (top left in DAW) in Reaper? I think you use them for instant colouring of tracks... EDIT: I found the answer in your '5 Power Tips for Reaper DAW - Boost Your Productivity' video. Thank you.
Thank you for all the great videos! Beginner question - I'm running through a Scarlett Solo and using Amplitube 4 in Reaper. When I set the knob on the Scarlett to hit around -18db in Reaper, my guitar tone gets very thin when using Amplitube plugins. The problem is somewhat alleviated by increasing the input volume in Amplitube, but is there something else I can do to avoid losing tone at a low input volume?
I'm running through a Scarlett Solo and using Bias Fx in Reaper. When I set the Scarlett guitar output to hit around -18db in Reaper, my guitar signal is very thin as it has a very weak output into reaper. How do I reach the -18db mark without losing signal strength?
These rules apply to digital recordings of analog sources. In your case you'd set your interface as hot as possible before clipping your pre-amp during the performance. Here's a good video that can get you started ruclips.net/video/acfq8kRTqJE/видео.html
A question Is there a setting that can somehow limit the recording volume input..hard to explain but for example no matter how hard i strum my guitar it will limit the recording to only -18 db? Thanks in advance
I've been told that plugging an active guitar into my audio device can damage the audio device. I find that a bit odd. If the signal from an active guitar was harmful, there would be broken amps everywhere.
I have this problem. My input from digitech processor is too low... and I need to use VST, like amplitube. When I use FX then its ok, but I dont have processor effects then.
I wonder: what is the necessity of doing things quickly? Isn’t it better to do things well? People are too worried about easy and quicker rather than doing excellent recordings.
I absolutely love the meter setup (at about 4:38) but can't work out how to do it in a later edition of Reaper - 6.46 on a Mac. Any help would be really appreciated.
Hello, so my guitar input should be as low as -18db? Even at minimum input gain in the hi-z channel on my UAD apollo, I'm coming out at about -9 with the loudest parts of palm mutes on electric guitar, with no fx active. The pickups aren't even actives, think they rate about 13.5 ohms. Not sure what I can do then, guess I'll need to buy a di box with -20db or something?
I use an external Solid State preamp for every type of instrument\vocal, and when this preamp shows 0 as the loudest I iknow that my signal is Ok, cause it`s calibrated to -18 db RMS
Great video. An advice needed ! :) What is the right way to record (voice, guitars, bass) 1) with effects on 2) without any effects (they are supposed to be added later). Thank you
Personally I would keep any FX until after I had a good quality DI signal to work with unless it was something like a hardware compressor, etc. You can always re-amp a DI signal to add FX but you can't remove them from the DI if they are there at the input stage and you want to change something later down the line.
The problem with tips like this that confuses people is you don't go into detail on which of the dozens of input/gain levels to adjust. Gain staging is confusing and I still don't know which of any of the hundred gain settings to adjust first. On the interface or the Amp or the plugin or even the volume knob on the guitar. There has to be a correct process, but most guides I see just say "Aim for - 18db" and that's it. Except - 18db can either sound like shit or great depending on your millions of knob settings. Fuck it. I'll just play Black Metal so none of this matters.
Can't u just record a few vocals without watching the meters, then go back and listen and see where it is on the meters, and adjust ur audio Input gain knob from there?
As someone who wanted to record himself, I gave up. And I made an album with a band as a teen on a 16 track yamaha workstation. I can't play and adjust shit on my AI simultaneously. I use to enjoy playing through and entire part of a song and havung the levels work, need a second person for this? Or is there new tech that will lower and raise so it does clip but is saturated enough? It's not at all enjoyable doing this all by myself.
Very useful tutorial! I have one question: I have a focusrite 2i4 2nd gen (with -10db pad switch) and my setup is pretty basic. I enter into my audio interface and then into reaper. I keep the audio interface knob at minimum + the 10db reduction switch engaged and i manage to get around -18 db (with peaks at -14db). I then use Bias as Vst for tones. The problem is that when I'm tracking, the gain stays at around -18db, while when I play back what I have recorded is way higher (-5 db)!! I'm probably doing something wrong.. as far as I understand the gain should be the same, both in recording phase and in playback.. I'm lost.. thank you in advance.
hi there. i have latency issues using it on reaper. how do i do feedback loop on this umc device? i am trying to sort the offset setting to have no latency when recording.
I set the levels before recording my guitar (2i2>>>Reaper) but when I play back the recording the levels are much higher. I’m NOT using direct monitoring (2i2) and record monitoring is on (Reaper). I am using FX (plug-ins) and I can lower the output of that but I can’t see what the playback level will be before (or while) recording. This is driving me nuts!
Thank you for all the vids - will pledge. This said, I don't have all of the same track layouts that you have. I've been dying to get something like that. Where do I get all those track layouts ? Thanks for your help
why does a simplistic program like Audacity give you the freedom to adjust input level from within the program and with a fully-fledged DAW like Reaper you have to do it through the audio interface? What if someone doesn't have an interface and just plugs-in an instrument in line-in?
Well explained video But... the problem comes when one starts adding multiple fx in the master channel that have volume being added including the sonarworks reference which has to be last in order. Which volume are we to set things up to?
Hello, congratulations on the tutorial. One question, Do you have a tutorial on how to normalize recorded or unrecorded audio at -4 in peak, for example? Sorry for the translator use writing. Thank you very much. Célio Brasil.
im using Blackstar Amp usb connection to record directly from my AMP to computer using reaper....but when im using heavy distorted gainy present my recording level always clips with red signal ! how can i bring it to -18 db without losing the tone?
I'm using Reaper v5.50c and in the track layout options there isn't a 'Big Meter' option. The option available are very different to what is shown on your screen. Is the big meter no longer an option?
What about when recording DI guitars and you need a good signal to noise ratio? I’ve been taught to set my interface just before it peaks and then gain stage it later.
Hi there Paul! Hope all is well! Paul I could't find the stock TRIM plug-in. Is it there under a different name? I was informed that this is one of the most essential plug-in required to produce radio ready music. Thanks again, Ty
another TAKE HOME as always... thanks!!! one question.. how could you set those icons in a single horizontal ilne? generally, they always tend to be in Double line, occupying precious space.. how to shift them as seen at 1:34 in this video? I would rather prefer to simply Erase them from their default place, but I am unable to do that as well... thanks in advance
You can expand the Track Control Panel (TCP) to allow more room for the toolbar or Right Click the toolbar and choose Position Toolbar > At top of Main Window.
please help. my db level for my accoustic guitar is under -24. i have the gain maxed out and the volume maxed out on my guitar. what else can i do to make the level between -12 and -18? i have the guitar plugged in to my ux2 instrument input.
I have a guitar with passive pickups and a Focusrite Solo 2nd Gen. With the interface gain nob at the zero and the pickups physically lowered to the lowest they can go, I'm still getting peaks up to -10 and I'm getting some very unpleasant noise that comes with this overload. Has anyone had to deal with something like that?
Hi love reaper tv tutorials, watched this one over a few times, I use the focusrite scarlet 2i4 interface, one issue I encounter quite often and I need to find out why is it my gain knob is practically at 0 and still the reaper meter shoots up into red, can you please explain why this is happening when trying to record vocal using my Neat King Bee mic and using my rode nt1 a I can go to about 9-o-clock, thanks
Hey there quick question is question for those who are in the know. I've been doing karaoke tracks from RUclips with reaper and a PC recording like manner. I have an XLR to USB converter in my laptop the question is what level what I said the PC settings to in terms of recording I normally sit around the 40% mark which mark would you suggest. Trudy looking forward to reply, because most channels that I asked the question on or play this what I call rap crap it doesn't even equate to singing is just talking with using plug-ins to make sound better. I have invested in a course from per Bristow, to improve my singing. Now however looking at getting the mix right. I have a number of isotope plug-ins such as neutron nectar. The question I've always had what level do I put the PC recording equipment to correspond with my USB XLR converter. I also use a K a 0T IKA eyeball. So you can get a sense I've spent a bit of money on this equipment and software and now the main thing is to get the mix right. Very much looking forward to your reply with great interest warmly Johannes we appreciate your channel and looking forward to the feedback. We also know you will write back to us because you're the good guys that are not just in it for the likes. So many of the RUclips is so leave a reply and they never respond back to me that's just a waste of time we can agree on this already because you started RUclips channel to help people not to ignore.
Hi, should the gain on your instrument be turned up to max before setting the gain on the interface or is this not relevant as long as you end up at the right level in the end ? If i turn my guitar up to max it doesn't take much to clip in the interface ! Can you help
Sorry guys im being REALLY thick here! What about the master? So the input signal dry is where is should be...Guitar rig 5 with distortion pushes the master up to -6db from -18db...Do I then turn down GR5 to being it back down so the input is to -18? do i leave it at -6 or do i turn down the audio track to -18?
Techno mage as long as the signal that is recorded sits around -18db BEFORE GR affects the sound you can use either the fader or adjust the output volume inside GR to taste. The recorded signal is the important factor. 👍
Such a basic video and crucial for getting a good take but I keep referring to it as some times I clip and I do not notice it until I send it to somebody and then tell me.
Very informative! But -18 would be extremely low if I render my Reaper project. It's really low when recording at around -6. A lot of people have the same problem, I've read countless forum threads about the same problem. No one seem to figure it out why Reaper lowers the volume so much when rendering. Maybe you know what I'm doing wrong. If so, I'm forever thankful
@@MikeH_PR I know, I'm just saying that it's a confusing concept overall, especially when you're familiar with the analog stuff where 0db is unity and you aren't clipping until +10db or more. There too reaper didn't have the "normalize" feature on the rendering until recently, so getting your rendered track to -14lufs or whatever was all but impossible or very tedious
Is there any Reaper user who has come up with some after/post-recording settings that can give you a studio-grade professional output to vocals like in cinema/film/video songs?
I know the question I am about to ask is not associated with this video nor this topic. But here goes. I just recently purchased EZMix 2, Mastering and Mastering II, and I really like it so far! However, the only area I am struggling with is setting up and utilizing the mastering process within Reaper. And I've been searching high and low to find the operational manual that will provide step-by-step instructions. Can you assist or help me find the instructions online? Again the only part I am stuck on is how to setup and produce the mastering results. And lastly, I've been unsuccessful locating a tutorial on Toontrack"s website. Thanks!
Hey Ty, Mastering is generally the process of increasing the overall volume of a track after mixing (where you get the balance of all the pieces where you want them to be throughout the song / audio). So, mastering is 'generally' pretty straightforward. Place your Mastering FX onto the Master track for your entire track / project. A 'typical' FX chain would be to use a Limiter to ensure you don't get too high volume wise while allowing you to boost overall output volume. A compressor (you could use a compressor instead or as well as a Limiter if it gives you the results you're looking for) to tame any wild dynamics in the overall mix (again, this is something that isn't a 'rule' but a guideline and should be tested with and without to see how the overall end result sounds). You may also want to add some EQ to control any dynamics in your track that get out of control (build up of bass, lack of overall mids or highs for example). These are just a few guidelines, as with mixing and mastering, it is all about getting the sound you want. Mastering is generally for volume and to ensure that if you are mixing an EP or Album, that all the tracks are outputting to a similar level and sound to be consistent throughout the whole thing. I hope that helps.
+ReaperTV Hey Paul, Thank you for the extended reply! Duh, why I didn't I think of placing a Mastering FX on the Master Track! I can't express enough how several of the tutorials on Reaper, EZ Drummer and EZ Mix has helped me to overcome several hurdles. Keep up the AWESOME work! Ty
Reaper just keeps giving you more, the more you master it.
Volume knob on guitar, master on preamp, volume of preset, gain on sound interface, level on DAW track, level on eq, level on comp... Good god!
For those who cannot get the meter in 2021.
Options > Layouts > Track Panel > 150c (or any other)
Like if you did it so people can see.. Been struggling with it for 1h.
everybody asking but no one looking ;)
It's worth mentioning that the reason you don't want to go over -12dbfs is typically because the preamps in the interface may begin to display signs of overload above that. That's going to depend on the interface, so read your manuals. If you don't find that info, test the preamps and see where you begin to see things changing on an analyzer. Take note of where that begins, and stay below that. For me, I stay at -12dbfs for my max peak because my Presonus Firestudio Project begins showing signs of overload at -10dbfs. That gets me the highest signal I can get before overload begins, which gives me a healthy signal-to-noise ratio at the analog input. Low noise floor, no overloading.
There's no set level in digital. -18dbfs is a good place to stay, but most of the tutorials fail to mention the possibility of overload above -10dbfs and the healthy signal to noise ratio. That's the reason we're staying in the range we are, and that's what makes a signal healthy.
The Noise Floor some great info there and definitely worth taking note of. Thanks for the feedback. 👍
The big meter!!!! I have done a heap of tutorials and reading manuals and jot found this option. It has driven me mad for a year or two, no more thanks!,
40º South good to hear we've solved the mystery. 👍
Hi. How can I setup the different colors in the big meter like in this video? In my layout I don’t get the colors changing as the signal level goes up like you have here. Can you help?
Interface changed a bit now, now it's:
Track layout -> Track Panel -> 200%_C
Thanks
thank u!
Haha I just completely fucked up my levels this week, and now this vid shows up. Perfect :D Time to retrack!
I would also argue that the comments about outboard gear could be clarified. The presenter is talking about during tracking, not during mixing. That should be assumed, since we're talking about recording levels, but people could still be confused.
This was VERY helpful to me. I tend to record a bit "hot", but focusing on keeping the signal between -18 and -12 seems to prevent digital clipping from happening. I bit more headroom is better, rather than getting the hottest possible signal coming in.
More headroom for mixing is definitely worth taking the time to get right at the recording stage :)
Thank you for taking the time to make these videos.
Brilliant stuff! Every one of these lessons makes me more aware of Reapers amazing capabilities.
I only just found out about the -18dB thing. I have been trying to record my signals as hot as possible, like you would with analog tape. D'oh!
Kudos to (1) ReaperTV, (2) the Roland Quad Capture :)
Glad to help. Recording with digital has different requirements to what would have been done when recording to tape. :0)
have a look at Reaper.tv there's a collection of videos all about recording your band in Reaper. Covers everything.
Thank you for a great video! I'm on day 2 of switching to Reaper from a very different DAW, and tutorials like this are a HUGE help!
These Vids are incredibly helpful- thanks.
BergR1 my pleasure 👍
You Explain things very well, And Big thank you for all your time, I am new to Reaper but I think it will do the job, Been using cubase for 10 years , Just need to get my head round it, , Hope you keep the videos going, Thank you,
Signal to noise ratio is a good thing to keep your eyes (ears) on. These days , though, with most recording interfaces offering up 24 bit depth rather than the old 16 bit standard, one can keep there tracking levels well below -10 dbfs without suffering signal to noise problems. What I find most important... pre-amp distortion (colour to some), which can be awful when it comes to cheaper pre-amps! If you have premium quality pre-amps and precisely clocked converters, you can record at any level desired (so-long as you don't hit 0 dbfs), then use the gainer handles in reaper to prepare the audio (average RMS level between -21 to -18 dbfs) for mixing. That's when one would start using them Waves or Slate variants of vintage analogue gear which are usually modelled to react to signals, and supply a headroom of 18 to 21 db before distortion, just like the real deal. Hence, a good reason to make sure your gain staging (somewhere along the line) is correct before plowing on the plugins... also, awesome for the master-bus. Kinda reminds me of the days when I had to gain-stage mixing console for tape playback.
when i go to the track layout options i don't have all those extra options, im using the newest version of reaper
I don't either
It's the theme he's using, comala 5
@@Zilmayjaink how do you get that theme
@@misled_perceptions in the reaper stash, you can google reaper stash and once inside use de search bar but if you never done this may result confusing as a lot of results would appear, so better yet I recommend googling Default Commala 5 and the first result is a reaper forum threat from the creators of said theme, with direct links to both the light and dark version (dark is more updated, is the one seen here in this video). Also our dear friend Reaper TV has a tutorial on this if I remember correctly
@@Zilmayjaink thank you
noone ever told me that! thank you! are you the programmer(s) of reaper too? im confused. reaper is such a nice tool to use, im still evaluation, started it about 20 times and for a total of 2 hours, having recorded.. well actually nothing at all.
I don't know what I'd do without this channel. Question: You record your guitars dry/direct, but I always record my distorted guitars WITH distortion + amp sims (but no other effects) via my Axe-Fx II. Would the same rule apply to distorted guitars as with dry/direct guitars? Should I still aim for -18 to -12?
Guitar Answer Guy Definitely. Aiming for this type of level on input is the key to plenty of head room for mixing and mastering once you have all your audio recorded.
Yet another great video and thanks a million for the Large Meter tip!!!
Hi Paul, I just wanted to add a note to your tutorial. In the pursuit of better guitar tones I discovered that setting the interface level as they describe by using the peak indicator then backing off a little provides the best tone for re-amping. However this is usually too hot for Reaper and too hot for amplifier vsts inside of Reaper. The answer is to use input FX to reduce the level into Reaper whilst maximising the optimum D to A conversion on your sound card. Try it and see if you hear how much fuller your DI guitar tracks become. Keep up the good work, great tutorials, Gary
Nice tip Gary, I'll definitely check it out and see how it compares.
Going too low on your interface can definitely sap a little life and energy out of your tone.
This seems like it will help the problem I've been having, with thin tones due to a low input volume on my audio interface (Scarlett Solo). Can you clarify, do you mean to use the guitar VST on the input FX to control recording volume? Or a different effect on the input FX to control recording volume?
Thank you for this video! Very well filmed!
Thank you very much :)
thanks for the great video!! it's recommend to record with interface gain turned up to close to clipping and then back it off a little. I have a focusrite 2i2 and it sounds really good with gain level set in the green/yellow area. but on my Reaper meter it shows that the signal is hot, just below zero -0.5(sounds good) I've recorded the same guitar on the same day keeping it around -18 with the Peaks just below -12 and it seems thin and a little harsh (focusrite never hits yellow Always Green). confused, it seems like a contradictory to keep the interface green/yellow to get a good signal but yet it's too hot for the mixing. what am I missing,which meter should I rely on.
Thanks for this.
Useful info.. -18db all the way :-) Do you have any info on how I can set-up those buttons (top left in DAW) in Reaper? I think you use them for instant colouring of tracks... EDIT: I found the answer in your '5 Power Tips for Reaper DAW - Boost Your Productivity' video. Thank you.
What if I have my level low on the interface to avoid clipping but the waveforms are super tiny? How to I increase the input if I clip the interface?
Thank you !
Using the latest version of Reaper (v.6.42) and can't find the 'big meter' in the track panel options. Has it moved?
you just helped to solve a big problem. thanks
Thanks for this i really dont what is healthy signal to record
Thank you for all the great videos! Beginner question - I'm running through a Scarlett Solo and using Amplitube 4 in Reaper. When I set the knob on the Scarlett to hit around -18db in Reaper, my guitar tone gets very thin when using Amplitube plugins. The problem is somewhat alleviated by increasing the input volume in Amplitube, but is there something else I can do to avoid losing tone at a low input volume?
Thank you, you sir are a gentleman
From Turkey, thanks
How do I see the peak meter in thr same way you have it displayed? Mine appears to be at the bottom.of the display?
I'm running through a Scarlett Solo and using Bias Fx in Reaper. When I set the Scarlett guitar output to hit around -18db in Reaper, my guitar signal is very thin as it has a very weak output into reaper. How do I reach the -18db mark without losing signal strength?
These rules apply to digital recordings of analog sources. In your case you'd set your interface as hot as possible before clipping your pre-amp during the performance. Here's a good video that can get you started ruclips.net/video/acfq8kRTqJE/видео.html
Very helpful, thanks.
A question
Is there a setting that can somehow limit the recording volume input..hard to explain but for example no matter how hard i strum my guitar it will limit the recording to only -18 db?
Thanks in advance
great tutorial and cool lookin guitar
I don't have Big Meter on my menu Track Layout/Track Panel/Big Meter. In Reaper 6.09 version, may 2020. Do you know if is it possible yet?
Track Layout - Track Panel - C
Thanks very much
I've been told that plugging an active guitar into my audio device can damage the audio device. I find that a bit odd. If the signal from an active guitar was harmful, there would be broken amps everywhere.
I've tracked with an active bass before. No issues on my end either.
I have this problem. My input from digitech processor is too low... and I need to use VST, like amplitube. When I use FX then its ok, but I dont have processor effects then.
I wonder: what is the necessity of doing things quickly? Isn’t it better to do things well? People are too worried about easy and quicker rather than doing excellent recordings.
Mmmmm I don't have the option of a big meter?
It's a part of the Default 4.0 theme. You can switch back to whatever you prefer after tracking :)
@@ShittyMcPoopyBalls so how do I get it? It isn't on my layout as well
me neither try.. Track Layout - Track Panel - Small Full Meter
Kareem Thomas bet appreciate it bro
I absolutely love the meter setup (at about 4:38) but can't work out how to do it in a later edition of Reaper - 6.46 on a Mac. Any help would be really appreciated.
Checking this out today :) Thanks
thank you sir. extrmely helpful
Hello, so my guitar input should be as low as -18db? Even at minimum input gain in the hi-z channel on my UAD apollo, I'm coming out at about -9 with the loudest parts of palm mutes on electric guitar, with no fx active. The pickups aren't even actives, think they rate about 13.5 ohms. Not sure what I can do then, guess I'll need to buy a di box with -20db or something?
clean playing
Thanks! Great video!
I use an external Solid State preamp for every type of instrument\vocal, and when this preamp shows 0 as the loudest I iknow that my signal is Ok, cause it`s calibrated to -18 db RMS
Great video. An advice needed ! :) What is the right way to record (voice, guitars, bass) 1) with effects on 2) without any effects (they are supposed to be added later). Thank you
Personally I would keep any FX until after I had a good quality DI signal to work with unless it was something like a hardware compressor, etc.
You can always re-amp a DI signal to add FX but you can't remove them from the DI if they are there at the input stage and you want to change something later down the line.
The problem with tips like this that confuses people is you don't go into detail on which of the dozens of input/gain levels to adjust.
Gain staging is confusing and I still don't know which of any of the hundred gain settings to adjust first. On the interface or the Amp or the plugin or even the volume knob on the guitar.
There has to be a correct process, but most guides I see just say "Aim for - 18db" and that's it. Except - 18db can either sound like shit or great depending on your millions of knob settings.
Fuck it. I'll just play Black Metal so none of this matters.
For elect aucustinc there is a volume on the guitar too what am I going to do with guitar volume?
Can't u just record a few vocals without watching the meters, then go back and listen and see where it is on the meters, and adjust ur audio Input gain knob from there?
What's a good level for a sub bass hit that sounds like a BOOM that hits hard but doesn't cut out the rest of the audio ?
As someone who wanted to record himself, I gave up. And I made an album with a band as a teen on a 16 track yamaha workstation.
I can't play and adjust shit on my AI simultaneously. I use to enjoy playing through and entire part of a song and havung the levels work, need a second person for this? Or is there new tech that will lower and raise so it does clip but is saturated enough?
It's not at all enjoyable doing this all by myself.
Fantastic
Very useful tutorial! I have one question: I have a focusrite 2i4 2nd gen (with -10db pad switch) and my setup is pretty basic. I enter into my audio interface and then into reaper. I keep the audio interface knob at minimum + the 10db reduction switch engaged and i manage to get around -18 db (with peaks at -14db). I then use Bias as Vst for tones. The problem is that when I'm tracking, the gain stays at around -18db, while when I play back what I have recorded is way higher (-5 db)!! I'm probably doing something wrong.. as far as I understand the gain should be the same, both in recording phase and in playback.. I'm lost.. thank you in advance.
For some reason. My rhode NT1A is sooo quiet have to crank it all the way up to even hear it quietly.
check phase?
I fucking love this channel! :D
hi there. i have latency issues using it on reaper. how do i do feedback loop on this umc device? i am trying to sort the offset setting to have no latency when recording.
I set the levels before recording my guitar (2i2>>>Reaper) but when I play back the recording the levels are much higher. I’m NOT using direct monitoring (2i2) and record monitoring is on (Reaper). I am using FX (plug-ins) and I can lower the output of that but I can’t see what the playback level will be before (or while) recording. This is driving me nuts!
Thank you for all the vids - will pledge. This said, I don't have all of the same track layouts that you have. I've been dying to get something like that. Where do I get all those track layouts ? Thanks for your help
great advice. cheers.
why does a simplistic program like Audacity give you the freedom to adjust input level from within the program and with a fully-fledged DAW like Reaper you have to do it through the audio interface? What if someone doesn't have an interface and just plugs-in an instrument in line-in?
Well explained video But... the problem comes when one starts adding multiple fx in the master channel that have volume being added including the sonarworks reference which has to be last in order. Which volume are we to set things up to?
Hi, what reaper theme are you using? How I can get that BIG meters? Thanks
Hello, congratulations on the tutorial. One question, Do you have a tutorial on how to normalize recorded or unrecorded audio at -4 in peak, for example? Sorry for the translator use writing. Thank you very much. Célio Brasil.
im using Blackstar Amp usb connection to record directly from my AMP to computer using reaper....but when im using heavy distorted gainy present my recording level always clips with red signal ! how can i bring it to -18 db without losing the tone?
What theme are you using exactly ?? Mine is default and i cannot get the big meter like you have
Track Layout - Track Panel - C 200%
God bless you brother!🙏👍 you're a life saver🙏🙌🌟🌠🎳🎆
No problem at all :)
I'm using Reaper v5.50c and in the track layout options there isn't a 'Big Meter' option. The option available are very different to what is shown on your screen. Is the big meter no longer an option?
What about when recording DI guitars and you need a good signal to noise ratio? I’ve been taught to set my interface just before it peaks and then gain stage it later.
when i record with audio interface i don't see much difference when i am not using it.. AM I MISSING SOMETHING?
maybe u aint installed the right driver for yr interface
Hi there Paul! Hope all is well! Paul I could't find the stock TRIM plug-in. Is it there under a different name? I was informed that this is one of the most essential plug-in required to produce radio ready music. Thanks again, Ty
Do you have a template or steps to setup and organize Reaper as you have - This would really help me organize my work flow - Thanks Chris
Thank you, this is awesome!
another TAKE HOME as always... thanks!!!
one question.. how could you set those icons in a single horizontal ilne? generally, they always tend to be in Double line, occupying precious space.. how to shift them as seen at 1:34 in this video?
I would rather prefer to simply Erase them from their default place, but I am unable to do that as well...
thanks in advance
You can expand the Track Control Panel (TCP) to allow more room for the toolbar or Right Click the toolbar and choose Position Toolbar > At top of Main Window.
ReaperTV will see... :)
please help. my db level for my accoustic guitar is under -24. i have the gain maxed out and the volume maxed out on my guitar. what else can i do to make the level between -12 and -18? i have the guitar plugged in to my ux2 instrument input.
The option of the big meter is not in all the layout themes! A bit strange......
I found this to be true
So how do you access the big meter if you don't have it on your layout?
I believe this is Comalla 5
@@LOVEROGET I think he used the Comalla 5 theme. It has different track options
Catalyst Machine Photography thanks for letting me know bro for real.
I have a guitar with passive pickups and a Focusrite Solo 2nd Gen. With the interface gain nob at the zero and the pickups physically lowered to the lowest they can go, I'm still getting peaks up to -10 and I'm getting some very unpleasant noise that comes with this overload. Has anyone had to deal with something like that?
Where do I want my drums to sit? Also at the -18 to -12 or slightly above it to make it stand out a bit more?
Hi love reaper tv tutorials,
watched this one over a few times, I use the focusrite scarlet 2i4 interface, one issue I encounter quite often and I need to find out why is it my gain knob is practically at 0 and still the reaper meter shoots up into red, can you please explain why this is happening when trying to record vocal using my Neat King Bee mic and using my rode nt1 a I can go to about 9-o-clock, thanks
Help I don't see 'Set track layout'
is there any way to lower the input level in Reaper? or do you have to do it by lowering the input of your audio interface?
Is it possible to record the guitar directly with the amp via usb? Because I can't adjust the volume
Hey there quick question is question for those who are in the know. I've been doing karaoke tracks from RUclips with reaper and a PC recording like manner. I have an XLR to USB converter in my laptop the question is what level what I said the PC settings to in terms of recording I normally sit around the 40% mark which mark would you suggest. Trudy looking forward to reply, because most channels that I asked the question on or play this what I call rap crap it doesn't even equate to singing is just talking with using plug-ins to make sound better. I have invested in a course from per Bristow, to improve my singing. Now however looking at getting the mix right. I have a number of isotope plug-ins such as neutron nectar. The question I've always had what level do I put the PC recording equipment to correspond with my USB XLR converter. I also use a K a 0T IKA eyeball. So you can get a sense I've spent a bit of money on this equipment and software and now the main thing is to get the mix right. Very much looking forward to your reply with great interest
warmly Johannes we appreciate your channel and looking forward to the feedback.
We also know you will write back to us because you're the good guys that are not just in it for the likes.
So many of the RUclips is so leave a reply and they never respond back to me that's just a waste of time we can agree on this already because you started RUclips channel to help people not to ignore.
What theme is that brother ?
On my Focusrite Solo I get peaks at -8 when playing heavy riffs. I'm confused.
Hi, should the gain on your instrument be turned up to max before setting the gain on the interface or is this not relevant as long as you end up at the right level in the end ? If i turn my guitar up to max it doesn't take much to clip in the interface ! Can you help
Sorry guys im being REALLY thick here! What about the master? So the input signal dry is where is should be...Guitar rig 5 with distortion pushes the master up to -6db from -18db...Do I then turn down GR5 to being it back down so the input is to -18? do i leave it at -6 or do i turn down the audio track to -18?
Techno mage as long as the signal that is recorded sits around -18db BEFORE GR affects the sound you can use either the fader or adjust the output volume inside GR to taste. The recorded signal is the important factor. 👍
What Theme did you use in this video? I like it and can't find it! Cheers
Such a basic video and crucial for getting a good take but I keep referring to it as some times I clip and I do not notice it until I send it to somebody and then tell me.
Very informative! But -18 would be extremely low if I render my Reaper project. It's really low when recording at around -6. A lot of people have the same problem, I've read countless forum threads about the same problem. No one seem to figure it out why Reaper lowers the volume so much when rendering.
Maybe you know what I'm doing wrong. If so, I'm forever thankful
that's what i've been trying to figure out forever, if i record at -18dbfs, the render is barely audible.
@@leeknivek this principle is purely about the signal in, rather than any volume you introduce during production. The video does say this.
@@MikeH_PR I know, I'm just saying that it's a confusing concept overall, especially when you're familiar with the analog stuff where 0db is unity and you aren't clipping until +10db or more.
There too reaper didn't have the "normalize" feature on the rendering until recently, so getting your rendered track to -14lufs or whatever was all but impossible or very tedious
Yeah, I can't get a big meter like that. Followed the exact same steps you showed, and nothing
Is there any Reaper user who has come up with some after/post-recording settings that can give you a studio-grade professional output to vocals like in cinema/film/video songs?
I know the question I am about to ask is not associated with this video nor this topic. But here goes. I just recently purchased EZMix 2, Mastering and Mastering II, and I really like it so far! However, the only area I am struggling with is setting up and utilizing the mastering process within Reaper. And I've been searching high and low to find the operational manual that will provide step-by-step instructions. Can you assist or help me find the instructions online? Again the only part I am stuck on is how to setup and produce the mastering results. And lastly, I've been unsuccessful locating a tutorial on Toontrack"s website. Thanks!
Hey Ty,
Mastering is generally the process of increasing the overall volume of a track after mixing (where you get the balance of all the pieces where you want them to be throughout the song / audio). So, mastering is 'generally' pretty straightforward.
Place your Mastering FX onto the Master track for your entire track / project.
A 'typical' FX chain would be to use a Limiter to ensure you don't get too high volume wise while allowing you to boost overall output volume. A compressor (you could use a compressor instead or as well as a Limiter if it gives you the results you're looking for) to tame any wild dynamics in the overall mix (again, this is something that isn't a 'rule' but a guideline and should be tested with and without to see how the overall end result sounds).
You may also want to add some EQ to control any dynamics in your track that get out of control (build up of bass, lack of overall mids or highs for example).
These are just a few guidelines, as with mixing and mastering, it is all about getting the sound you want. Mastering is generally for volume and to ensure that if you are mixing an EP or Album, that all the tracks are outputting to a similar level and sound to be consistent throughout the whole thing.
I hope that helps.
+ReaperTV
Hey Paul,
Thank you for the extended reply! Duh, why I didn't I think of placing a Mastering FX on the Master Track! I can't express enough how several of the tutorials on Reaper, EZ Drummer and EZ Mix has helped me to overcome several hurdles. Keep up the AWESOME work! Ty
Ty Ellis no problem at all, I hope it helped 🙂
Glad to hear the vids and the channel has been useful in helping overcome those hurdles too. 😀
can't do this on my theme, is there another way of doing it?
If I'm using an amp sim (amplitube) should I load amplitube VST before setting levels? Or set levels with dry guitar input first?
Cosmocalypse on the dry signal. It's all about input. 😉