I’m not new to recording (used to go to school for producing/engineering back in the analog days), but I am new to Audacity. I did a search in this forum but couldn’t find what I’m looking for so thought I’d post the question here.
Essentially, I’m singing and recording my vox using an SM-58 with the AudioBuddy pre-amp (cheap but good for now). I’ve d-loaded a few VST filters for delay/reverb/compression etc… but I’m finding the final vox are kinda tinny and I’m looking for that ‘breathy’ more ‘in your face’ sound (it’s alternative-rock material).
Can anyone post which VST Filters they’ve used for adding vocal fx and what settings they used? I would like to try some new settings/filters from people who have had success with them in the past.
Sounds like your asking for opinions and personal experience, so here goes:
I don’t use VST with Audacity, I stick with LADSPA and Nyquist plug-ins.
I usually prefer to use a large diaphragm condenser mic for vocals rather than a dynamic, but whatever…
Microphone position utmost importance, particularly with a cardioid response - if the voice is naturally bass heavy, do not get too close - for more bottom end, get close. Use a pop shield or foam wind shield to assist in keeping the singer the correct distance from he mic (also reduces pops )
Use the SC4 compressor with very short attack to even out the vocals - “RMS” setting sounds more natural, “Peak” setting is better for limiting peaks.
For adding reverb, make a duplicate of the track (Ctrl+D) and apply “Wet” reverb to that track (GVerb or Freeverb), then adjust the level of the original track and the “wet” track to get the balance of Dry/Wet reverb level.
BTW, the SM58 is not at all bad as a vocal mic. You can always use a bit of Equalization to help the tonal balance.
Generally when using effects, it is very easy to overdo it, so keep it subtle at first. Always keep backup copies of the original tracks (Export as WAV files) so that you have something to go back to if you mess it up.
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