
One of the things that can destroy your next recording from the start is an inappropriate cymbal sound. When making a record if you build on a structure of cymbals that are too bright, dark, broken or noisy you will be aching throughout the process and never able to get the result you want. Here are a few ideas on how to make sure you don't have a cymbal problem when it comes time to record drums.
- If you have broken cymbals you need to borrow cymbals. Unless you are going for some serious avant garde cymbal sounds you are going to hear the break whether it is the cymbal not resonating and sustaining properly or a full on clanky noise. Borrow or buy new ones.
- Make sure you are realistic about the tones you want. If you have K's and you want a bright polished pop song you may be in trouble. Where as AAX's are not going to give you a jazzy sound. Yet again, borrow and buy cymbals appropriate to the sound you want since EQ and micing isn't going to get change it.
- While your 16" crash may sound awesome live, if you play beats on it and crash on it with 8th notes it can sound thin and brittle in the studio. If you plan on taking one to the studio make sure you listen to the difference of a 18" and 16" played in this context before you go in to the studio. This is one of the things I see drummers regret all the time.
- Discuss the cymbal situation between drummer and engineer in advance, it can kill hours of time and money if you need to run to the music store when you arrive at the studio with an unusable cymbal. The studio may have cymbals or someone you can rent/borrow from. Discuss in advance and you will be more happy with your next recording.
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