There are three settings to keep in mind before you start any session:
Buffer size
Bitrate
Sample rate
Depending on the DAW software you are using, there is usually a section where you can change these settings for every session and I’m here to break them down for you. These settings are important to keep in mind because they can really change how recordings come out and can make a workflow a lot easier when the right options are chosen. Let’s dive in!
BUFFER SIZE
So first step, if you are recording – is to set the buffer size of the session to the lowest possible setting (usually 32 samples).
Screen Capture from Logic Pro X
This will avoid you hearing any latency/delay when you record. So if you are hearing any delay when recording – this is going to be the setting you will need to check. The higher the buffer size the more latency you will hear.
When mixing, the opposite is true. Having your buffer size set to the highest amount when mixing is best so that your computer does not have a hard time when you are making edits or using audio plugins, as those tend to take up a lot of computer processing.
BITRATE
Next, we will look at the bitrate settings. I recommend setting your bitrate to 24 bits when doing any type of recording. This will provide the best resolution and the most headroom - which just means that you have more room for the audio signal to reach its peak levels before clipping.
Screen Capture of Logic Pro X
SAMPLE RATE
The last setting to check is the sample rate. 44.1kHz is the standard that most audio is consumed but you can record with 48khz and higher if you’d like. Keep in mind that the higher the sample rate – the more processing power your computer will need so it might cause some lagging issues if you don’t have a computer with a good processor. For now, I’d recommend just sticking to 44.1 or 48khz, anything higher does not have an audible difference.
That's it! Those are the three main settings to check before starting any recording or mixing session. Simple enough right? I hope you found this information helpful. As always, if you have any questions or topics you'd like to see covered, let me know in the comments!
Feel free to check out my FREE home studio gear guide down below for my recommendations and tips on everything you need to start a home studio on any budget.
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