BlueTubeDP Help

[InHouse1]

I have a basic recording setup. The setup is this. I'm using a Delta 44 audio card, with a BlueTubeDP preamp and Studio Projects TB1 mic.

I'm trying to set the Tube Drive/Gain levels for channel 1 recording correctly, and everyone has their own preference obviously, but I'm fairly uneducated in this area, so I really have no clue. That's not to say I haven't spent countless hours researching and trying on my own. Nothing seems to work right.

Can someone help me get the sound quality up to par? I really would appreciate the help. ANY help....

[ricknaqvi]

What are you mic'ing with the TB1/BlueTube DP?

[InHouse1]

I'm not sure I follow.

What type of stuff am I recording? Just vocals for hip hop.

[InHouse1]

No one has a BlueTubeDP or is familiar w/it that can help?

[passerby3141]

Hey there InHouse1,
Hope you are still checking this thread as it has been a while since anyone has posted here. This forum is rather active, but not dramatically so.

For someone to help you out, they need to know a bit more about what it is that you don't like about the sound. I am not familiar with the mic you are mentioning. I did a quick search and found out it was a tube mic anyway.

First of all, you are recording vocals right? Some things to consider.....

Give the mic some space, at least 6 inches.

Since it is a tube mic, start with no tube engaged in the preamp, stacking tube gear can sometimes make things a bit muddy, especially when using equipment at the price point you are using.

Use a windscreen, this will do 2 things. 1) help prevent pops, 2) help maintain the space a mic needs to breathe.

Use some compression (or a lot of it!) Compression helps to keep the voice up-front in the mix, something that is important for hip-hop, si or no?

Tubes like to warm up! Give them at least an hour before you record. You could also try changing the tubes in your gear if feel adventurous.

Don't give up! But remember, your favorite recordings were most likely made using equipment that cost many, many, many, times what you are using, and recorded in a very controlled environment.