Use a backup when doing live recording! February 21, 2008
Posted by ConnorSmith in : Live Sound, Studio Setup, Troubleshooting , trackbackToday I answered 2 posts in different forums. Both were from unfortunate engineers who didn’t have a backup for their live recordings.
Their systems crashed, corrupted what audio they did have, and now they have nothing. Apparently these were both for paid jobs, and now the client will have no product.
Never, never, never, ever do any sort of live recording (paid or unpaid) without at least one backup. If possible, I would suggest always having a “duplicate” backup (some sort of exact copy) as well as an additional stereo backup (such as a handheld recorder or extra pair of mics). Here are some ideas on how to make backups:
If you are recording with a DAW on your computer, you especially will want to have a backup. Computers glitch when we least expect or want them to (and in the process, can ruin the whole session). If you are recording to a computer, have a non-computer-based backup running.
If you are doing stereo recordings, I would recommend using the Alesis Masterlink as your backup. This is a 2-track hard disk recorder with both analog and digital i/o. Run your mic preamps into the Masterlink’s analog inputs, and then connect either the analog outputs or S/PDIF from the Masterlink to your computer interface. This way, the tracks are being recorded to the Masterlink and then additionally on your computer’s DAW.
If you are doing multitrack recordings, you will need something with more inputs, such as an Alesis HD24. The setup would be similar to the Masterlink, only this time you would run your preamps into the HD24, and then either run analog outputs or ADAT (lightpipe) outputs into your computer interface.
Now, I understand these are not inexpensive options. Those backups are probably better suited for someone doing a lot of live recordings. However, there are other options. When a computer fails mid-session, most of us would be happy to have ANYTHING to work with.
Well, good thing for handheld recorders. From the Zoom H2, to the Edirol R-09, all the way up to the mighty Sony PCM-D1, there are a lot of options (and price ranges) on hand held recorders. For anyone doing any live recordings, I would say that investing in a handheld recorder is a great idea. Even if the power goes out, you can keep rolling on that saxophone solo in the jazz combo.
I have found myself loading the car for a live recording and thinking “Do I really need to bring that extra case with the backup gear…? I’d much rather carry one less thing…” No! No! Bring your backups! 
The first time you don’t bring your backup will be the first time you have to tell a client “I’m sorry, my computer died and I have nothing”.
If you have questions about setting up a live recording rig, or about backups, just post in the comments here or email me.
C
The Studio Files
Comments»
A lot of guys are using the Tascam X-48 as a multitrack backup system.
Yeah, if the Tascam X-48 is in your budget, its an awesome way to record live music (whether its as a backup or the main rig). It can record 48 tracks at a time, which is surely enough to handle almost anything you can throw at it. Unfortunately, its a little out of the price range of a lot of people (especially when just used as a backup device).
That unit bridges the gap between hard disk recorders and the computer-based DAW. It has firewire and USB ports, and even an output for a computer monitor. It has software which allows you to edit and mix (with support for third party plug-ins. Its really awesome.
For anyone interested in it, you can see it HERE.
C
The Studio Files
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