Music production guide

5 tips for better vocal recordings

A good vocal recording does not need to be complicated. Five simple habits produce cleaner takes that are easier to edit and mix.

The five basic rules

Keep your distance consistent. Stay roughly 10 to 20 cm from the microphone so the tone and level remain steady.
Use a pop filter. It reduces harsh plosives on P, B and T and helps keep level changes under control.
Sing slightly past the microphone. Turning a little to the side can make plosives and sharp S sounds more comfortable.
Record in a quiet space. Close windows and doors and reduce hard reflections with curtains or other soft surfaces.
Leave headroom. A clean, slightly quieter take is much easier to raise later than a clipped recording.

Learn how to publish and make your music visible on the SoundNexus guides.