![]() ![]() However, it does so in a way that cannot be achieved with a traditional EQ. That is, a tape machine gently rolls off high end frequencies and creates a small boost in the lows (called head bump). In regard to frequency response, we generally think of analog tape as sounding dark and warm. ![]() At a basic root of this complex character is a change in frequency response, subtle compression, and saturation of 3 rd order harmonics. However, it (and the emulation of it) is still commonly used to add a character during the mix and master processes. In modern professional practice, audio is often recorded into the DAW and then routed to the tape machine at a later time during the mix or mastering process.Īnalog tape is, practically speaking, outdated as a means to record sound. In this circumstance the tape machine is now used as a unique aesthetic instead of as a recording necessity. Although, instead of using tape as their primary medium of recording, tape is now commonly used in conjunction with a digital audio workstation serving as the main recording and playback device. The truth of the matter is that many notable audio professionals still use tape machines. However, there is no argument against accurate digital to analog conversion, seamless audio editing, one-touch memory locations, and now offline rendering being extremely useful tools that are virtually impossible in the analog domain. Some can argue that recording to an analog tape machine still sounds “better” than recording in the digital domain with all of its advancements. The speed, convenience, upward mobility, and ultimately the affordability of digital audio workstations became more practical and efficient than using analog tape to capture and playback sound.ĭigital audio workstations as a recording medium now dominate the recording industry. At some point as we approached the millennium, there was a digital tipping point. It wasn’t until the 1970’s that the first commercially distributed digital recordings were published however, still decades after the introduction of digital capability, analog tape machines were the preferred medium of recording audio. About 20 years later, digital audio technology as a recording medium was in its infancy. Not only did they provide superior functionality as a recording medium, but the sound quality was unparalleled for decades. We will discuss a brief history of analog tape, characteristics of analog tape, common parameters of tape, and last, but not least, plugins that can get you started in no time(well, maybe some time)!Īnalog tape machines revolutionized the recording industry in the 1940’s. In this article, we will be discussing the digital emulation of tape machines in particular. ![]() The software is modeled to sound like and be controlled in the same manner as their original analog predecessors. ![]() Tape machines, compressors, EQs, preamps, and many other popular analog tools that were used to make your favorite records are now being released as plugins to be used within the DAW of your choice. That is, digital emulation of classic analog masterpieces. These general trends in the audio business have been underway for quite some time now, but as of the last few years the digital audio tech companies have been releasing products that even veteran and old school engineers alike can be excited about. On the contrary, many see it as an opportunity by embracing the competition and starting their own business from the ground up, on a computer alone. Many audio professionals perceive this as a negative shift due to a flood of amateur quality audio content released across many social media and music distribution platforms. The commercial studio business is on the downfall, while home/project/mobile studio professionals and hobbyist are on the rise. High quality recordings are more affordable than ever to make. The capabilities and quality of the digital audio domain continue to expand and improve at unprecedented rates. As audio engineers we live in a very exciting time. ![]()
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