How to Record Electronic Drum Tracks

Most music lovers at one time or another were impressed with a drum solo. After all, the drummer's hands and feet all are playing different beats simultaneously. Thanks to modern technology, however, you can create your own "drummer in a box" by recording electronic drum tracks. This is a popular alternative, especially when a "live" drummer is not an option.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basic knowledge of drumbeats
• Some drumming experience

1. Formulate the drumbeats or patterns you want to record, including how many measures, how many beats per measure and how many steps per beat.

2. Practice your pattern on the drum pads. Experiment with different drum pad heads, such as plastic, rubber or acoustic, to achieve your desired sound. Some drum pads allow you to use sticks; others you must play with your fingers.

3. Familiarize yourself with your electronic drum machine before recording. Know how to create, recreate and tweak various sounds and effects and adjust the different levels. You can alter most sounds after you record the drum track.

4. Open the electronic drum machine software application. Choose "File" from the dropdown menu and click on "Create a New Project." Input the information from Step 1 into the "Project Properties" box starting with the desired tempo or the number of drumbeats per minute.

5. Press record and begin playing. Follow the onscreen directions. Record several measures before playing it back. If you like what you hear click "Save" and name your drum track. Repeat this step to record additional tracks or to enhance a previously recorded one.

6. Add cymbals, high hats and foot pedals to enhance your drumbeat. Isolate the bass and snare drums or play them together.

7. Use your imagination. Electronic drum machines allow you to play and record drum patterns that actual drumming does not.

Tips & Warnings

• The quality of your drum tracks depends on the quality of your electronic drum machine.