how to learn vocal effects?

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2007 7:40 am

We're not recording, just playing in clubs, weekend warrior. Not skilled in sound engineering either so I was wondering what training is available to learn the basics of using the effects on lead vocals. We simply want to get close to the original sound on the 60's and 70's rock we cover.

We have a Peavey XR 684.

Lots of trial and error using our ears (as someone has already ranted on me about) is necessary. I'm hoping for learning, knowledge and education on sound effects too, in addition to the real-world/OJT-type knowledge.

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2007 9:37 am

Just a little reverb.

It's like salt, baby. Don't overdo it.

There are different types of reverb, and I don't know if you want plate or what. Others here know more about that.

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2007 10:26 am

There are some very good books on live sound. This forum has a "Books to Read" section, check it out. The MIX Bookshelf has a number of books available on live sound. Some of these are in the Church Sound section, especially Yamaha's book. Yamaha has long been a strong educator in this field, as well as a very highly-regarded developer of DSP gear. You ought to research that, especially if you're serious aboult learning.

Every manufacturer has a different take on what the reverbs are. The terms "Plate", "Spring", "Hall", etc. can sound totally different from manufacture to manufacturer. That is really not a good way to classify the sounds of them. Maybe Peavey has a section in the owners' manual dedicated to the effects terms and descriptions. If not, maybe an e-mail to their support department can help.

Personally, I am not a big fan of reverb on lead vocals in a live situation; I prefer to use a fast delay that will "double up" the singer instead. Many reverbs, especially on cheap mixers sound "smeared" and "muddy". A little bit of a "short plate" (at least from my Lexicon) will "mesh" background vocals. Like MadTiger said, a little bit goes a long way.Try to stay away from the modulated effects like flanging and phasing. Like you were told in another post, they can induce feedback.

In any case, if you are having a problem getting a good vocal sound, you have to start off with good vocalists and mic technique. Throwing DSP at the problem is not likely to help. But try telling that to a lot of musicians out there... Laughing

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2007 1:02 pm

Thanks you two. I will look for the books. The Peavey u-g does not have anything.

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2007 1:04 pm

Oh and, what techniques are good mic techniques? Any basic recommendations to start with?

Posted: Sat Oct 20, 2007 3:36 pm

Staying on-axis and singing consistently. The Yammy book details this, too.

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