Learning to create high-quality recordings is central to electroacoustic music.  These techniques also translate directly into recording studio environments, field recording, and almost any other situation which requires audio input.

The core principle is to maximize signal quality on the way in.  As a rule of thumb, this means recording the maximum amplitude without going over the limit while deferring effects like reverb, equalisation (EQ), and other environmental effects to later.  The last part of this is important to note: if one were to record sounds with reverb or EQ that, in the end, sounded unflattering, there is no way to get back the original signal. Think of it like taking a picture, if a shot you took turned out blurry (or the camera's cap was on!), all the sharpening or lighing effects in the world will never get back the original shot.  One could, however, easily manipulate a clear, high-quality shot--blurring or applying other effects--to achieve almost any look.

In seeking the highest quality signal there are a number of important concepts to understand.  Each of these will be discussed in detail in the following sections.

Where can I find documentation for the studio hardware and software?

Harware and software documementation can be found several ways.  Hard copies of appropriate mauals and how-to's can be found within each respective studio as well as online where available.  Online help often includes additional resources such as video demonstrations or tutorials.

Course documentation is handed out at the beginning of each class.  If you did not get a handout they are available by request or in the file cabinet in the back of Studio B. 

 

Who may access the digital music studios?

Anyone taking a digital music course can have access.  Other permission may be granted on a case-by-case basis.  In general access is restrictive both as a means of security and as a guarantee of access for existing users.  That said, the fundamental purpose of the studios is to provide students a means to make music.  Faculty and staff will do whatever they can to make sure this happens

My ID's not working. What should I do?

First make sure you are inserting it correctly. Put your thumb over your picture and then dip your card. If you try it the other way, it won't work. A green light should flash, and you should be able to open the door. If the card is facing the right way, and you still get a red flashing light, contact ehf6@cornell.edu. 

How do I sign up for studio time?

Click the studio signup link on the website. Select the room you wish to reserve, then the week in which you want to reserve time. Click the Go button. Find the timeslot you want (remember that the times are in 24-hour format). Click on the left-most icon. Enter your NetID. Depending on which room you sign up for, you may need to enter a suffix:

B27: No suffix. NetID only.
B25B: NetID + b (e.g. ehf6b)
B25C: NetID + c (e.g. ehf6c)
B25D: NetID + d (e.g. ehf6d)

Then enter your password. This will initially be set to your NetID (no suffix).

Click the subscribe button. Done. 

How much time may I reserve each week?

You may sign up for up to six hours each week, but not more than two hours consecutively. If you are collaborating and wish to work in sessions of up to four hours, you may use each collaborator's NetID in sequence to sign up for more time.  Please change this initial password as soon as you can.

May I keep working if noone else is using the studio?

Yes. 

This list will change (expand and contract) from time to time depending on your questions.  If there are common questions or concerns whcih you feel belong here, please contact the site adminstrator/faculty.