Recording myself in stereo?

Question

I'm recording myself singing on my pc, using: shure sm58 mic, Behringer Xenyx 502 mixer, Audacity sound editing software. I can only record myself in mono at the moment. Do I need to adjust Audacity or Xenyx? Or is it not possible?

Answer 1

Vocals are suppose to be in the center of the mix with the music surrounding it. I know this because I'm signed to a starter record label called Zoomoozik Digital Records where you have to invest in yourself to prove that you've got what it takes.

I learned to how to make stereo recording on Audacity.  If you want your vocals in stereo with audacity go to Edit - Preferences or Ctrl+P then it will bring up the menu up.  Here is where you can change how many channels you can record at one time.  The first menu you see is the Audio I/O look at the Recording Device then down again to Channels. Select it from 1 to 2 channels and you will be recording in Stereo.

Another way to do this is to record yourself in mono. Then record yourself again to the track you did then click the down arrow on your tracks menu and select Make Stereo Track.

If you don't feel that you should record yourself twice (as in my honest professional opinion sounds unprofessional) just select the whole vocal track and hit Crtrl+D to duplicate it. Do the same thing hit the down arrow on your track to pull up the menu and select Make Stereo Track.

If you would like a good example of what vocals should sound in your mix preview my work at www.myspace.com/deathbyfire1

All the other tracks should be in 100% stereo, but your vocals need to sound like they are in the center of the 2 speakers. As if you were to hear it live vocals in front, guitars to the left and right, bass is mono for me so it can be heard easier and drums are mixed accordingly.

I hope I helped answer your question! take care