Expert: Cleggsan - 5/1/2011

Question
Okay, I am currently using a recording software called 'Audacity' and I am in a rap group with my friends. We have a decent sounding microphone, not the best not the worst. Anyways, I was wondering what effects would help the quality increase and make the vocals physically sound better. I've heard that compressor and normalize help but i don't know the correct settings and what not. Please help!
Thanks
RJK
www.purevolume.com/2jR

Answer
I listened to a couple of your songs on the purevolume.com web page.  Doesn't sound too bad.

Here are my comments.
ONE:  As always, mic differences exist and they must be integrated with the acoustics of the space you are using for the recording.
TWO:  The PC stuff, sound card or any processing equipment must be optimized.
THREE: The recording mics should never be in the geometric center of the studio/recording room.  Place the mics at a place off to the side so the reflections come from different time delays.
FOUR:  The vocals on your songs don't seem to be up front enough for me and the mic is probably the difference.  Also, the male voice needs more mid-bass to give more masculinity to the voice quality - in my opinion.

Without seeing your entire setup it is difficult to know so much detail... but start with the mic placement and voice EQ before going out for other mics.  That is what I say for now.

Let me know your progress.