Recording Head Room

What is meant by "overhead" or "head room"?

Hi darkfrett,

This usually refers to the amount of room you have left to increase the volume without distorting.

Technically speaking:
"the amount of decibel output that can be spared from where your signal is, and the maximum signal level without opening distortion into the mix."

from:
http://homerecording.about.com/od/recordingglossary/g/def_headroom.htm

Its how Neal is saying - the normal headroom you have is 0.5 - 1 DB. The headroom is needed to work with dynamic processors such as compessors, maximizers or others.

HP

Originally Posted by: Neal WalterHi darkfrett,

This usually refers to the amount of room you have left to increase the volume without distorting.

Technically speaking:
"the amount of decibel output that can be spared from where your signal is, and the maximum signal level without opening distortion into the mix."

from:
http://homerecording.about.com/od/recordingglossary/g/def_headroom.htm

Great! That is easy to understand and defines it so well. I know exactly what you are saying.

Thanks,
df

Originally Posted by: hpcrazyIts how Neal is saying - the normal headroom you have is 0.5 - 1 DB. The headroom is needed to work with dynamic processors such as compessors, maximizers or others.

HP

Now this reply answers my very next question. (mind readers) The 0.5db - 1.0db seems a little small. But, I guess using a compressor or limitor it would work. What about if you do not use a limitor or compressor, what should the db be? I'm guessing -6.0db?

With using a computer, I can record right and left channel, no more at least with my setup. In my case I will be going back to record several more tracks one at a time. If I choose to record with a tape deck, does each aditional recording add to the signal pushing it into distortion? Should I start with lower db's then by the time I add all the tracks, the level would still be under the distotion level?

Thanks,
df


Thanks,
df