Multi-tracking is the process by which audio is recorded to discrete tracks which can be played back as additional tracks are added. The layering of tracks allows each instrument to be treated individually to evoke the best sound possible. This allows a maximum of flexibility for mixing and effecting.

Live multi-tracking is when all the instruments perform at the same time, yet each is miked/recorded to a separate track. To reduce leakage between instruments this method will often employ additional acoustically isolated chambers or the creation subspaces.

Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and in most cases groups will use a combination of both approaches.

Often the primary method to be used is determined by the type of music. For example, jazz or any other improvisation-based music requires the use of live multi-tracking so musicians can react to each others performance as it happens.

Groups may want to decide on an tracking approach before arriving at the studio, but we can offer qualified suggestions on which methods to use.

For example, a group may want to record bass guitar and drums at the same time, but in order for the musicians to "feel" the song they want to hear guitar and vocals. Yet the guitarist insists on having the luxery of miking their amp in the big live room with liberal use of overdubbing to achieve the hottest solos.

In such a case, the guitar and vocals can be set up in separate adjoining rooms with their signals patched into to the headphone monitors. Their recorded tracks can serve as a song reference for multi-track layering of each additional part.

Then when it comes time for the guitarist's solo, they can take up as much space, attention, and tracks as they want to achieve their best performance and sound. And, the reference track can be deleted.