How do you make a backing track?

Answer 1

Here's what you need:

1: MIDI File sound module

2: MIDI sequencing program

3: MIDI keyboard controller

4: PC, MAC or IOS tablet (iPad, Galaxy etc)

5: USB or MIDI Interface

6: Professional and licensed MIDI Files

7: Audio Interface

Connect a MIDI File sound module (like the Merish PLUS) or a MIDI synthesizer to a computer, iPad or other tablet via a MIDI interface like the Edirol UM and many other affordable interfaces. These are available at your local musical instrument store.

The other part set up is a good MIDI sequencing program.

For MAC, we recommend checking out Logic Express, Logic Studio or Cubase. For PC, try Sonar or Cubase. Mac users who want to do serious work with MIDI should not use Garageband. It's free but lacks the essential editing windows (like an event editor, score page) needed to create and tweak a MIDI File. Most sequencing programs include generous sound sample libraries. Use these to compliment sounds from a MIDI module or use them on their own.

If you are using a MIDI sound module, then adding a MIDI controller keyboard will make entering MIDI data and playing in parts a breeze.

The Audio Interface is the lifeline between your MIDI gear and your sequencing program. There are lots of good audio interfaces including M-Audio, Fireface, Roland Quad Capture, M-Box, Avid and many others.

Load the MIDI File into the sequencing program and make the appropriate edits. Most sequencing programs will bounce the file to a stereo audio file (MP3, WAV, AAC etc), otherwise open a program like Audacity or Soundforge and record in real time to the audio program. Before recording, check the sound levels are good. After recording, normalize to 98% (just below clipping) and keep 2 seconds of silence at the top and tail of the audio file.

Save the file first as a WAV file. if you want to save as an MP3, do so after saving the WAV file and save at 320kbps CBR 9Constant Bit Rate). Some audio programs include VBR (Variable Bit Rate) but do not use this setting. it will result in a poorer quality audio file.

Where to get your gear?

MIDI Files: You get legal and licensed MIDI Files guaranteed to work and already formatted to 'Load & Play' in any General MIDI device.

MIDI File Player: Professional quality MIDI File Players are available and recommended if you want to use MIDI sounds as part of the recording. Do a web search for 'midi mp3 backing track player' to view the current models available by various companies.

Software: For Logic, visit the Apple store. For Cubase, Sonar, go to their respective web sites for a dealer in your area.

MIDI Keyboard Controller and USB/MIDI interface - From your local music store.

Audio Interface - from your local Music store hi-tech/studio section