To start a new audio recording in GarageBand, you'll typically begin by launching the application, creating a new empty project, adding an audio track, configuring your input, and then hitting the record button.
Launch GarageBand and Create a New Project
The first step to capturing your audio is getting GarageBand ready.
- Open GarageBand: Locate and click the GarageBand icon in your Dock or Applications folder.
- Create a New Project: When GarageBand launches, a project chooser window will likely appear. Click on "New Project." From the available options, select "Empty Project" and then click "Choose." This gives you a clean slate, and you won't need to worry about setting the tempo or other specific project details right away.
- Select Track Type: After choosing an empty project, a window will prompt you to choose a track type. For an audio recording (like vocals or an instrument connected via an interface), select the microphone icon (labeled "Audio"). Ensure "Input" is set to your desired input device and "Monitor" is off unless you specifically need to hear yourself through GarageBand's effects without latency issues. Click "Create."
Configure Your Audio Input
Before you start recording, it's crucial to ensure GarageBand is listening to the correct audio source.
- Select Input Device: In the track header or Smart Controls area for your newly created audio track, locate the "Input" setting. Click on it to select your microphone, audio interface, or the built-in input of your computer.
- Adjust Input Level: Speak or play into your microphone and observe the input level meter in GarageBand. Adjust the input volume using the slider next to the input selection until the signal is strong but not clipping (the meter shouldn't consistently hit the red).
- Enable Monitoring (Optional): If you wish to hear your input through GarageBand (e.g., to hear effects in real-time), click the "I" (Input Monitoring) button on the track header. Be aware that this can introduce latency, especially with built-in audio. Using headphones is highly recommended to avoid feedback loops.
Begin Recording
Once your track is set up and input levels are good, you're ready to record.
- Navigate to the Start: Click and drag the playhead (the vertical line with a triangle at the top) to the position on the timeline where you want your recording to begin.
- Activate Record Enable: Ensure your audio track is "Record Enabled." This is usually indicated by a red circle button on the track header. If it's not red, click it.
- Start Recording: Click the red "Record" button in the transport controls at the top of the GarageBand window. GarageBand will start playing, and your performance will be recorded onto the selected audio track.
- Stop Recording: Click the "Stop" button (a square icon) or press the Spacebar on your keyboard to stop recording.
Tips for a Successful Recording
- Use Headphones: Always use headphones when recording to prevent microphone bleed from your speakers into your recording and to avoid feedback when monitoring.
- Check Levels Regularly: Continuously monitor your input levels to prevent clipping, which can distort your audio.
- Practice Your Take: Do a few practice runs before hitting record to get comfortable with the timing and performance.
- Save Your Project: Don't forget to save your GarageBand project frequently to avoid losing your work (
File > Save).
For more detailed information on GarageBand features, refer to the official Apple Support GarageBand Guide.
