Apple GarageBand '08 - Manual (Page 45)

Chapter 5 Tutorial 3: Recording Vocals and Musical Instruments 45
Choosing the Input Source
You can choose the input source for a Real Instrument track. If you have more than one
input source (an instrument or an audio interface with multiple channels, for example),
you must choose the correct input source before you play or record Real Instruments.
To choose the input source for a Real Instrument track:
m In the Track Info pane for the track, choose the source from the Input Source pop-up
menu.
Note: Some audio interfaces have more than one input channel. If you are connecting
a microphone or instrument using an audio interface, be sure to choose the correct
channel in the Input Source menu. Choose a mono source if your microphone or
instrument is connected by a single cable, and choose a stereo source if it is connected
by a pair of stereo cables.
Adjusting the Recording Level
You can adjust the recording (input) level for a Real Instrument track. The recording
level controls the level of the signal coming from the instrument or microphone. In
general, you’ll get the best results if you set the recording level as high as possible
without causing clipping or distortion.
To adjust the recording level, do one of the following:
 If the instrument or microphone has a volume control, adjust the volume control on
the device.
 If the instrument or microphone is connected to an audio interface, adjust the
volume control on the audio interface.
 In the Track Info pane, drag the Recording Level slider left to lower the input volume
for the selected channel, or drag it right to raise the input volume.
Note: You can’t control the volume of some audio interfaces and other devices from
GarageBand. If the Volume slider in the Track Info pane is dimmed, you cannot adjust
the input volume in GarageBand.
 Select the Automatic Level Control checkbox to have GarageBand automatically
lower the input level to avoid clipping, and raise the level to avoid excessive noise
when recording.
Note: If “On with Feedback Protection” is chosen in the Monitor pop-up menu, you
cannot select Automatic Level Control.
You can also add and adjust effects for a Real Instrument track. For information about
using effects, see Chapter 9, “Tutorial 7: Mixing and Adding Effects.”