DI Re-amping – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Recording Techniques Glossary

I. What is DI Re-amping?

DI Re-amping, short for Direct Injection Re-amping, is a technique used in audio recording and production to enhance the quality and flexibility of recorded guitar or bass tracks. It involves taking a previously recorded direct signal from an instrument, such as an electric guitar or bass, and sending it back through an amplifier or effects chain to re-record the signal. This process allows for greater control over the tone and sound of the instrument, as well as the ability to experiment with different amplifier settings and effects after the initial recording has taken place.

II. How does DI Re-amping work?

The process of DI Re-amping begins by recording the direct signal of an instrument, typically using a DI (Direct Injection) box or interface. This direct signal is then saved as a clean, unprocessed audio file. To re-amp the signal, the audio file is played back through a re-amping device, such as a re-amp box or dedicated re-amping amplifier, which then sends the signal through a guitar amplifier or effects chain. The re-amped signal is then captured using a microphone and recorded onto a new track, allowing for further manipulation and processing.

III. When is DI Re-amping used in recording?

DI Re-amping is commonly used in recording when a musician wants to experiment with different amplifier tones or effects after the initial recording session has taken place. It is also useful in situations where the original recording did not capture the desired tone or sound, allowing for a second chance to achieve the desired result. Additionally, DI Re-amping can be used to add depth and dimension to a recorded track by layering different amplifier tones and effects.

IV. What equipment is needed for DI Re-amping?

To set up DI Re-amping in a recording session, several pieces of equipment are required. These include a DI box or interface to capture the direct signal of the instrument, a re-amping device such as a re-amp box or dedicated re-amping amplifier, a guitar amplifier or effects chain, a microphone to capture the re-amped signal, and appropriate cables to connect the various components. Additionally, a digital audio workstation (DAW) or recording software is needed to playback the direct signal and record the re-amped signal.

V. What are the benefits of DI Re-amping in recording?

DI Re-amping offers several benefits in recording, including the ability to experiment with different amplifier tones and effects without the need to re-record the instrument. This flexibility allows for greater creativity and customization in the recording process, as well as the ability to achieve a desired tone or sound that may not have been captured during the initial recording session. Additionally, DI Re-amping can save time and resources by avoiding the need to set up and mic multiple amplifiers during the initial recording.

VI. How to set up DI Re-amping in a recording session?

To set up DI Re-amping in a recording session, follow these steps:
1. Record the direct signal of the instrument using a DI box or interface.
2. Save the direct signal as a clean, unprocessed audio file.
3. Connect the re-amping device, such as a re-amp box or dedicated re-amping amplifier, to the output of your audio interface.
4. Connect the re-amping device to a guitar amplifier or effects chain using appropriate cables.
5. Set up a microphone to capture the re-amped signal from the amplifier.
6. Playback the direct signal from your DAW or recording software through the re-amping device and amplifier.
7. Adjust the amplifier settings and effects to achieve the desired tone or sound.
8. Capture the re-amped signal with the microphone and record it onto a new track in your DAW.
9. Experiment with different amplifier tones and effects to enhance the recorded track.