How to Double Track a Clean Guitar

So, you've got this clean guitar part you want to record, but you want it to sound full and rich, almost like a chorus of guitars harmonizing together. Double tracking is one of those recording techniques that can take your sound from basic to brilliant. It’s a trick used by many pro musicians, and you don't need a fancy studio to pull it off. Let’s break down how you can double track a clean guitar and get that lush, expansive sound you're after.

The Basics of Double Tracking

Double tracking is a pretty straightforward concept. Essentially, you record the same guitar part twice and layer them on top of each other in your mix. The slight variations in timing and dynamics between the two performances create a rich, full sound that can add depth and texture to your recordings.

But why not just copy and paste the same recording onto another track? Well, that sounds like a good idea, but it doesn't quite work. When you duplicate a track, you don’t get any of the natural differences that occur when a human plays the same part twice. Those tiny inconsistencies are what make double tracking so effective. They add a sense of space and width to your sound.

So, grab your guitar and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to do this.

Setting Up Your Recording Environment

Before you hit that record button, it’s important to set up your environment for success. You don’t need a million-dollar studio, but a few key things will help.

• Quiet Space: Find a spot with minimal background noise. If you can’t, try recording at a time when the environment is quieter.
• Good Monitoring: Use headphones or monitors that allow you to hear the nuances in your playing. This helps with precision and consistency between takes.
• Proper Mic Placement: If you’re mic’ing an amp or an acoustic guitar, experiment with mic placement to find the sweet spot that captures the sound you want.

Once you’ve got a good spot, you’re ready to start laying down some tracks.

Choosing the Right Gear

When it comes to double tracking, the gear you choose can make a significant difference in the final sound. Let's talk about a few options.

Guitars and Strings

The type of guitar you use will heavily influence your sound. For clean guitar parts, a guitar with single-coil pickups, like a Fender Stratocaster, can give you that crisp, clear sound. Humbuckers, on the other hand, provide a warmer, thicker tone. Choose strings that complement your guitar’s natural tone. Lighter strings can offer more sparkle, while heavier strings provide more sustain and depth.

Amps and Effects

If you’re using an amp, consider how it interacts with your guitar. For clean tones, you might want an amp with a lot of headroom. Effects can add layers of interest; a touch of reverb or delay can give your tracks a spacious feel. But remember, less is often more. You want to enhance, not overwhelm.

Recording Software

Your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is where all the magic happens. Whether you're using Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton, or any other software, get comfortable with the basics of recording and editing tracks. If you’re new to this, don’t worry—most DAWs have plenty of tutorials online to get you up to speed.

Playing It Right: Consistency is Key

The heart of double tracking lies in your playing. Consistency is essential. You want both tracks to sound like one cohesive performance, so pay attention to timing, dynamics, and phrasing.

• Timing: Use a metronome or click track to keep your timing in check. It’s crucial that both takes are as tight as possible.
• Dynamics: Try to match the intensity and attack of your playing between takes. Listen back to your first take when recording the second.
• Phrasing: Make sure the notes are articulated the same way in both takes.

It might take a few tries to get it right, but that’s okay. Even the pros don’t nail it on the first go. Patience is your friend here.

Recording Your Tracks

Once you’re ready to record, set up separate tracks in your DAW for each take. This allows you to adjust each track individually later on. Record your first take, then move on to the second, keeping everything you practiced in mind.

One thing to consider is using slightly different settings for each take. For instance, you might use a different pickup or slightly alter your amp’s EQ settings. This can add some nice subtle differences that enhance the overall sound.

Editing and Mixing

After recording, it’s time to put the pieces together. This is where your DAW really shines. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your double-tracked parts:

• Panning: Pan each track slightly to the left and right. This creates a stereo effect that makes the sound feel more spacious.
• EQ: Use EQ to carve out a space for each track in the mix. You can cut some frequencies on one track and boost them on the other to prevent them from clashing.
• Compression: Apply compression to even out the dynamics and make the tracks sit better in the mix. Be careful not to overdo it, as it can squash the natural sound of your guitar.
• Reverb and Delay: These effects can add depth, but use them sparingly. Too much can muddy your mix.

It’s a lot like sculpting. You’re chiseling away at the rough parts until you find the polished gem inside.

Experimenting with Layers

Now that you’ve got your double-tracked guitar sounding great, why stop there? Experiment with adding more layers or different guitar parts to create a fuller arrangement.

Try adding a third track with a different rhythm or a harmony line. This can really add complexity and make your track stand out. Just remember, more isn’t always better. Each layer should serve a purpose and complement the others.

Using Riffhard for Mastering Metal Techniques

If you’re looking to refine your technique or dive deeper into metal guitar playing, Riffhard is a fantastic resource. We offer lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists, covering everything from rhythm techniques to intricate lead parts. Whether you're into djent, deathcore, or anything in between, you’ll find something to take your skills to the next level.

Our platform offers a bi-weekly lesson plan, The Shredule, and over 150 video lessons that you can tackle at your own pace. Plus, our custom metronome and interactive player can help you perfect your timing and technique, making double tracking and other advanced techniques easier to master.

Final Thoughts

Double tracking a clean guitar can breathe new life into your recordings, giving them depth and richness. With some practice and patience, you’ll be crafting lush guitar landscapes in no time. And remember, if you’re looking to sharpen your skills and learn from the pros, Riffhard is here to help you explore the nuances of metal guitar playing. Dive into our lessons and see how you can enhance your sound!