ONLINE SESSIONS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How should I prepare my playbacks before uploading them to you ? Which format do you prefer ?

The best for me is a standard CD playable 16 bits mono or stereo file (.wav or .aiff). If you can add a precount click at the beginning, it's better but not a must. Wav or Aiff files are heavier than mp3's but they are the best way to avoid any kind of non linearity issues found in most mp3 coding softwares. Working directly on a .wav playback guarantees that my tracks will sound exactly the same in my studio than in yours, once they are imported and synchronised on your original playback. You can also upload mp3's but be aware that there are a few precise extra steps you need to go through to avoid any further sync problems. Please read on...

How will I synchronize your tracks in my project ?

All the delivered tracks will start at 0:00:00:00 of the playback I received from the client.
For example, if a guitar solo only takes place in the middle of the song, the guitar solo track will still start at 0:00:00:00 of the playback, even if there's nothing on that track till the solo.
Just drag all my tracks with your playback to 0:00:00:00 of your session, or drag my tracks to 0:00:00:00 of your playback wherever your playback is located in your session, and everything will be in sync.

IMPORTANT:If you are uploading an .mp3 as your reference track, please note that most mp3 conversion programs (iTunes etc..) add approximately 20ms to the beginning of the new converted mp3 file compared with the original file. You can fix it in your editing program before sending it by comparing the two files (the original and the converterd mp3 file), or you can use the precount clicks that are at the beginning of my tracks to align my tracks to your song visually. In any case I will be happy to help you.

The upload of my file seems to take a long time. Is that normal ?

Uploading a 50M .wav file can take from a few minutes up to one hour depending on your connection speed. You can minimze the upload window and still use your computer while it uploads in the background. In any case, once the upload is completed, you will get a 'upload completed' message. Even if nothing seems to move, be patient, it's uploading !

How will I download your guitar tracks ?

You will receive an URL (http://www.fabtranzer.com/yourname ), as well as a login and password to access your personal password protected dowloand area. All the tracks will be listed, just select them and use the "save as" or "download linked file" of your browser. There are slightly different download commands depending which browser you use, I will assist you if you need me to.

Is my computer compatible with your tracks ?

I can deliver in a wide range of formats to adapt to most requirements.
If you have any doubt, let me know what kind of system you are working with and I will adapt my files to it.

How do I import your tracks in my audio software ?

You import my tracks the same way you would import any audio material.
I am glad to assist you in that process if you need help.

Mac or PC ?

It doesn't matter as the common audio files formats are cross-platform (they will work on Mac and on PC).
.wav files for example will open in most audio applications.

I don't have permanent access to internet. How can I work with you?

You can download my tracks from virtually anywhere, anytime around the clock: internet cafe, hotel lobby, airport, public library, office(!), friend's computer etc...
Just burn the downloded files onto a CD or a DVD, or put them onto a portable Hard drive and carry them to your studio. Of course, we can also work together using postmail.

Why can't I open 24 bits audio files in Windows Media Player, Itunes nor GarageBand?

Most consumer audio softwares are not yet 24 bits compatible. You'll need to convert the files to 16 bits if you want to preview them outside your usual music recording software (Logic Audio, Cubase, Digital Performer, Nuendo, Cubase, Protools, Cakewalk etc...)
Again, if you intend to use my iStudio tracks in a 16 bits environment, let me know and I will be happy to deliver the files directly in 16 bits, so that you don't have to convert anything.

What about added effects?

When effects are required, I usually record effects on separate tracks. For a guitar solo with a stereo panning delay, for example, you will then have three tracks:
one mono track with the dry solo and a separate stereo channel with only the effects for that solo.
That technique allows maximum flexibility and leaves all options open for the mix.
You can dial the desired effects level during the mixdown, or request other effects if you just changed your mind, or replace them yourself with your own effects, or just erase them and keep the dry amp sound!

What about re-amping?

On request, I can record a separate, non-amplified, dry electric guitar track through a direct box, for you to reamp in your favourite amp or amp modelizer plug in.

What if I don't like your tracks?

Please request some demos of my work before booking me to make sure what I do is what you are looking for.

After I submit the preview, if you want me to change things or redo things in another way, just let me know. I always appreciate as many stylistic indications as possible, it saves time and allows me to have a clear idea of what you would like to hear. We can do up to three revisions for a project, it usually takes less than that to nail it.

What about delivery times?

I usually respond to a quote request within 2 hours or less.
Depending on my schedule and your deadline, I will give you a delivery date with the quote.