Ok. I have been trying to use the automation function for volume balancing during the mix down process of my recordings. I set the track to write enabled and i set the automation to volume. Nothing is happening to the volume of the recordings to help level them. Am I missing out on a step? Does it have to be set to write while the recording is taking place? Someone help me please.

Hi Michael-

In general, recording, automation, and the mix down process are three separate things entirely. So no, you do not need to set the automation on "write" while recording nor is it something that happens during mix down. Some programs are an exception to this (the program Reason must have the record function on to write automation). Mix down is something that happens when you are 100% satisfied with your song, or just want to cut a demo.

Your missing step is after you are done recording. Set the automation on "write" for whichever specific track you want to adjust the level on. For the programs I know (Pro Tools, Nuendo/Cubase), you can then adjust the levels two different ways. While the song is playing , you can move the fader up/down for the specific track you want to adjust. Then you can stop playback and change the automation to "read" which will tell the program to playback your new or existing automation.

The second way: Look at the automation you just created by clicking on a "+" or "->" sign on that specific track in the project/editing layout. Here you can select Volume amongst other things and you can edit what you just did or create additional automation with the song either stopped or playing. From my experience, all pro software lets you adjust automation either real time or with a series of lines.

I hope this helps, if not just shout at the computer. Buuut... that doesn't always work.

P.S. - Automation is not something the computer automatically does to your levels without your input. You need to "write" what the computer will later "read" aka "automate". If you are looking for something to automatically adjust/limit your levels, you can try using and adjusting the numbers on a compressor or limiter. Buuuut... you probably already knew that.

good luck!

If I am reading this correctly, and without knowledge of what program you are using, you generally need to enable the "Read" function. This should be located next to the "Write" function. Enabling "Read" will allow the automation to be followed.

Hope this helps.