Apple Logic Express 8 - Manual (Page 373)

Chapter 14 Recording in Logic Express 373
Using Software Monitoring
The Software Monitoring function allows you to monitor incoming audio through any
effects plug-ins that are inserted into an armed audio channel. Audio inputs must be
assigned on the record-enabled tracks for software monitoring functionality.
The effect plug-ins are monitored but not recorded. This can be useful during a
recording session. As an example: During vocal recording, many singers prefer hearing
their performance with a little reverb, but the track is recorded dry (without effects).
To monitor a track with effect plug-ins during recording:
1 Turn on the Logic Express > Preferences > Audio > Devices > Core Audio > Software
Monitoring option.
Note: No monitoring of any kind will occur if this option is switched off for the
currently active audio hardware.
2 Insert the desired effect into the audio channel, arm the track, and start recording.
The effect will be part of the monitor mix, but will not be recorded.
Auto Input Monitoring
If Auto Input Monitoring is switched on, you will only hear the input signal during the
actual recording—before and afterwards, you’ll hear the previously recorded audio on
the track, while the sequencer is running. This helps you to judge punch in and punch
out points when punch recording. If Auto Input Monitoring is switched off, you will
always hear the input signal. Auto Input Monitoring, when switched on, also allows you
to hear the input source when Logic Express is stopped, making it easy to set levels.
To switch auto input monitoring on, do one of the following:
m Choose Options > Audio > Auto Input Monitoring from the main menu bar (or use the
Toggle Auto Input Monitoring key command).
m Control-click the Record button in the Transport, and turn on the Auto Input
Monitoring setting in the pop-up menu.
There are a couple of circumstances that can be problematic when using auto input
monitoring with record-enabled tracks:
 Singers cannot hear themselves while Logic Express is in play or record mode. All
they can hear is the old recording. Switch off Auto Input Monitoring in this situation.
 The track cannot be heard, even though Logic Express is not in record mode. Switch
on Auto Input Monitoring to hear audio on the track.
Depending on the situation, both options can be useful. Normally, Auto Input
Monitoring will be turned on, and only switched off in specific circumstances.