Zoom R8 Recorder

[magicbeatledel]

Hi Everyone. Does anyone have the Zoom R8 or R24 Multi-Track recording machine? I recently purchased one, along with the 'Better Zoom R8 Manual' on Amazon, and the DVD too. However, I still do not understand how the inbuilt drum machine works. I first recorded two guitar tracks, then two Vocals. However, trying to add a drum pattern is annoying. When it starts playing, It is just completely out of time with the song. Anyone know how to do this properly?
Thanks.

[TheChair]

Before recording the instruments, did you set the correct time signature and BPM for the project? If you are going to add drums AFTER, then it's essential that you use the metronome when recording. Most people assemble at least a basic rhythm track before recording other instruments.

[magicbeatledel]

Hi, How do you know the correct time signature? And how do I work out the BPM? I tried recording to a Metronome and it seemed at the wrong pace for my song and I couldnt keep time. Sorry if this sounds musically ignorant. However, I just play chords (open and Bar) and write my own songs. Cheers

[TheChair]

If you don't understand time signatures, it's pretty difficult to explain in a post on here, but it's also a fair bet that your songs are in 4/4.

The BPM is much easier. Play you music as it feels naturally, tap you foot along with the music, and while you're playing, get someone to adjust the metronome so that it's in time with your foot tapping.

Then, start again playing along and keeping in time with the metronome.

[Answerprancer]

I can't offer any advice over what The Chair had already suggested but oh boy do I want one of these :-) (And a Novation Mininova, or possibly an Arturia Minibrute). Good luck, you'll work it out.

[magicbeatledel]

Thank you very much everyone, thats a great help. One last question though. How do you get the drums to fade out at the end? Do you have to do that in mixing? Cheers