song key, it's important to be sure you are performing a song at the correct themo before beginning formal recording. Fast tempos can add energy to a recording but can also prevent the players from getting the most out of every note. Run test recordings and look for problems.

A good tip off that the tempo is wrong is if one or more of the players is having trouble keeping time. If they are drifting around the time, there is a good chance they are hearing the song slightly slower or faster. It can be a big help to have a metronome for this so you can be sure exactly how much you are adjusting the tempo, even if you are not using a click on the final recording.

It can also be helpful to test existing recordings of a song with a program like the Amazing Slowdowner which allow you to keep the pitch the same but speed up or slow down a recording.

Also see..

• Tama RW105 Rhythm Watch Programmable Metronome
• Peterson BodyBeat BB-1 Pulsing Metronome
• The Amazing Slowdowner