Plug It In: DI Guitar Recording Demystified
This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive into the electrifying world of recording guitar using Direct Input (DI). Whether you’re tracking an electric guitar straight into your interface or experimenting with an acoustic guitar equipped with pickups, DI recording can be a powerful, clean, and flexible option—if you know how to use it right.
From classic DI boxes to interface inputs and reamping strategies, the duo breaks down the essential gear, signal chains, and recording setup tips to get the most out of your tone. They explore the pros, the cons, and the creative uses that might surprise even seasoned engineers. Spoiler alert: it’s not just a backup plan.
Expect useful guidance, real-world anecdotes, and a few laughs along the way. And yes—as always—there’s the Friday Finds, the elusive Gold Star word, and a healthy dose of studio nonsense.
If you’ve ever wondered how to capture a guitar tone that’s flexible, clean, and ready for mixing magic, this episode’s for you. Tune in, DI in, and let Chris and Jody be your tone tour guides.
Shoutout to: StudioDevil, Redwirez, CJ Vanston, Paul Jackson Jr.
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Gear we used:
Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E
Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E
Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.
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If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com