"Sound on sound" is a technique in audio recording that involves layering multiple recordings on top of each other to create a richer and more complex sound. It is a form of analog tape-based recording where new sounds are recorded while playing back previously recorded material.
In traditional analog recording, sound on sound is achieved by recording a performance onto a track of a tape machine and then playing back that track while recording a new performance onto another track. This process allows the new performance to be recorded along with the previously recorded material. The result is a layered sound where multiple parts or instruments can be heard simultaneously.
The term "sound on sound" also refers to the resulting effect of the technique. When different parts are recorded on separate tracks and played back together, they blend and create a cohesive mix. This technique has been widely used in music production, especially in the early days of recording when multitrack recording was not readily available.
With the advent of digital recording technology, sound on sound techniques can now be achieved using software and virtual recording systems, allowing for greater flexibility and ease of use. However, the term "sound on sound" still retains its historical association with the analog tape-based approach to layering recordings.