Postrecording

Postrecording is the phase in audio and media production that occurs after the initial performance or principal shoot, during which material is refined, expanded, and aligned with its intended context. The term encompasses a range of activities, from adding new material through overdubs to editing, synchronization with picture, and finalizing the sound for distribution. In practice, postrecording aims to improve clarity, coherence, and expressive impact while preserving the integrity of the original performance.

In music production, postrecording often involves overdubs, comping multiple takes into a single composite performance, tuning, timing adjustments, and edits to fit a desired arrangement. Producers may record additional vocal or instrumental parts, replace rough takes with cleaner ones, or add effects and automation. With digital workstations, postrecording is deeply integrated with editing, mixing, and mastering.

In film and television, postrecording covers sound post-production after filming. This typically includes Automated Dialog Replacement (ADR), Foley, background ambience, sound design, and editing to match lip-sync and on-screen events. The dialogue and effects tracks are then mixed with music and the final master to support the narrative and pacing while meeting technical standards for broadcast or cinema.

Common steps include planning and spotting to determine needs, selecting best takes, syncing to video, creating a composite track, noise reduction, equalization, compression, and dynamic control; then delivery of stems for mixing. Roles include the sound editor, ADR supervisor, Foley artist, and re-recording mixer, working with digital audio workstations and dedicated synchronization tools.