Comping
Definition
Short for "composite recording." The process of assembling the best performance from multiple recorded takes into a single, seamless track. Standard practice for vocals, guitar solos, and any performance recorded in multiple passes.
In Simple Terms
Picking the best moments from multiple takes and stitching them into one perfect performance. The verse from take two, the chorus from take five, the bridge from take eight — assembled into what sounds like a single, flawless pass.
Sources & Verification
- Owsinski, B. — The Recording Engineer's Handbook (4th ed., comping chapter)Bobby Owsinski Media Group, 2017
- Huber, D. M. & Runstein, R. E. — Modern Recording Techniques (10th ed.)Routledge, 2023
Last verified: 2026-05-05