Inside The Recording Studio

Unlock the Secret to Punchy Drums: Master Dual Drum Busses

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive into a powerful mixing technique for drums—setting up two separate drum busses to take your drum mix to the next level. Specifically, we’ll cover how to use one bus for shell-style drums (kick, snare, toms) and a second bus for metal-style drums (hi-hats, ride, cymbals).

If you’ve ever struggled to get clarity and punch from your drum recordings, this episode is for you. We’ll break down:

• Why Two Drum Busses?: Discover the benefits of splitting your drum kit into two busses—how it allows for greater control over the dynamics, EQ, and processing of the different types of drums, from heavy, punchy kicks to shimmering cymbals.
• Setting Up the Shell Drum Bus: Learn how to treat your shell-style drums (kick, snare, toms) as a unified group, from EQ and compression settings to how much low-end punch and midrange power to dial in.
• Processing the Metal Drum Bus: We'll guide you through processing your hi-hats, rides, and cymbals separately, emphasizing top-end sheen, clarity, and space without overwhelming the mix.
• Balancing the Two Busses: Once both busses are dialed in, we’ll discuss how to balance them for maximum impact in your mix, ensuring that your drums sit perfectly in your track without competing frequencies.
• Advanced Techniques: Explore creative options like parallel compression and reverb settings that are bus-specific, enhancing the separation and power of your drum elements.

Whether you’re working on a dense rock mix or a more spacious, dynamic track, this episode will help you achieve a clean, balanced, and powerful drum sound. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and revolutionize how you mix drums!

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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

Compression Decoded: Transform Your Recording Hearing Skills Now

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, we break down the art of hearing compression in your recordings—specifically focusing on how compression affects the sound of a brass snare drum using Logic's Platinum Compressor.

Compression can be a tricky tool to master, especially when it comes to subtle changes in dynamics. Join us as we discuss:

• Understanding Compression: We start by explaining how compression works on an instrument like a snare drum, particularly a brass snare, and how it shapes the attack, sustain, and release of the sound.
• Using Logic's Platinum Compressor: Learn how to dial in the right settings on Logic’s versatile Platinum Compressor to hear the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) differences. From threshold to ratio, attack, and release, we guide you through the parameters to tweak for maximum effect.
• Listening Techniques: Not sure what you should be listening for? We break down key listening tips so you can learn to hear compression as it smooths out transients, tightens up dynamic range, and gives the snare its distinctive punch.
• Creative vs. Transparent Compression: Discover the difference between using compression to subtly enhance your mix and using it as a creative tool to completely reshape the sound of an instrument.

Whether you're a beginner looking to understand compression or a seasoned producer fine-tuning your ear, this episode will help you harness the power of compression on your drum recordings. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and start making more intentional compression decisions!

 

#Compression101, #LogicPro, #PlatinumCompressor, #BrassSnare, #AudioMixing, #MusicProduction, #SoundDesign

Revolutionize Your Sound: Advanced EQ Hacks You Need to Try Now!

In this off the beaten path episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody explore alternative ways to EQ your tracks using advanced tools like iZotope’s RX, Eventide’s SplitEQ, and Soothe 2 by Oeksound.

EQing isn’t just about boosting and cutting frequencies; with these innovative tools, you can transform the way you shape your sound. Join us as we discuss:

• EQ with RX: Discover how iZotope’s RX software, typically known for its audio repair features, can be used for precision EQ adjustments to target specific issues like harshness, resonances, or muddiness without affecting the whole mix.
• SplitEQ’s unique approach: Learn how SplitEQ breaks down your audio into transient and tonal components, allowing for surgical EQ adjustments in a way that traditional EQs can’t match. We discuss how to use this to tackle complex mix issues like separation and clarity.
• Soothe 2 for dynamic EQing: Soothe 2 is not your ordinary EQ; it dynamically reacts to problematic frequencies in real-time. We’ll dive into how this plugin can smooth out harshness, tame resonance, and give your mixes that polished, professional feel with minimal effort.
• When to use these tools: We also chat about the specific scenarios in which these plugins excel and how you can use them creatively to add depth, clarity, and dimension to your tracks without the heavy-handedness of traditional EQ methods.

Whether you’re dealing with a problematic mix or looking to take your EQing skills to the next level, this episode has you covered. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and revolutionize the way you approach EQ!

 

 

#EQTechniques, #iZotopeRX, #SplitEQ, #Soothe2, #AudioMixing, #MusicProduction, #SoundDesign, #AdvancedEQing

Recording Revolution: The Excited Fusion of Old Techniques and New Technology!

In this nostalgic yet forward-thinking episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody take a deep dive into old-school recording techniques and terminology while exploring how they can be blended with modern recording methods.

Whether you’re a veteran in the industry or just starting your audio engineering journey, this episode has something for everyone. We cover:

• Classic recording techniques: Learn about vintage methods used in legendary studios, from tape machines to analog consoles, and how these techniques shaped the sound of iconic records.
• Understanding old-school terminology: Get familiar with classic recording lingo like "overdubs," "bouncing tracks," "biasing tape," and more, and see how these terms still hold relevance today.
• Blending old with new: Discover how to mix time-honored techniques with today’s digital technology, incorporating analog warmth with modern DAWs, plugins, and virtual instruments for a unique sonic palette.
• Why both approaches matter: Chris and Jody explain why understanding both old and new techniques can give you a creative edge and help you make more informed decisions during the production process.

Whether you're a fan of analog or an advocate of digital, this episode offers invaluable insights on how to bridge the gap between vintage and modern recording to create timeless music. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and expand your sonic toolkit!

The History of James Tyler Guitars: An Exciting Deep Dive with Rich Renken

In this special episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody sit down with Rich Renken to dive deep into the world of James Tyler Guitars. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design, James Tyler Guitars have become a go-to choice for professional musicians seeking unmatched playability and tone.

Join us as Rich shares:

• The story behind James Tyler Guitars: How the brand became a leading name in the guitar world, known for pushing boundaries and delivering high-quality, custom-built instruments.
• Rich's role in the brand's growth: From working with top artists to overseeing key developments, we explore Rich’s journey with James Tyler and the brand’s ongoing evolution.
• What makes James Tyler Guitars unique: Discover the cutting-edge technology, attention to detail, and artistic vision that set these guitars apart, from their iconic neck designs to the innovative electronics and finishes.
• Insights on the future of the guitar industry: Rich shares his thoughts on where the guitar world is heading, and how James Tyler Guitars continues to lead the charge in modern guitar design.

Whether you're a guitarist, gearhead, or just a fan of great craftsmanship, this episode offers an inside look at one of the most respected brands in the guitar world. Tune in to hear from Rich Renken and get a backstage pass to the James Tyler Guitar legacy! 🎸🎶

 

#JamesTylerGuitars, #RichRenken, #GuitarCraftsmanship, #MusicGear, #GuitarDesign, #MusicProduction,

Pristine vs. Poorly Recorded Tracks: The Ultimate Producer's Guide

In this episode, Chris and Jody tackle a crucial challenge every producer faces: mixing tracks that come from poorly recorded and pristinely recorded sources. What do these terms mean, and how does the quality of the recording shape the mixing process?

 

Join us as we explore:

• What defines a poorly recorded source: Whether it's noise, distortion, bad mic placement, or room issues, we break down the characteristics of recordings that come with inherent flaws and how to recognize them.
• What makes a recording pristine: Learn how high-quality recordings—with proper mic techniques, controlled environments, and clear sound—set the foundation for a smoother mixing process.
• Our first steps for mixing each type: We reveal our go-to strategies for bringing life to poorly recorded sources, from corrective EQ and noise reduction to creative tricks that make imperfections work in your favor. On the flip side, we share how to approach pristinely recorded sources, focusing on enhancing what’s already great and letting the song’s natural beauty shine.

Whether you're cleaning up messy tracks or polishing already perfect recordings, this episode is packed with actionable tips and techniques to help you master both ends of the spectrum. Tune in and elevate your mixing skills with Inside the Recording Studio! 🎧✨

 

#Mixing, #RecordingQuality, #PoorlyRecordedTracks, #PristineRecordings, #AudioEngineering, #MusicProduction, #InsideTheRecordingStudio

Unveiling the Secrets: Is Your Mix Underproduced or Overproduced? Let's Find Out!

A thought-provoking episode where Chris and Jody dive deep into the art of production balance! This time, we’re tackling the often-debated concepts of underproduced and overproduced mixes. What do these terms really mean, and how do they impact your final sound?

Join us as we explore:

• What makes a mix underproduced: How minimal arrangements can leave a song feeling flat or incomplete, and how to identify when more layers or production elements are needed.
• What makes a mix overproduced: When too much is happening in the mix—whether it's excessive effects, over-layering, or crowded instrumentation—and how this can drown out the song’s essence.
• Our first steps in dealing with both types of mixes: Learn how we approach both underproduced and overproduced tracks to bring them back to life. From stripping things down to building them up, we share our go-to strategies for achieving the perfect production balance.

Whether you're dealing with a mix that’s too bare or one that's bursting at the seams, this episode is packed with insights on finding the sweet spot that makes your music shine. Tune in and take your productions to the next level with Inside the Recording Studio! 🎧✨

Mixing, ProductionTips, UnderproducedMix, OverproducedMix, AudioEngineering, MusicProduction

Say Goodbye to Noise! Expert Tips for Crystal Clear Audio

In this insightful episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody tackle one of the most common challenges faced by audio engineers and producers: cleaning up unwanted noise in recordings. From vocal artifacts to background hums, noise can detract from the clarity and impact of your mixes if left unchecked. Join us as we explore the four main types of audio noise—non-musical noise, vocal noise, instrument noise, and audio editing noise—and dive into practical solutions for eliminating them before the mixing stage.

Episode Highlights:

1. Understanding the Four Types of Audio Noise: We break down the four main categories of noise that can creep into your recordings. Non-musical noise, like background hums or ambient sounds, vocal noise such as breaths and mouth clicks, instrument noise including squeaks and finger slides, and audio editing noise like clicks and pops from poorly executed edits. Learn how to identify each type of noise and understand the impact they can have on your overall mix.
2. How to Clean Up Non-Musical Noise: Discover effective techniques for reducing or eliminating non-musical noise in your recordings, from HVAC hums to environmental sounds. We'll discuss the use of noise reduction software, including the popular iZotope RX suite, and explore how spectral editing can help you surgically remove noise without harming the musical content.
3. Addressing Vocal Noise: Dealing with vocal noise like breaths, sibilance, and mouth clicks is a critical step in achieving a polished vocal performance. Chris and Jody offer tips for reducing vocal noise using both software solutions and manual editing techniques. Learn how to use tools like iZotope RX's De-click, De-breath, and De-ess modules, as well as manual editing in a DAW for more precise control.
4. Cleaning Up Instrument Noise: Instrument noise, such as fret squeaks on guitars or mechanical sounds from pianos, can sometimes add character but often need taming. We'll discuss when to keep or remove these noises and how to use tools like EQ, gating, and even destructive editing to clean up tracks while preserving the musicality.
5. Eliminating Audio Editing Noise: Poor audio edits can introduce unwanted clicks, pops, or abrupt changes in sound. We'll explore best practices for avoiding editing noise, from proper crossfading to using fade-ins and fade-outs, ensuring your edits remain seamless. Learn how to identify and correct problematic edits using iZotope RX’s Click Removal or traditional DAW tools like crossfades.
6. Destructive Audio Editing vs. Non-Destructive Editing: Delve into the debate between destructive and non-destructive editing in audio restoration. We discuss when destructive editing (editing the original file) can be useful for deep noise removal, and when non-destructive editing (editing with the option to revert) might be safer. Find out which workflow suits your projects best, based on the level of noise and the complexity of the session.

Whether you’re an experienced audio engineer or just starting out, this episode provides invaluable insights and techniques for cleaning up your recordings before mixing. From software tools like iZotope RX to manual DAW workflows, we’ve got you covered. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and make sure your mixes are noise-free and professional-sounding from the start!

 

Audio noise reduction, iZotope RX tutorial, Vocal noise removal, Destructive vs. non-destructive editing, Cleaning up instrument noise, Spectral editing for noise, Click and pop removal, De-noising audio recordings, Noise cleanup techniques, Audio editing tips for clean mixes

Amp Up Your Vocals: The Ultimate Guide to Using Distortion!

In this electrifying episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive deep into the gritty world of using distortion on vocals. Distortion isn't just for guitars—when used creatively, it can add character, emotion, and intensity to vocal tracks. But how do you know when and where to apply it without overpowering your mix? Join us as we explore the ins and outs of vocal distortion, from subtle warmth to full-on sonic chaos.

 

Episode Highlights:

1. Why Use Distortion on Vocals? Discover the reasons why distortion can be a game-changer for vocals. Whether you're looking to add a touch of grit to a rock track or want to create an aggressive, in-your-face sound, Chris and Jody discuss how distortion can enhance the emotional impact of your vocals and give them a unique edge.
2. Choosing the Right Tools for the Job: Get an in-depth look at the best tools for adding distortion to vocals. The hosts explore popular plugins and hardware options, including tube screamers, overdrive pedals, and digital distortion plugins. Learn how each tool can impart different textures and tones, and how to choose the right one for your specific needs.
3. When and Where to Use Distortion on Vocals: Timing is everything when it comes to using distortion. Chris and Jody offer guidance on when to apply distortion for maximum impact, whether it's on lead vocals, background harmonies, or specific sections of a song. They also discuss scenarios where distortion might not be the best choice, helping you avoid common pitfalls that can muddy up your mix.
4. Creative Distortion Techniques: Explore a range of creative techniques for using distortion on vocals. From blending clean and distorted signals to automating distortion effects for dynamic vocal performances, the hosts share tips and tricks that will inspire you to experiment and push the boundaries of your vocal production.
5. Balancing Distortion in the Mix: Learn how to integrate distorted vocals into your mix without losing clarity and balance. Chris and Jody discuss EQ, compression, and parallel processing techniques that allow you to maintain control over distorted vocals while keeping them cohesive within the overall track.

 

Whether you're looking to add a subtle edge to your vocals or go all-in on distortion, this episode is packed with practical advice and creative inspiration. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and discover the art of using distortion on vocals to create powerful, memorable performances.

 

Vocal distortion techniques, Distortion plugins for vocals, Creative vocal processing, When to use vocal distortion, Vocal mixing tips, Overdrive for vocals, Distorted vocal effects, Balancing distortion in a mix, Vocal production tricks, Music production insights

Pitch Correction Magic: How to Achieve Natural-Sounding Vocals!

In this must-listen episode of Inside the Recording Studio, hosts Chris and Jody delve into the fascinating world of vocal pitch correction. Whether you're an experienced producer or just starting out, understanding how to use pitch correction software can make a world of difference in your vocal productions. Join us as we explore the techniques and tools that can help you achieve transparent, natural-sounding pitch adjustments in your mixes.

 

Episode Highlights:

1. The Role of Vocal Pitch Correction: Learn why pitch correction has become an essential tool in modern music production. Chris and Jody discuss the importance of maintaining a natural vocal performance while subtly correcting pitch issues to ensure your tracks sound polished and professional.
2. Techniques for Transparent Pitch Correction: Discover the art of making pitch corrections without compromising the authenticity of the vocal performance. The hosts share their expert tips on how to apply pitch correction subtly, avoiding the common pitfalls that can lead to robotic or unnatural-sounding vocals. Learn about techniques like formant shifting, note-by-note adjustments, and the importance of context in pitch correction.
3. Exploring Popular Pitch Correction Plugins: Get an overview of some of the most popular pitch correction software on the market today. Chris and Jody discuss industry-standard plugins like Auto-Tune, Melodyne, and Waves Tune, comparing their features and highlighting what makes each one unique. Whether you’re looking for real-time correction or detailed manual adjustments, you’ll gain insights into which tool might be best suited for your workflow.
4. Creative Uses of Pitch Correction: Beyond simple corrections, pitch correction software can be used creatively to shape your vocal sound. The hosts explore how artists and producers use pitch correction as an effect, from the iconic Auto-Tune sound to more subtle enhancements that add character and uniqueness to a vocal track.

 

Whether you're aiming for subtle corrections or bold, creative vocal effects, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to mastering pitch correction in your productions. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and take your vocal mixing skills to new heights!

 

Vocal pitch correction, Pitch correction techniques, Transparent pitch adjustments, Auto-Tune, Melodyne, Waves Tune, Vocal tuning plugins, Creative vocal effects, Music production tips, Vocal mixing