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

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

In this exclusive episode of Inside the Recording Studio, we sit down with the legendary recording engineer and producer, Adam Mosley, to take a deep dive into his illustrious career. Join hosts Chris and Jody as they explore Adam's journey through the world of music production, from his early days in the studio to working with some of the biggest names in the industry.

Discover the stories behind the scenes as Adam shares his experiences of recording and producing iconic albums. Learn about his unique approach to capturing the perfect sound, his favorite gear and techniques, and the creative processes that have shaped his remarkable career.

In this candid conversation, Adam reflects on the challenges and triumphs he has encountered along the way, offering invaluable insights and advice for aspiring audio engineers and producers. From his work with legendary artists to his contributions to groundbreaking projects, gain a rare glimpse into the life and career of one of the most respected figures in the recording industry.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in audio production, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom. Don't miss out on this fascinating journey through the recording career of Adam Mosley – tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and be inspired by one of the best in the business!

Adam Mosley, Recording engineer, Music production, Iconic albums, Audio engineering career

Chris and Jody divide and conquer the subjects of corrective EQ and sweetening EQ. What is the definition of each? Where do we approach each style of EQ? What is the process value of each style of EQ? All this is discussed and more. Don't forget the Friday Finds that we found this week for you!

Chris and Jody weigh in on the concept of knowing music theory. Should a producer, a musician, a mix engineer know music theory? Will it help or hinder the situation in the studio? How about the writing process? Are there pitfalls to dealing with artists that don't know music theory? It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody (with their kinda fun podcast) sit down to chat with songwriter, producer, VI maker extraordinaire - Mike Greene. You've likely heard Mike's handiwork on "bad" TV shows or some artist's records. Or maybe you've heard of his VI company Realitone. We go deep with Mike and find out what makes him tick. Plus we learn a rather interesting connection between him and David Bowie. Find out what we learned!

Chris and Jody open up some windpipes on the methods of learning how to hear what compression is doing. Covering the controls of a normal compressor, to extreme settings that should really accentuate what it's doing to a signal. Plus a few more little tricks to the trade that we've used to learn to hear what a compressor is doing and use it to your advantage. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody delve into the depths of side chaining. We discuss what it is, and various ways it can improve your mix. Plus what types of methods we make use of to effectively incorporate side chaining to create movement and change in a mix.

Chris and Jody are filling the pool with warmth. Diving into the subject of how to get warmth in your mixes. Should you get warmth in your mixes and what methods do we use to achieve that warmth. From mics, to plugins, to mojo, we cover it in here. Put your swim suit on and follow along.

Chris and Jody unfold the murky waters of Mid-Side EQ. Talking about where concept stems from and what is different about now in the modern DAW world. We explain the nuts and bolts of how it works in stereo. Why we might want to use Mid Side EQ and some possible pitfalls from using it. We even talk about some of our favorite plugins to use for EQing Mid Side situations. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody discuss their methods of file management and choosing how to deliver them to clients. What files go where, what method of delivery works best. Do we leave the storage of sessions on the client or do we take charge? We also talk about how we store files. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody involve the incredible Reuben Cohen in an amazing interview. We trek thru his early beginnings and dive into multiple stories. The eye on the prize about being a mastering engineer. How he started out building a business and mastering some of the biggest songs in the last decade. What gear can he not live without. Plus what did have to do with Metallica, Pharrell, Distinto, and movie soundtracks? Don't forget our Friday Finds. It's all here. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody jump into the pool of the Bricasti M7. A deep dive into one of the most iconic modern reverb units in music recording history. They tackle the history and timing of the M7; like who made it and where they came from. Plus do their abnormal review of the controls that make the unit work, and discuss some of the favorite uses of the M7 reverb. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Unlock the secrets to capturing the perfect vocal sound in our latest episode of Inside the Recording Studio! Join hosts George and Jody as they delve into the art and science of choosing the right vocal mic path for your song, helping you achieve professional-quality recordings every time.

In this episode, we explore the critical factors that influence your choice of vocal microphone and signal chain. From the singer's voice type and the song's genre to the desired tone and recording environment, we guide you through the decision-making process to ensure you select the ideal setup for your project.

Discover the nuances of different microphone types, including dynamic, condenser, and ribbon mics, and how their unique characteristics can enhance or detract from your vocal recording. We also discuss the importance of preamps, compressors, and EQ settings in shaping your vocal sound, providing practical tips for dialing in the perfect tone.

Learn how to match your mic and signal path to the specific needs of your song, whether you're aiming for a crisp, modern pop vocal or a warm, vintage-style performance. Hear real-world examples and expert advice on troubleshooting common issues and making the most of your recording equipment.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or a budding engineer, this episode offers invaluable insights and hands-on advice to help you make informed decisions and capture stunning vocal recordings. Don't miss out on this essential guide to choosing the right vocal mic path – tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and elevate your vocal production skills!

Vocal mic selection, Recording vocals, Microphone types, Vocal signal chain, Audio engineering tips

Chris and Jody do a non-sexy look into the arena of de-essers. The specific mixing tool that few like to think about until they are in dire need of fixing sibilance in a vocal or something harsh in another instrument. How do they operate? What do they do? What are our choices for awesome de-essers? You'll have happier ears after this episode. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody plunge into the waters of getting multi-tracks prepped for doing a mix. What are the steps we take to clean up individual tracks for vocals, guitars, bass, drums, virtual instruments, orchestral instruments and more. The idea of how we get things ready for mixing and for recording engineers to give to mix engineers. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody jump into the pool of the Lexicon 224. A deep dive into one of the most iconic reverb units in music recording history. They tackle the history and timing of the 224. Plus do their abnormal review of the controls that make the unit work, and discuss some of the favorite uses of the 224 reverb. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody waltz in to the subject of how to get a mix to move and breath. What kind of techniques we use to get some life, sparkle and splashes to invigorate your mix. All in the name of being able to keep a listener's interest in the song beyond the mundane. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

compressor that was designed from the ground up to emulate a couple other super classic compressors. The end result is a compressor that became a classic in it's own right. We delve into the history, the models, and breakdown the controls. Then we explain what it's good for. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody squeeze into the subject of recording headroom. Talking about what it is and why it's important to be consciously aware of. They bring up what the ideal sweet spot of headroom is for a mix and how it is important to get right before sending a mix off for mastering. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody give a recap and rundown of the NAMM Show 2022. If you're not familiar with what NAMM is, we explain. What did we see? What did we like? Who might we have bumped into? What gear blew our minds? What did we drool over? It's all in here for the 2022 edition of the NAMM Show. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody get a sneak preview look at Neutron by iZotope. We break down the modules involved in the new version and explain the nitty gritty of how this very modern channel strip can help your mixing. Very flexible and tons of permutations mean you have the means to really dial in a mix. Mix like a star, a Neutron Star! 

Chris and Jody jump into the muddy waters of how to approach using new gear. Should you be using it on everything? Do sleigh bells belong in every song? Are you buying gear for a want or a need? All this is brought up and so much more. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

dive into the world of EQ for your electric bass tracks. We walk thru the various areas of the audio spectrum. The sub, the fundamental low, the low mids, the upper mids and air. Plus we offer up various thoughts on each area on cutting or boosting and why. Don't forget our Friday Finds and… It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Get ready to explore the future of music production with our latest episode of Inside the Recording Studio! Join hosts George and Jody as they dive into the exciting new features of Logic Pro 11, focusing on the groundbreaking AI session players that are set to revolutionize your workflow.

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at how Logic Pro 11's AI session players can elevate your music production. Discover how these intelligent virtual musicians can add realistic, dynamic performances to your tracks, saving you time and sparking your creativity.

Learn about the various instruments and styles covered by the AI session players, and how to seamlessly integrate them into your projects. Whether you need a tight drum groove, a soulful bass line, or intricate keyboard parts, Logic Pro 11's AI session players have you covered.

We also share tips for getting the most out of these advanced features, from customizing performances to matching the feel and timing of your existing recordings. See how AI can assist in creating everything from rough demos to polished, professional tracks.

Whether you're a seasoned Logic Pro user or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and hands-on advice to help you harness the power of AI in your music production. Don't miss out on this essential guide to the latest update of Logic Pro 11 – tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and take your music to the next level!

Logic Pro 11 update, AI session players, Music production tips, Logic Pro tutorial, Virtual musicians

Chris and Jody discuss what to consider when tracking vocals: How close to the mic should you get? What are the issues you may run into when not getting this right? What if the singer wants to actually hold the mic in hand? What is proximity effect? All this, plus our Friday Finds.

It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed...

Chris and Jody jump into the muddy waters of audio masking. What is it? What instruments can tend to mask each other. Things to watch out for when sifting thru a mix to find the masking. Why it's a good idea to listen and eliminate it. And finally sharing softwares that can help you "see" it. Don't forget our Friday Finds for this week and. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody delve into the idea of drum programming vs live drums. What styles are prone to each. When is it ideal to record with live drums. Things to watch out for when programming drums. Why might you want to program drums. And finally enhancing live drums with programmed drums or samples. Don't forget our Friday Finds for this week and... It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody discuss the pros and cons of layering similar instruments. We breeze thru using similar sounding synths, guitars, basses, drums and vocals. Plus we offer up various thoughts on each area on the good or bad and why. Don't forget our Friday Finds and… It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

We dive into the world of EQ for your kick drum. We walk thru the various areas of the audio spectrum. The fundamental low end, the low mids, the upper mids and the "click". Plus we offer up various thoughts on each area on cutting or boosting and why. Don't forget our Friday Finds and… It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody dive into the fray of Channel Strips vs Individual Plugins. What are the differences? What are the components that make up a channel strip? Who makes the popular emulations and the virtual modern ones? Are there pros to using channel strips and what are the cons of them? It's a good look into the workflow of treating your DAW like a console. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

For the 2nd anniversary episode (2 years and rolling!): Chris and Jody deliver on 5 ways to help enhance your acoustic guitars via EQ. We walk thru the various areas of the audio spectrum. The low end, the low mids, the upper mids and the "sheen". Plus we offer up various thoughts on each area on cutting or boosting and why. Don't forget our Friday Finds and... It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody deliver on multiple ways to help remove the "mud" from your mixes. We walk thru the various areas of the mix process. The arrangement, the dynamics, the EQ and special softwares. Plus we offer up various thoughts on each idea for reducing the "mud" and why. Don't forget our Friday Finds and... It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody involve the inimitable Adam Moseley in an amazing interview. We trek thru his early beginnings and dive into multiple stories. The eye on the prize about being a producer. How about starting out in a studio doing construction and cooking for others? What gear can he not live without. Plus what did have to do with Roxette, RUSH, KISS, and Richard Marx? Don't forget our Friday Finds. It's all here. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody take on a way to help enhance your vocal mixes. The Delay. We mention various ways to use delays, primarily ones that are not perfectly synced to enhance the way the vocal sits in a mix. Plus we offer up various types of delays to achieve cool space and effects. Don't forget our Friday Finds, cause this week there's a doozy. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Unlock the secrets to achieving a high-quality mix with our latest episode of Inside the Recording Studio! Join hosts Chris and Jody as they reveal the optimal order for mixing multitracks to ensure a polished and professional sound.

In this insightful episode, we dive into the step-by-step process of mixing, starting with the foundational elements and building up to the final polish. Discover why the order in which you mix your tracks can make a significant difference in achieving clarity, balance, and depth in your music.

We begin by exploring the importance of establishing a solid foundation with the rhythm section, focusing on drums and bass. Learn how to create a tight and cohesive groove that serves as the backbone of your mix. Next, we move on to the harmonic elements, such as guitars and keyboards, discussing how to blend them seamlessly with the rhythm section.

Vocals take center stage as we uncover techniques for making them sit perfectly in the mix, ensuring they are both present and clear. Finally, we delve into the finishing touches, including effects, automation, and final EQ adjustments, to add depth and dimension to your mix.

Whether you're a seasoned mixing engineer or just starting out, this episode offers practical advice and expert tips to help you approach mixing with confidence and precision. Don't miss out on this essential guide to mixing multitracks in the right order – tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and elevate your mixing skills to new heights.

Mixing multitracks, Professional mixing techniques, Audio production tips, Rhythm section mixing, Vocal mixing strategies

Chris and Jody discuss five different means of approaching your recordings to help get punchier mixes. Ideas brought up include the arrangement and the instruments used, dynamics and keeping them in a good ballpark. Plus ideas of EQ in the low end, saturation and not with gasoline, and phase checks. They all add up to creating a punchier mix. They all add up to creating a punchier mix. Don't forget our Friday Finds. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody discuss some abnormal ways to mic instruments and voices. What is the most inventive way to mic a guitar amp? Is there a mic that isn't meant for vocals that would work in a pinch? What about mic-ing drums with only 3 mics? All these ideas, and some way out there attempts, are brought to light in this episode. Plus the Friday Finds for this week and... It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody take on the need for getting your recording environment treated. Meaning, what kind of monitor speakers and where you should locate them in the room. What is the mirror test? Are foam panels a good idea? What kind of material should you use and where to put in on the walls and ceiling. Properly treating your room will lead to better recordings and mixes. Plus a supersized Friday Find. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody jump aboard the Mini Moog D bandwagon. Or rather talk about the history of the Mini Moog and how it came to be. The breakdown of what goes into a Mini Moog, the idea of what made it special and unique. The ground it broke and the path it created. What artists were known to have used it and help make it popular. Plus Friday Find and... It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody take in a listener's request to talk about IRs. Those pesky things known as Impulse Responses. What is an impulse response? Why would we want to use one or more of them? How do we use them? Who makes them? All of this and more gets unpacked in this episode. Plus our Friday Finds. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody do a deep dive into the world of the iZotope NeoVerb reverb plugin. A little UI review, a dash of uses, a pinch of what makes it unique, and a whole lot of nerd, equals a romp of a look into one of the new reverb plugins added to the history of music recording. Plus there's our Friday Finds of the week. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody take in the inimitable CJ Vanston with an amazing interview. We track thru his early beginnings and skip thru multiple stories. Mindset about being a musician. How about turning down a major artist over a beard? What gear can he not live without. Plus what did have to do with Spinal Tap? Don't forget our Friday Finds. It's all here. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody take a good look at using Control Surfaces. We give you the rundown on some of the history of control surfaces. We also discuss some of the different types of control surfaces there are and when we have used various ones. We talk about various reasons for and against them. We even give our picks for control surfaces that we like. Plus there's our Friday Finds of the week. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody start the new year talking about guitar strings. Kick the new year off right and change those strings, but what gauge of string should you consider? How does it affect playability? Does the string type make a difference? How does this affect the sound when I'm recording? What about intonation, string height, and basic string care should you be thinking about? We cover all of this and more. Plus get our Friday Finds of the week. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody do a deep dive into the world of the Lexicon 480L reverb unit. A little history, a dash of uses, and a whole lot of nerd, equals a romp of a look into one of the most famous reverb units in the history of music recording. Plus there's our Friday Finds of the week. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Dive into the art of captivating your audience with our latest episode of Inside the Recording Studio! Join hosts Chris and Jody as they explore innovative ways to keep a listener's interest using the strategic use of silence and creative methods to fill that silence within an arrangement.

In this episode, we uncover the powerful impact of silence in music production, revealing how intentional pauses can add tension, anticipation, and emotional depth to your tracks. Discover the psychological and musical benefits of incorporating silence, and learn how to use it effectively to enhance your arrangements.

But that's not all – we also delve into various techniques to fill silence in a way that maintains interest and enhances the overall listening experience. From subtle ambient sounds and atmospheric textures to rhythmic elements and dynamic effects, we explore a range of methods to keep your listeners engaged.

Learn how to balance silence and sound, creating moments of contrast that draw attention and evoke a stronger emotional response. Chris and Jody share practical tips and creative strategies to help you master the delicate interplay between silence and music.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode offers invaluable insights into the nuanced art of using silence to captivate your audience and elevate your music production skills. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and discover how to harness the power of silence and sound to create compelling, dynamic arrangements.

Using silence in music, Captivating listeners, Music arrangement techniques, Audio production tips, Enhancing listener engagement

eper look at using reverb. We give you the math on how to figure out the milliseconds you need for your reverbs. We also discuss some of the different types of reverbs there are and when we might use various ones. We dive into various ways we can get creative with using reverbs. We even give our goto favorite reverbs. Plus there's our Friday Finds of the week.

Chris and Jody dive into the super un-sexy world of needing to backup, discussing the pros and cons of various backup methods. Talking about what types of backups they do and how they keep track of them. There's also the horror stories of losing data. It's a real tear jerker. Plus there's our Friday Finds of the week. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.

Chris and Jody take a deeper look at using delay. We give you the math on how to figure out the milliseconds you need for your delays. We also discuss the different types of delays there are and when we might use various ones. We dive into various ways we can get creative with using delays. We even cover why knowing the math is important when using hardware units. Plus there's our Friday Finds of the week. It's also not unlikely that there will be some nonsense discussed.