Inside The Recording Studio

There’s a moment every recording musician dreads: that blinking notification screaming “System Update Available.” Should you click it or keep your studio machine frozen in time? In this week’s episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody dig deep into the art and science of staying current—without crashing your creative flow. From plugin compatibility nightmares to the hidden risks of updating mid-project, they unpack what every producer, engineer, and musician should know before overhauling their studio system. You’ll hear firsthand from one host who just survived a full OS upgrade—complete with tales of backup strategies, driver drama, and the surprising benefits of starting fresh. Whether you’re rocking a Mac or PC, this episode arms you with recording setup tips and audio interface troubleshooting wisdom to keep your rig running like a pro. Chris & Jody also dive into the “clean install vs. incremental update” debate, explore when it’s actually time to wipe your drive, and share how to safeguard your home studio gear from digital disaster. Expect real-world experience, plenty of laughs, and another round of Friday Finds that just might inspire your next sonic upgrade. So before you hit that update button, hit play. Your DAW will thank you. #HomeStudioGear #RecordingSetupTips #ProAudioPodcast #MusicProductionLife #AudioInterfaceTroubleshooting #StudioUpgradeGuide #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MusicTechTalk

Mix engineers have battled this question for decades: headphones or studio monitors—who reigns supreme? In this week’s episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody slice into the science, psychology, and practicality of monitoring. Whether you’re mixing in a treated control room or a spare-bedroom studio, knowing when to trust your ears (and which ones) can make or break your mix. They start by unpacking what accuracy really means—from frequency response and stereo imaging to phase alignment. You’ll hear how different listening environments influence decisions, why headphone mixes can sound “bigger than life” yet betray you on speakers, and how monitors reveal the true midrange where most mixes live or die. Then, it’s time for some real-world recording setup tips. Expect talk about calibration, room treatment, and even some lesser-known hidden features in studio gear that can help you get a more neutral picture of your sound. The duo also touch on audio interface troubleshooting and the underrated role of gain staging in perceived mix balance. By the end, you’ll have a toolkit for knowing when to reach for headphones, when to trust your monitors, and how to balance both for consistent translation across playback systems. Naturally, there’s some humor, a little gear lust, and the ever-popular Friday Finds to top it off. Because in the end, it’s not about which tool you use—it’s about how well you listen. #mixinggeardebate #homestudiotips #recordingengineerlife #studiomonitors #headphonesmixing #proaudiotech #mixtranslation #insidetherecordingstudio

When you hit play on a track, should it sound like you — unmistakably branded with your sonic fingerprint — or should it morph seamlessly into whatever the song demands? In this week’s episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody dive headfirst into one of the most polarizing debates in audio engineering: the “signature sound” dilemma. For decades, producers and mix engineers have wrestled with the question: Is having a recognizable vibe a mark of mastery, or does it risk pigeonholing you into a single trick? Chris & Jody weigh the benefits of carving out a signature style that helps you stand out in an overcrowded market against the flexibility of becoming a sonic chameleon who adapts to every artist’s vision. Expect straight talk about industry myths, the hidden costs of always “sounding like yourself,” and why some of your favorite records do carry an engineer’s fingerprint even if you don’t realize it. This is a conversation that touches everything from home studio gear choices to recording setup tips that can push your mixes one way or another. They even uncover a few hidden features in studio gear that might be shaping your sound without you knowing it. Of course, it wouldn’t be an Inside the Recording Studio episode without a dash of humor. Whether they’re poking fun at one-trick ponies, laughing about the “magic plugin” myth, or getting sidetracked by unexpected audio interface troubleshooting stories, Chris & Jody keep it real, relatable, and relevant. And don’t miss Friday Finds, where the guys shine a spotlight on fresh tools, surprising workflows, and even a laugh or two about the gear rabbit holes we all fall into. If you’ve ever wondered whether your mixes should scream “this is me” or disappear into the artistry of the track, this episode is your permission slip to challenge your assumptions. Tune in, laugh a little, and leave with practical insight to level up your engineering game.   #HomeStudioGear, #MixingTips, #SignatureSound, #RecordingSetup, #ProAudioCommunity, #StudioGearSecrets, #MusicProductionLife, #InsideTheRecordingStudio

Part 2 of: What do Guitar Hero, blockbuster video game soundtracks, and a stack of epic TV scores all have in common? The unmistakable sound of Steve Ouimette. In this continuation episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody sit down with the guitarist and producer whose riffs have been quietly shaping your playlists, your binge-watching marathons, and maybe even your late-night gaming sessions. Steve takes us through his unlikely start in the music world and the twists and turns that led him from a young player chasing tone to one of the industry’s most in-demand session musicians. Along the way, he dishes out unforgettable stories about working behind the scenes, collaborating on major projects, and navigating the ever-evolving studio landscape. But this isn’t just a stroll down memory lane. Steve gets candid about the temptation to chase the hidden features in studio gear, why musicians obsess over the latest plugins, and when that obsession helps—or hurts—the creative process. With Chris and Jody guiding the conversation, you’ll hear sharp insights about staying productive in the studio, managing the chaos of gear options, and keeping the focus where it belongs: the music. Packed with wisdom, humor, and enough guitar-fueled energy to make you want to pick up your instrument immediately, this episode is equal parts masterclass and jam session. Whether you’re running a home studio gear setup or a full-scale production house, you’ll find nuggets of inspiration and plenty of reasons to laugh along.

What do Guitar Hero, blockbuster video game soundtracks, and a stack of epic TV scores all have in common? The unmistakable sound of Steve Ouimette. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody sit down with the guitarist and producer whose riffs have been quietly shaping your playlists, your binge-watching marathons, and maybe even your late-night gaming sessions. Steve takes us through his unlikely start in the music world and the twists and turns that led him from a young player chasing tone to one of the industry’s most in-demand session musicians. Along the way, he dishes out unforgettable stories about working behind the scenes, collaborating on major projects, and navigating the ever-evolving studio landscape. But this isn’t just a stroll down memory lane. Steve gets candid about the temptation to chase the hidden features in studio gear, why musicians obsess over the latest plugins, and when that obsession helps—or hurts—the creative process. With Chris and Jody guiding the conversation, you’ll hear sharp insights about staying productive in the studio, managing the chaos of gear options, and keeping the focus where it belongs: the music. Packed with wisdom, humor, and enough guitar-fueled energy to make you want to pick up your instrument immediately, this episode is equal parts masterclass and jam session. Whether you’re running a home studio gear setup or a full-scale production house, you’ll find nuggets of inspiration and plenty of reasons to laugh along.

On the surface, panning and pan laws might sound like the driest topic in the world—but if you care about making mixes that translate everywhere, you can’t afford to ignore them. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody take a deep dive into the mechanics and the myths of stereo placement, with their usual mix of expertise, humor, and truth bombs. First, they cover the basics: What is panning? What are pan laws? And why are they such a big deal when it comes to balancing tracks in stereo? You’ll learn how pan laws affect perceived loudness, how different DAWs handle them, and why some engineers insist they contribute to that elusive idea of a “DAW sound.” From there, Chris and Jody explore real-world scenarios. How do pan laws impact mono compatibility? Why does it matter when you collaborate with other studios or engineers? And how can you use this knowledge to avoid translation issues when moving sessions between DAWs? They’ll also dig into some common misconceptions, bust a few myths, and explain how this “brutally boring” subject can actually make a measurable difference in your mixes. As always, it’s not just theory. Expect recording setup tips, insights into hidden features in studio gear, and plenty of practical takeaways for anyone working with home studio gear. And because it’s Chris and Jody, you’ll also get humor, banter, and a little nonsense—because even pan laws deserve a laugh. If you’ve ever wondered why your mixes sound different when played back in another DAW, or why mono checks sometimes fall apart, this episode will give you the clarity (and chuckles) you need. #PanLaws #MixingTips #MusicProduction #HomeStudioGear #ProAudioLife #RecordingSetup #InsideTheRecordingStudio #DAWWorkflow

Confession time: how many compressor plugins do you actually need? One? Two? Six? Let’s be real—you probably have a “go-to” compressor and five others you bought during a flash sale because someone on YouTube said it was life-changing. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Chris and Jody are right there with you in this week’s episode of Inside the Recording Studio, tackling the hilarious, slightly painful truth about gear hoarding in music production. Let’s paint the picture. You open your DAW, scroll through your plugin folder, and realize you’ve somehow collected enough EQs to start your own virtual museum. You tell yourself each one “has a different color” (translation: it’s slightly shinier than the last). Meanwhile, your mixes still hinge on the same three plugins you’ve used for years. And guitars? Don’t even start. That “backup” guitar? It has three backups of its own. This episode is all about calling out the obsession we all share—the need to collect, collect, and collect some more. Chris and Jody ask the uncomfortable but necessary questions: Does more gear actually make you a better mixer or songwriter? Why do we keep buying shiny new toys while ignoring the hidden features in studio gear we already own? And when is “just in case” actually code for “I’ll never use this, but it looks cool in my rack”? They’ll swap stories about plugin overload, forgotten purchases, and the sobering reality of discovering licenses for tools they don’t even remember buying. (Yes, it happens.) They’ll also share practical ideas on how to prune your collection, focus on what actually improves your workflow, and get back to what matters most—making music, not scrolling menus. But don’t expect a lecture. This is Inside the Recording Studio, after all. You’ll get plenty of laughs, playful digs at gear addiction, and the kind of nonsense that makes self-reflection just a little less painful. After all, admitting you might be a gear hoarder is easier when Chris and Jody are joking right along with you. At the end of the day, this episode isn’t about shaming you for that seventh guitar pedal or your fifth reverb plugin. It’s about reminding ourselves that great music comes from skill, creativity, and intent—not the size of your plugin folder. Or as Chris and Jody put it: too much gear sometimes means too little music. So before you buy that next “essential” bundle, hit play on this brutally honest (and very funny) conversation. Your wallet—and maybe your mixes—will thank you. #GearAddiction #PluginAddiction #HomeStudioGear #ProAudioLife #RecordingSetup #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingTips #StudioConfessions

Who says distortion is just for shredders in leather pants? This week, Chris & Jody are here to spill the beans on how creative distortion in mixing can spice up any track. Think of it like hot sauce: a little goes a long way, but sometimes you just want to drench everything. They start by serving up the obvious—guitar tones that roar and scream—but then they ladle distortion all over the mix. Bass that rattles, vocals that snarl, even drums that sound like they’re trying to escape the speakers. It’s chaos, but the good kind. Along the way, you’ll get recording setup tips for pulling this off with your home studio gear without blowing up your interface (unless you want to). They’ll also expose a few hidden features in studio gear that can surprise you when you push them past polite levels. And of course, no episode is complete without their signature nonsense, wisecracks, and a Friday Find that will have you itching to experiment the moment you hit stop. This isn’t “Distortion 101.” This is distortion with swagger. #CreativeDistortion #MixingTips #HomeStudioGear #RecordingSetupTips #ProAudioLife #HiddenFeaturesInStudioGear #FridayFindsMusic #MixingWithAttitude

Apple’s MainStage is more than a shiny logo—it’s a performance powerhouse. In this episode, Chris & Jody break down why MainStage is the unsung hero of live rigs and home studio gear alike. From navigating its role as a flexible plugin host to uncovering hidden features in studio gear, they cover how this tool streamlines touring setups and enhances recording workflows. You’ll learn which instruments thrive inside MainStage, how to optimize your recording setup tipsto prevent mid-show meltdowns, and why producers are quietly sneaking it into their sessions. Of course, Chris & Jody sprinkle in their signature humor, a few cautionary tales, and wrap it all up with this week’s Friday Finds—gear gems you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a road warrior, a bedroom producer, or a gear junkie, this episode shows why MainStage may just be your next secret weapon.   #MainStageTips #HomeStudioGear #RecordingSetupTips #LivePerformanceRig #PluginHostSecrets #HiddenFeaturesInStudioGear #ProAudioWorkflow #FridayFindsMusic

What’s it really like to make a living behind a drum kit? Chris & Jody corner Christopher Allis and get the dirt—from his first bash at the skins to rubbing shoulders (and sticks) with big-name acts. Expect road stories, studio quirks, and a few laughs about the less glamorous side of the music grind. This is Part One of the chat, and it’s loaded with tasty fills, candid confessions, and enough inspiration to make you dust off that snare you’ve been ignoring. Spoiler: yes, we talk about home studio gear and the weird things drummers pack on tour. #CareerMusicianStories #LifeBehindTheKit #ProDrummerInterview #InsideTheRecordingStudio #StudioSessionTips #LivePerformanceInsights #DrummerLifeUnplugged #MusicCareerJourney

Duck. Breathe. Pulse. Repeat. The beat hits, and everything else steps aside. In this episode, Chris & Jody journey into the hidden choreography of sound—where one signal controls another, and side-chaining becomes more than a trick. It becomes feel. What starts as a lesson in DAW setup and MPC Live integration quickly morphs into a deconstruction of space, impact, and the rhythm behind rhythm. Compression is the hammer. Side-chaining is the sculptor. Basslines yield to kicks. Pads inhale and exhale. You’ll learn the how, sure. The routing. The thresholds. The tools. But more importantly, you’ll learn the why—the artistic intent behind the technical choices. Oh, and the usual chaos? It’s there. Along with Friday Finds that might just blow a few fuses (in the best way). Plug in. Tune out. Let the side-chain lead. #SideChainSecrets #StudioAlchemy #SonicSculpting #MixingWithEmotion #HomeStudioCraft #AudioMovement #InsideTheRecordingStudio #CreativeMixing

Referencing Your Way to a Better Mix In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the power of reference mixes—why they’re essential tools for mixers and how to use them effectively in your workflow. From understanding tonal balance to making better decisions about EQ, compression, and stereo width, reference tracks can be your secret weapon for more polished, competitive mixes. The duo shares their personal referencing workflows and recommends plugin tools that simplify A/B comparisons inside your DAW. Plus, don’t miss their offbeat banter and the latest pick from this week’s Friday Finds. Whether you're just getting started or you’ve been mixing for years, this episode will help you train your ears, sharpen your instincts, and mix with more confidence. Learn how to mix smarter by referencing like a pro! #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingTips #ReferenceMixes #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #MixLikeAPro #DAWWorkflow #PluginTools

How to Stay Productive During Studio Downtime What should you be doing when the session calendar is quiet and the console isn’t lit up? In this insightful and entertaining episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive into 3 essential categories of activities to help you stay productive when you're not tracking, mixing, or mastering for the hottest band in town. Whether you’re between big projects or facing a creative lull, this episode offers clear strategies to maximize your time — from refining your technical skills and organizing your gear to recharging your creative energy and building your business. Expect smart suggestions like: Creative ways to upgrade your mix templates How to use reference listening for growth Staying visible in your scene even when you're not booked How rest is productive — if done right Of course, there’s also the usual dose of lighthearted banter and studio nonsense, because taking yourself too seriously never helped anyone hit record. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring audio ninja, you’ll walk away with actionable ideas to keep your momentum strong — even during the quiet spells. Tune in to Inside the Recording Studio and learn how to make downtime work for you. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #StudioDowntime #ProducerLife #AudioEngineerTips #MixingAndMastering #CreativeMomentum #RecordingStudioHacks #MusicCareerAdvice

10 Common Mastering Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Mastering isn’t just about loudness — it’s about finesse, clarity, and translating your mix to every playback system. In this enlightening (and slightly irreverent) episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody walk you through 10 of the most common mistakes made by beginner and intermediate mastering engineers — and how to steer clear of them. 🎛️ From over-compressing to EQing blindly, this episode covers the critical pitfalls that sabotage sonic balance and coherence in the mastering stage. Chris and Jody don’t just list the issues — they give you real-world solutions and share stories from sessions gone sideways. 💡 Whether you’re new to mastering or just looking to tighten your workflow, you’ll get practical strategies you can use right away. Expect to hear tips on: When to use multiband compression (and when to run away) Why reference tracks are your best friend How to stop chasing loudness and start chasing results Plus a healthy dose of humor to remind you that we’re all learning If you're serious about elevating your mastering chops — or just want to laugh at a few horror stories from the studio — this episode is for you. Come on inside and take another step toward mastering bliss.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MasteringTips #AudioMastering #MixingAndMastering #StudioMistakes #MasteringEngineer #DAWMastering #SoundBetterMastering

Deadlines don’t care how creative you're feeling—so Chris and Jody are jumping into the fast lane with an episode all about navigating tight studio deadlines. Whether it's last-minute sessions, surprise client changes, or an unexpected "we need it yesterday" scenario, the guys share their real-world strategies for staying productive under pressure. From prioritizing tasks in your DAW to smart time-saving workflows, they'll give you the battle-tested tactics that have helped them hit the mark—even when time's running out. Hear about clever plugin choices, effective template setups, and how to keep creative focus without sacrificing quality. And yes, there’s still room for a little nonsense and the latest edition of Friday Finds, because no crunch is complete without some fun. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MusicProductionTips #AudioWorkflow #QuickMixingHacks #StudioTimeCrunch #FastTrackYourMix #ProducerMindset #RecordingEngineerLife

Corrective EQ vs Sweetening EQ: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive headfirst into the often-blurred line between corrective EQ and sweetening EQ — and why understanding the difference can elevate your mixes from passable to polished.  Corrective EQ: What exactly qualifies as “fixing” a sound? From removing muddiness and taming resonances to addressing harsh frequencies, the duo breaks down when and why to use EQ as a surgical tool during the early mix stages.  Sweetening EQ: Once the mix is clean, how do you take it from good to great? Chris and Jody walk through subtle boosts, tonal shaping, and the “sprinkle of fairy dust” approach that sweetening EQ can offer — all while staying musical.  Whether you're battling room problems, poor mic placement, or just trying to add shimmer to your overheads or glue to your mix bus, this episode explores the process value and decision-making behind each type of EQ move. Plus, the latest Friday Finds may change your plugin folder for good — and yes, there’s the usual side of light-hearted nonsense along the way.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #CorrectiveEQ #SweeteningEQ #MixingTips #MusicProduction #HomeStudioHacks #EQTechniques #AudioEngineerLife #FridayFinds #ProducerMindset

Music Theory in the Studio: Must-Have Skill or Creative Buzzkill? Should every musician or producer know music theory? Is it a necessary tool or an outdated gatekeeper? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody tackle one of the most debated questions in modern production: does knowing music theory actually help in the studio—or can it sometimes get in the way? From beatmakers who can’t read a note to session players who know every scale in every mode, the creative spectrum is wide—and this conversation explores all sides of it.  In this episode: Should producers, musicians, and engineers be fluent in music theory? Does music theory speed up the writing and recording process—or complicate it? Can theory knowledge hinder spontaneity and vibe in a creative session? What happens when you’re collaborating with someone who doesn’t know theory? And: how to find the sweet spot between structure and instinct in your workflow Whether you're a self-taught genius or a classically trained perfectionist, this episode will give you a fresh take on where music theory fits into today's studio landscape. And of course, there’s this week’s Friday Finds—plus a bit of good-natured nonsense for balance.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MusicTheoryDebate #MusicProductionTips #MixingEngineer #HomeStudioLife #ProducerMindset #StudioWorkflow #FridayFinds #RecordingLife #CreativeCollaboration

How to Hear Compression: Training Your Ears to Master Dynamic Control Compression—it’s one of the most powerful tools in your mixing arsenal. But if you’re not sure what you’re actually hearing, it can just as easily confuse as it can enhance. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody open up the signal chain and break down exactly how to train your ears to hear what compression is doing. Whether you’re a beginner trying to grasp the basics or a seasoned engineer looking to sharpen your perception, this episode delivers practical insights you can use right away.  Inside this episode: A friendly walkthrough of compressor controls—threshold, ratio, attack, release, makeup gain Why extreme compression settings can help reveal what’s happening to your signal Pro tricks to help you identify compression artifacts and avoid over-compression How to use what you hear to make smarter mix decisions Expect plenty of real-world advice, go-to tactics Chris and Jody use in their own sessions, and—as always—a dose of Friday Finds and some entertaining studio nonsense. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of compression’s role in your mix—and the confidence to use it to your advantage.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #CompressionTips #MixingTechniques #AudioEngineering #LearnCompression #MusicProduction #DynamicControl #HomeStudioLife #FridayFinds #MixingMastery

The Power of Sidechaining: How to Add Movement, Clarity, and Energy to Your Mixes You’ve heard the pumping effect. You’ve felt that bounce in the low end. But do you really understand how sidechainingworks—or all the creative ways you can use it? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive deep into the world of sidechaining, demystifying this essential mixing technique and sharing the smart, subtle, and sometimes surprising ways they use it to bring their mixes to life. Whether you're using it to duck the bass under the kick, tame reverb tails, trigger FX, or create pulsing rhythmic movement, sidechaining is more than just a trend—it's a mixing power tool. In this episode: What sidechaining is and how it functions in a DAW Traditional and creative sidechaining methods How to use sidechaining to create clarity, groove, and mix energy Best plugins and routing techniques for effective implementation Why sidechaining isn’t just for EDM—it works in rock, pop, hip-hop, orchestral, and more Plus, you’ll hear Chris and Jody’s go-to plugins, real-world applications, a fresh round of Friday Finds, and of course, some unfiltered nonsense along the way. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just getting your hands dirty in your first DAW session, this episode gives you the tools to sidechain with confidence—and purpose. #InsideTheRecordingStudio #Sidechaining #MixingTips #AudioProduction #DAWWorkflow #MusicProductionTechniques #HomeStudioLife #AudioEngineering #FridayFinds #ProAudioTools #DynamicMixing

Ever had someone say, “This mix just needs a little more warmth,” and wondered what that actually means? Or maybe you’ve tried to get that rich, analog vibe in your digital mix and ended up with something that just sounded... dull? In this cozy, mojo-filled episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the art (and science) of getting warmth in your mixes—from the tools they trust to the techniques they use every day. We’re talking about that sonic something that makes a track feel full, smooth, and alive—without losing clarity. Warmth isn't about cutting all the highs or slathering tape emulation on every channel. It's about intentional tone-shaping, and in this episode, you’ll learn where to find it and how to apply it (without overcooking the mix). In this episode: Microphones and preamps that naturally add warmth before you ever touch a plugin Favorite plugins and analog emulations for tape saturation, tube-style EQ, and transformer character Techniques to create warmth without sacrificing clarity or space Why “mojo” matters, and how to capture it in both analog and digital workflows Common myths about warmth—busted by Chris and Jody’s real-world experience Plus, this week’s Friday Finds delivers more audio goodies to fuel your obsession—and yes, there's the usual dose of nonsense we all secretly love. Whether you're chasing vintage vibes or just want your mixes to sound less cold, this episode will help you heat things up the right way.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #WarmMixes #MixingTips #AnalogVibe #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #MixingMojo #ProAudioGear #TapeSaturation #StudioLife #FridayFinds