Master Your Mix Podcast

Carl Bahner is a mix engineer originally from Lancaster, PA.  Carl has worked with artists like The Wombats, St. Lucia, Joywave, and Hippo Campus.Applying a contemporary slant on the "Wall of Sound" style to his productions, he offers his bright-eyed and open-hearted perspective by creatively framing vocals with imaginative instrumentation. He blends the organic with the synthetic, the digital with the analog, and the modern with the classic—resulting in rich, vibrant music that's full of life.But don't be fooled by Carl's youthful energy and infectious enthusiasm – he's a seasoned pro who's honed his skills on stages around the world. As a performer, he has toured extensively in the US, Canada, and the UK, and his music has been featured in film, television, and even Guitar Hero: Live. Carl has also performed on stage opening for acts like Walk The Moon, X Ambassadors, Charli XCX, Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness, The Wombats, Joywave, Years & Years, They Might Be Giants, Civil Twilight, The Hold Steady, Diarrhea Planet, Cold War Kids, The Gaslight Anthem, The Airborne Toxic Event, The Naked & Famous, and countless others.In addition to his mixing and production work, Carl is an educator passionate about sharing his industry knowledge. He currently teaches music industry courses at Lebanon Valley College. Carl also creates educational content for Produce Like A Pro, focusing on home studio marketing topics.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:Making remixes to build your portfolioTaking music production “seriously”Getting on the same page as your clientsNot being afraid of muting tracks in a mixQuestions to ask yourself to make sure you aren’t adding too many layers to your productionsHow to get clear, in-your-face vocalsThe argument for using multiple plugins with each doing smaller changes, rather than fewer plugins making big moves.Using de-essers properlyThe downside of using reverbHow HPFs will help you achieve better low-endGetting your first clientsHow to use social media to market yourselfWhat sorts of social media posts to makeDoing cold outreach to attract new clientsTo learn more about Carl Bahner, visit: https://www.carlbahner.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the...

Matt Greiner is the drummer and a founding member of 2x Grammy Nominated band, August Burns Red. He is a founding member, starting the band in 2003 and performing in 45 countries, 6 continents, and playing over 1800 shows.He has worked as an ambassador for Zildjian Cymbals, teaching and performing in Southeast Asia and South America as well as throughout North America.  Matt enjoys spending time at home with his wife Annie, working on his farm in Manheim with his dad and 2 brothers, and likes being outside and active.Matt loves teaching drum lessons and creating educational content for his drumming website, mattgreinerlessons.comMatt would say that drums are the most challenging thing he's ever done.  It’s because of that simple fact that he enjoys playing and teaching and is grateful to be celebrating 20 years of August Burns Red this year.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:Writing parts that serve the songLiteral vs nonliteral drummingWriting technical metal musicEditing: Should you edit everything or keep the human feel?How to prepare for the studioProgramming drums: how to program them to sound realisticGetting great drum tones in the studioA simple tool Matt uses to make tuning drums easyTo learn more about Matt Greiner, visit: https://mattgreinerlessons.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej  Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to questions@masteryourmix.comPlease leave a rating and review:https://masteryourmix.com/review/ Thanks for listening!

Jonte Knif was interested from an early age both in engineering and musical instruments and music. This dual interest manifested itself in the daring decision to start studying harpsichord at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, and engineering physics at the University of Technology. This decision was soon to be found to be a mistake and Knif concentrated on music studies only.During the following 6 years, Knif played in many ensembles specializing in music from medieval times to Frank Zappa and started to build tube amps and design speakers and harpsichords, which got international recognition.Knif switched to study in the Department of Music Technology in Sibelius Academy and graduated in 2005. After graduation, he decided to concentrate on hardware design and founded Knif Audio in 2005.Fueled by his passion for instrument building and audio, Knif Audio has produced many power amplifiers, experimental loudspeakers, one commercial loudspeaker, Knif Rauman Nº1, and new harpsichord and electric clavichord models.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:Becoming a gear manufacturerLearning how to make gearUnderstanding psychoacousticsBalancing the needs of the pro audio community vs audiophilesMastering grade vs. mixing grade equipmentLooking back at your past workWhat makes different models of EQ sound differentHardware vs pluginsHow Q values change in relation to EQ boosts/cutsTubes: Choosing the right ones for specific usesTubes vs. transformersPlugin Alliance Soma: How it compares to the real thingTo learn more about Jonte Knif and Knif Audio, visit: https://knifaudio.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej  Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to 

Ryan Ordway is a multifaceted artist, songwriter, producer, and audio engineer with over two decades of experience in recording, mixing, music licensing, session playing, and commercial studio management. Having recorded and produced nearly 1,000 songs across various genres, he has worked with internationally recognized artists and designed, built, and operated multiple recording studios. In 2020, he partnered with The Studio Portland in Portland, ME, overseeing an ambitious remodel completed in 2024. Under his direction, The Studio became home to 98.9 WCLZ’s Studio Z series, hosting artists such as Noah Kahan, Grace Potter, Lake Street Dive, Joy Oladokun, and Gregory Alan Isakov.Ordway’s songwriting talents led him to record at the renowned Blackbird Studios in Nashville with legendary producer Ken Scott (The Beatles, Elton John, David Bowie). His song Easy Street was featured in Getting Started with Music Production (Hal Leonard, 2015). His work has been nominated for Producer of the Year at the New England Music Awards (2023) and Song of the Year for Back Again (2022).Beyond the studio, Ordway’s music has been licensed in over 13 countries and featured on major platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Hulu, as well as in TV shows such as The Office, Happy Endings, and Raising Hope.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Studying a producer/engineer’s entire workflows, rather than in bite-sized piecesGetting into music publishingWhat kinds of mixes you need to submit if you want your music to be licensedWhy you should start your own music publishing companySongwriting splits: how to deal with them fairlyWriting music for possible sync dealsEmbracing a “less is more” approach to songwriting and engineeringFinding the right people to get into sync workMaking fans by shaking handsBuilding your team for successTo learn more about Ryan Ordway, visit: https://theordways.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.comThe Mixing Mindset: The...

Duncan Ferguson is a Nashville-based mastering engineer and educator, best known as the founder of The Voltage Exchange, a mastering studio specializing in high-quality masters for digital, CD, and vinyl releases. With a Master’s degree in Sound Recording from McGill University, Duncan combines deep technical knowledge with refined critical listening, helping artists translate their mixes into competitive, release-ready records without sacrificing musical intent. His work spans a wide range of genres, and he’s known for a thoughtful, communicative approach that helps mixers and producers understand why their music sounds the way it does at the final stage.In addition to his mastering work, Duncan teaches audio and mastering at SAE Institute Nashville, where he helps the next generation of engineers develop reliable listening skills, technical confidence, and a strong decision-making mindset. His dual role as a working mastering engineer and educator gives him a unique perspective on the most common mix issues, how small changes upstream can dramatically improve masters, and how home-studio producers can get closer to professional results before the mastering stage even begins.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Continuing to learn new skillsThe future of masteringImmersive masteringNew technologies that are making vinyl cutting more affordable/accessibleNot letting perfection stop youCollaborating on the vision of a projectPrepping for mastering by using Izotope RXWhen to use analog vs digitalSolid state vs tube gearDuncan’s go-to tools for controlling low endTo learn more about Duncan Ferguson, visit: https://thevoltageexchange.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.comThe Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/Check out...

Pete Lyman is a GRAMMY-nominated mastering engineer, and owner of Infrasonic. Pete’s digital and vinyl mastering career spans thousands of titles over the last two decades. He has mastered Grammy-award winning and Grammy-nominated albums for Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, Halsey, Sturgill Simpson, John Prine, Weezer, Panic! At the Disco and more.In 2005 Lyman opened Infrasonic West, a custom-built mastering facility in Echo Park, CA. Pete, and his 1956 Neumann AM32B Cutting Lathe, moved to Nashville, TN in 2018 and opened Infrasonic East. In 2022, Infrasonic West found its new home in Highland Park, CA. Since then, Pete has curated the Infrasonic roster to include engineers spanning everything from mixing to mastering to vinyl cutting to immersive and so much more.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Why not committing to your mix is doing more harm than goodThe biggest problem people make with their editingUsing room correction tools/softwareWhy the level of your mix doesn’t matter as much as you think it doesWhy stem-mastering is stupid and you should avoid itPassive vs. active listeningPreserving the character of a mix in masteringKnowing when to do nothing as part of your job as a mixing and mastering engineerHow to let go of your personal tastes when working on something that doesn’t connect with youUnderstanding the needs of various genresTo learn more about Pete Lyman, visit: https://infrasonicsound.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.comThe Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2KSubscribe to the...

Kevin Antreassian is an American musician, producer, engineer, and studio owner based in New Jersey. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Audio Engineering from William Paterson University and is the founder and operator of Backroom Studios, a multifaceted recording and rehearsal facility established in 2007. Over his career, Antreassian has worked with a wide range of artists across rock and metal genres, providing production, recording, mixing/mastering, and technical services for both emerging and established acts.As a guitarist, he is best known for his tenure with the influential mathcore band The Dillinger Escape Plan, performing with the group through their later period and contributing to their final shows and recordings, as well as other groups like The Sawtooth Grin and Knife the Glitter. In addition to his work in the studio and on stage, Antreassian has served as a touring guitar technician for notable acts, and he teaches music production and guitar tech at William Paterson University.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Choosing between touring, corporate audio, and running a studioWhy multiple income streams matter if you want long-term stabilityThe not-so-glamorous truth about life on the roadAvoiding burnout when you’re obsessed with making recordsHow starting with minimal gear actually sharpens your skillsWhy he keeps outboard gear set to fixed settingsHow he uses templates for speed and consistency rather than toneTuning out the marketing noise around gear so you can stay focusedCreating clarity and focus in chaotic musicHow editing impacts the energy and feel of a performanceWhen live-off-the-floor beats isolated trackingWhy automation is the biggest separator between amateur and pro mixesTo learn more about Kevin Antreassian, visit: https://backroom.studio/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com

Shane Slack is an Emmy-nominated mastering and post-production engineer, and the owner of Mono Theory, Inc., a Florida-based studio specializing in mastering, sound design, and Foley for music, television, and film. With credits spanning Apple TV+, Netflix, Disney+, CBS, and Showtime, Shane has helped shape the sound of high-profile projects including Ted Lasso, The Umbrella Academy, NCIS: LA, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. A graduate of Valencia College’s Sound & Music Technology program, he’s also a member of the Recording Academy and the Audio Engineering Society, where he’s active in mastering education and diversity initiatives.Drawing from early influences like Motown, reggae, and classic video game soundtracks, Shane’s work combines deep technical expertise with an ear for emotional storytelling. Whether mastering indie releases or handling sound for major media productions, he’s passionate about translating creative intent into mixes that connect across every playback system. Through Mono Theory, he continues to bridge the gap between art and acoustics—helping artists, producers, and filmmakers bring their sonic visions to life.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Why learning about mastering first is a smart decisionProduction and mixing mistakes that often need to be fixed by a mastering engineerUnderstanding psychoacousticsHow to double-track instruments for better translation and phaseWhy phase correction is so crucial for proper mix translationChecking mixes in monoUsing mid-side EQHow to make mixing easier, simply by being careful with instrument voicingWhy it’s better to use multiple compressors, rather than only oneDeveloping your audio skills faster by taking your timeAsking yourself “why” when you’re making the moves you’re makingTo learn more about Shane Slack, visit: https://www.instagram.com/slackshane/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com

Aaron Rubin is a mix engineer, producer, writer, manager and musician who has worked with some big names in the industry including Ilan Rubin, Angels & Airwaves, Frank Turner and Blink-182.Aaron has worn many hats in the industry and got his start working with his brother Ilan playing in bands and later managing his music career. He has always been interested in the production side of music, which has led to his work with Tom Delonge and his various projects.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Broadening your networkProving your valueWorking with Tom Delong and Blink-182Disagreeing with artistsRecording the new Blink-182 record with an Axe FXHow to get the Tom Delonge guitar toneBlending amp soundsThe challenges of working on a record being made in multiple studiosSession organizationUpdating mixes after an album has been releasedHow AI is going to change the game for mixingThe art of committing to soundsNotable gear mentioned in this episode:Stereo Manley Pultec: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/darLBkTo learn more about Aaron Rubin, visit: http://www.thisiscommand.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.comThe Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2KSubscribe to the show:Apple...

Kris Crummett is a record producer and mastering engineer known for his amazing work in the metalcore, post-hardcore, and rock scenes. He has worked with artists such as Dance Gavin Dance, Sleeping With Sirens, Issues, and many more. He also owns Interlace Audio, which is a fantastic studio located in Portland, Oregon. His productions are well known for having massive tones while sounding polished and energetic.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:His secret weapon for getting toms to cut through a mix without sounding too boomy/muddyHis step-by-step checklist for using automation to create energy in his mixesHow he treats vocals to get them to sound super clear and up-frontHow to use track presets efficientlyBalancing live drums vs samplesHis STL Tones ToneHub presets and the art behind making great amp simsMastering your own tracksLooking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/ Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.comThe Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2KSubscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJejYoutube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMixHave questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to

Jeff Kolhede is a producer, audio engineer, and artist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Having participated in multiple Grammy-nominated records, he operates primarily out of 25th Street Recording, the SF Bay Area’s premier recording facility, where he helps emerging and established artists.Jeff’s composing work for film and advertisements has been featured for leading brands, including the trailer music for the Academy Award-winning film, Moonlight. This led him to co-found Gooroo Music, a bay area music house, where he directs a team of award-winning composers, mix engineers, and sound designers for film and advertisements. Recent work includes Billie Eilish, Youtube, Faherty, and Adobe campaigns.Alongside his producing and engineering work is Jeff Kolhede’s artist project. His self-recorded Dismantle LP was released on November 24, 2023. The SF Chronicle noted that “The gorgeous ‘Wonder Why’ calls to mind Nick Drake, with Kolhede’s vocals shining atop a layered string arrangement…there’s both retro-minded and contemporary folk moments within Kolhede’s notable first effort.” This same single wonder why was featured on the Spotify official Fresh Finds folk playlist. bandcamp included the full album on their new and notable feature. His influences range from rock, singer-songwriter, indie, soul, and jazz with genres being defied by melodies, introspective lyricism, and his primary instruments; the sax and voice.Jeff Kolhede remains committed to making a positive, creative, and inclusive impact by way of music and kindness.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Separating processes vs. doing them all at onceGainstaging as if you're mixingMaking mixes that are “perfectly imperfect”Allowing yourself to be objectiveMaking time for experimentation/skill developmentKeeping things organicChasing gearCapturing clean, dry, tight drum soundsUsing a “crotch mic”Techniques for muffling drumsAchieving in your face, smooth vocalsPicking mics for a desired soundUsing clip gain vs. compressionTo learn more about Jeff Kolhede, visit: https://www.jeffkolhede.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: a...

Angel Marcloid is a fearless, genre-melting musician, producer, and mixing/mastering engineer based outside Chicago, IL. She creates under a broad constellation of aliases, with Fire-Toolz as her flagship solo project and No Joy as her most recent collaborative venture. Angel Hair Audio is her full-service audio production studio for artists whose work already leans leftfield or quietly wants to. She draws from a lifetime of listening, learning, and restless experimentation, carrying a huge musical vocabulary that reaches from her formative years immersed in AOR, prog, jazz fusion, and metal to the noise, industrial, grind, post-punk, krautrock, ambient, hardcore, and early-wave emo that shaped her adolescence.Angel’s approach blends traditional technique informed by legendary engineers with contemporary and boundary-pushing production practices. She finds the emotional pressure points of a piece, then uncovers or amplifies what makes it distinctive, and sculpts it to be a worthy vehicle for an impassioned voice that deserves to be heard and felt.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Connecting with your communityRespecting the vibe of a songTranslation issues with mixesCreating focus in a mixRules meant to be followed and brokenWhy simplicity isn’t always a good thingCreating width without stereo widenersFocusing on individual instruments vs as a wholeCreating a hierarchy within your mixesTo learn more about Angel Marcloid, visit: https://angelhairaudio.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to questions@masteryourmix.comPlease leave a rating and...

Kurt Ballou is an American musician, producer, and recording engineer best known as the guitarist and founding member of the influential hardcore band Converge. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, he is also the owner and chief engineer of GodCity Studio, a world-renowned recording facility that has become a cornerstone of modern heavy music production. With a background in both engineering and performance, Ballou bridges the gap between raw creative energy and meticulous technical precision, helping define the sound of countless bands across the hardcore, punk, and metal scenes. His production work is celebrated for its intensity, clarity, and attention to sonic texture — hallmarks that have shaped genre-defining records for artists such as Have Heart, High on Fire, Trap Them, and Nails.Beyond his engineering prowess, Ballou is recognized for his deep understanding of instrument tone and studio design. At GodCity, he merges analog warmth with modern fidelity, crafting recordings that feel both visceral and articulate. His dedication to DIY ethics and craft has made him a respected figure not only among musicians but also within the broader audio engineering community. Through his work, Ballou continues to inspire a generation of producers and home-studio creators to pursue authenticity, precision, and emotional truth in every mix.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Learning through revisiting old recordingsWhy you can’t trust all you read on forumsCheap vs. expensive gear: What really matters?Mic vs. placement vs. preamps: Which is most important?Mike and Kurt’s feelings on AtmosThe secret to Kurt’s great guitar tonesA simple trick for checking phase with multi-mic setups on guitar ampsSimplifying your approach to productionHow to treat a 2-guitar band vs a 1-guitar bandGetting guitars and bass to feel balancedSidechaining guitars to vocalsMixing his own records with ConvergeCharging per song or by hourRecording entire albums in one sessionTo learn more about Kurt Ballou, visit: https://kurtballou.com/https://godcitystudio.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: a...

Mark Lewis is a Nashville-based record producer, engineer, and mixer best known for shaping the sound of modern heavy metal and hard rock. He cut his teeth under producer Jason Suecof at Audiohammer Studios in Orlando. Over the years, he’s become a go-to name in the metal scene, working with genre-defining bands such as Trivium, The Black Dahlia Murder, DevilDriver, Whitechapel, and many others. His credits span production, mixing, engineering, and mastering, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the full recording process.What sets Lewis apart is his meticulous approach to guitar tone, re-amping, and sonic detail, always striving to match technical precision with the raw energy of the bands he works with. Now operating out of his own Nashville studio, he continues to push the boundaries of heavy music, blending clarity and aggression in mixes that capture both the intensity and the musicality of metal. His work has helped countless bands refine their sound and stand out in an increasingly competitive genre, cementing his reputation as one of the most respected producers in heavy music today.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Recognizing your strengthsWorking with Jason SuecofHow getting fired led to his career taking offWhy knowing the “rules” doesn’t mean you should always follow themThe secret to great guitar toneHow your speakers make a massive differenceDispelling the Jim Lill tone testsKeeping objectivity when chasing toneWhen to reampHow to get away from always sounding the sameSpending money to make moneyPutting in the work to see successA technique you may be doing that is killing the uniqueness of a bandTo learn more about Mark Lewis, visit: https://marklewis.audio/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to a...

Jack Emblem is a GRAMMY-nominated mix engineer known for his versatility and ability to elevate every project he touches. Working seamlessly across all genres, Jack has established himself as a go-to mixer in today’s market.In 2024, Jack received a GRAMMY nomination for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical.His clients include Snoh Aaelgra, Lauren Spencer Smith, Charlotte Day Wilson, DEAN, Wild Rivers, Katie Tupper, Aaron Paris, Jesse Gold and many more.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Learning from different areas of the industryUnderstanding client expectations of your mixesSending clients file submission guidesMaking sure songs grow throughout a mixAutomating plugins to create impactWhy separation can be overratedAchieving clear, in-your-face vocalsUsing pre-delay to create depthUnderstanding the sound of different compressorsCreating contrast between elements of a micLeaving low-end aloneTo learn more about Jack Emblem, visit: https://www.jackemblem.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to questions@masteryourmix.comPlease leave a rating and review:https://masteryourmix.com/review/ Thanks for listening!

Scott Wiley is a music producer, engineer, musician, and owner of June Audio Recording Studio with over 2.1 billion streams. Scott studied music recording at USC and got to learn from some of the best producers and engineers in the industry during his years working in great Los Angeles studios like Sound Factory, Sunset Sound, Cello, and Conway Recording Studios. As an engineer and/or producer for the last 30 years, Scott has worked with The Killers, Neon Trees, Bonnie Raitt, Kaskade, David Archuleta, Tracy Chapman, The National Parks, and The Moth & The Flame, among many others. Scott has also taught recording and music business classes at UVU and BYU.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Being too “safe” with your processCapturing authentic performancesWorking with Tchad BlakeThe rules of audio that are meant to be brokenPicking the right gear for the jobThe expectations of clients and their understanding of the roles of producers and engineersFactoring the mix while trackingMixing your own recordings vs. other’sAchieving separation in a mixHow to direct a listener’s focus as they listen to your mixesTo learn more about Scott Wiley, visit: https://www.juneaudio.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to questions@masteryourmix.comPlease leave a rating and review:https://masteryourmix.com/review/ Thanks for listening!

John Paterno is a Grammy-winning producer, mixer, composer, engineer, mastering engineer, teacher, and musician who has worked with a diverse range of artists including Gov’t Mule, Robbie Williams, Steve Gadd Band, Soraya, Michael Landau, Band of Other Brothers, Robben Ford, Eros Ramazzotti, the Thrills, Tim McGraw, Bonnie Raitt, and Badly Drawn Boy, in his 30-plus-year career. Paterno moved to Los Angeles two weeks after graduating from the University of Miami's music engineering (MUE) program. A short period of freelance assisting concluded with a staff position at Sunset Sound/Sound Factory in Hollywood, where for five years he was exposed to many great engineers, producers, and artists. After breaking out of assisting, he worked with a wide range of producers, including Mitchell Froom, Joe Chiccarelli, Byron Gallimore, Celso Valli, and Stephen Duffy. He won a Latin Grammy for his work with artist/producer Soraya.Paterno has produced or co-produced projects for Gov’t Mule, Michael Landau, Andrew Synowiec, the Black Mollys, Mitchell Froom, Lustra, Robbie Williams, the Lilac Time, and many other artists. He has also co-written songs with artists and written pieces for TV and film.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Lessons learned from working with Tchad BlakeThe importance of focusWhy you don’t want people to feel like they’re in a recording studioHow to gain the trust of musiciansWhy cell phones need to be banned from the studioCoaching musicians to understand the difference between timing and grooveWhy you should always do preproduction before entering the studioGetting great drum soundsWhen to avoid using compressionHow Seinfeld and mixing have a lot in commonTo learn more about John Paterno, visit: https://www.musicdafoz.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d...

Anthony Gravino is a Grammy-nominated producer, recording, mixing and mastering engineer with over 20 years of experience as a professional engineer and musician, who has worked on hundreds of albums in various capacities. Some of the artists he has worked with include Peter Erskine, Kurt Elling, Charlie Hunter, Nate Smith, Marquis Hill, Davy Knowles, Ari Hest, Tobin Sprout.His private studio, High Cross Sound, is equipped with an exceptional collection of classic recording equipment and instruments with a focus on comfort, flexibility and high quality sound. Anthony is passionate about creating compelling music with exceptional sonics and is always striving to serve the song in the moment.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Building a studio out of a barnOwning a studio in the middle of nowhereHow to find remote clientsMixing fast: How to set your sessions up for speedThe benefits of mixing using channel strip pluginsGetting your mixes to feel wideFocusing on performance vs. gearThe illusions we create with music in the studioAchieving controlled bass tonesWhy you shouldn’t always worry about low-endHow to keep objective when working on your own musicWhy the “car test” isn’t necessaryTo learn more about Anthony Gravino, visit: https://anthonygravino.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to questions@masteryourmix.comPlease leave a rating and review:https://masteryourmix.com/review/ Thanks for listening!

With over 16 years supporting award-winning games and culturally-recognized franchises, Steve Pardo composes and directs emotional and expansive music and audio for linear and interactive media. He is co-founder of game music & audio production house SkewSound, Composer/Music Manager at ProbablyMonsters, founder/game developer at The Pardo Brothers, and an active saxophone/woodwind recording and performing artist in Nashville, TN. With a background in jazz, and a professional career that began at legendary music-game studio Harmonix Music Systems, Steve brings his professional background in generative audio to his love for rich and inventive soundtracks for games.In addition to his creative and audio direction contributions to the world’s most recognizable music gaming titles, such as Rock Band VR, Dance Central, Fantasia: Music Evolved, and Fortnite Festival, Steve has composed the interactive soundtrack for games such as Cypher 007, Moonbreaker, Gigantic, Signs of the Sojourner, Farthest Frontier, Grim Dawn, Chariot, Fated, Beat Sports, and The Magic Circle, and has scored music for networks such as Netflix, Adult Swim, and IFC. He has collaborated on generative and/or AI-driven projects for partners such as Mastercard, Warner Music, Youtube, Tribeca Film Festival, Lollapalooza, and Universal Music Group. As a game developer, Steve released the music-album-platformer DOS and is developing the VR comedy-simulator game SAXOPHONE.  Steve studied at the University of Miami, FL, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Studio Music and Jazz, and master’s degree in Studio Jazz Writing.IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:How to get into the gaming music industryThe different jobs available in gaming musicUnderstanding how audio is programmed for gamesThe revision processInteractive vs. generative music systemsAI’s role in game audio productionWhen and where to use real vs programmed instrumentsFile organizationTo learn more about Steve Pardo, visit: https://www.stevepardo.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: a...

Craig Alvin is an award-winning audio engineer based in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. With a career spanning three decades, Alvin has worked with a roster of well-known artists spanning various genres. His recording credits include Hanson, Little Big Town, Amy Grant, Vanessa Carlton, Will Hoge, Andrew Belle, Brittany Howard and many more. Alvin won two Grammys for his engineering on Kacey Musgraves‘ Golden Hour album in 2019, and has contributed to Musgraves’ follow-up albums Star-Crossed and Deeper Well. Alvin's extensive work has earned him a stellar reputation around the country for his unfailing ability to capture compelling sounds live in-studio and his sonic aptitude as a mix engineer. IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:Why you should go to garage salesHow to never have to change your plugin/outboard gear settings, but still get a great mixThe importance of clip gainWhy it’s ok to suck at mixingThe journey of becoming a good mix engineerWhy compression is much more than a tool just for dynamic rangeUsing automation to create dynamicsThe only three things engineers have control of in a mixUsing automation with effectsMixing over multiple daysLeaning into experimentation to help differentiate artistsTo learn more about Craig Alvin, visit: https://www.craigalvin.com/Looking for 1-on-1 feedback and training to help you create pro-quality mixes?Check out my coaching program Amplitude and apply to join:https://masteryourmix.com/amplitude/  Want additional help with your music productions?For tips on how to improve your mixes, visit: https://masteryourmix.com/ Download your FREE copy of the Ultimate Mixing Blueprint: https://masteryourmix.com/blueprint/ Get your copy of my Amazon #1 bestselling books:The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio: https://therecordingmindset.com The Mixing Mindset: The Step-By-Step Formula For Creating Professional Rock Mixes From Your Home Studio: https://masteryourmix.com/mixingmindsetbook/ Check out our Sponsors:Download Waves Plugins here: https://waves.alzt.net/EK3G2K Subscribe to the show:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/master-your-mix-podcast/id1240842781 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5V4xtrWSnpA5e9L67QcJej Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@MasterYourMix Have questions you’d like answered on the show?Send them to questions@masteryourmix.comPlease leave a rating and review:https://masteryourmix.com/review/ Thanks for listening!