Inside The Recording Studio

This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody step into the ring for a battle of the workflows—Channel Strips vs. Individual Plugins! Ever wondered if you should streamline your mix with an all-in-one channel strip or go full mad scientist with a chain of individual plugins? We’re diving into: What exactly makes up a channel strip, and how does it compare to stacking separate plugins? The classic hardware emulations and modern virtual channel strips that bring analog-style workflow to your DAW. The pros and cons—efficiency vs. flexibility, simplicity vs. control, and everything in between. Why thinking of your DAW like a console might just change how you mix forever. Of course, no Inside the Recording Studio episode is complete without a bit of nonsense, so expect some laughs along the way. If you’re looking to refine your mixing workflow and make better creative decisions in your DAW, this episode is for you!   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingWorkflow #ChannelStrips #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #StudioLife #MixingTips #MusicMixing #DAWWorkflow #ProAudio

NAMM 2025 has wrapped, and Chris and Jody are here to break down all the must-see gear, jaw-dropping innovations, and biggest surprises from this year’s show! From the excitement of Global Media Night to the hottest new releases in guitars, drums, audio interfaces, and software instruments, this episode is your all-access pass to everything we saw at NAMM. Here’s what we’re covering: The standout guitars that had everyone talking—game-changers or more of the same? The latest in drums and percussion, from cutting-edge electronic kits to killer acoustic designs. Audio interfaces and software instruments that promise to revolutionize home and pro studios alike. Other exciting pro audio gear that caught our ears (and eyes). And since NAMM is basically one giant Friday Find, we’re skipping the usual segment—because this entire episode is packed with discoveries! Plus, as always, expect a bit of fun and nonsense along the way. If you missed NAMM 2025 or just want to relive the highlights, tune in now and get the inside scoop on what’s next in the world of music and recording!   #NAMM2025 #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MusicGear #ProAudio #RecordingTech #GuitarGear #Drums #StudioLife #MusicProduction #NAMMShow #AudioEngineering

In this episode, Chris and Jody tackle the art of EQ’ing acoustic guitars to perfection. Whether you’re looking to add warmth, clarity, or sparkle to your tracks, this episode covers practical tips and creative ideas to help your acoustic guitar recordings shine. What’s on the agenda? Taming the low end for a clean, controlled foundation. Smoothing out the low mids to avoid muddiness. Bringing presence and clarity to the upper mids for a balanced mix. Adding a touch of sheen for brilliance and air. Insights on when to cut, when to boost, and why it makes all the difference. Chris and Jody break down the audio spectrum in a way that’s easy to understand, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Plus, you’ll get their thoughts on how to approach EQ decisions creatively—because every mix is unique. And of course, don’t miss their signature Friday Finds, which are always worth a listen (and this week, there’s a surprise waiting). As usual, expect a bit of humor and nonsense along the way—it wouldn’t be Inside the Recording Studio without it! If you’ve ever struggled to make your acoustic guitars sit perfectly in the mix, this episode is your new secret weapon. Tune in and start enhancing your acoustic recordings today! #InsideTheRecordingStudio #AcousticGuitarEQ #MixingTips #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #EQTechniques #GuitarMixing #StudioLife #MusicMixing #ProAudio  

Chris and Jody dive into one of the most common challenges in mixing: muddy mixes. Whether you’re struggling with unclear vocals, undefined instruments, or a mix that just feels too cluttered, this episode has you covered. Here’s what you’ll learn: How your arrangement choices can set the foundation for a cleaner mix. Tips for managing dynamics to prevent overlapping frequencies from getting out of control. The power of EQ in carving out clarity and eliminating problematic low-mid frequencies. A look at some software tools designed to help you clean up your mix, plus advice on using them effectively. Chris and Jody also share their thoughts on why addressing 'mud' is essential for achieving a polished, professional sound. And, as always, they bring their signature humor and fun to the conversation—because mixing should be enjoyable, right? Oh, and don’t forget this week’s Friday Finds—it’s a mystery worth sticking around for! Whether you’re new to mixing or looking to refine your skills, this episode will give you actionable insights to take your tracks to the next level. Tune in and start clearing the air in your mixes! #InsideTheRecordingStudio #MixingTips #CleanMixes #ReduceMuddiness #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #MixingEQ #StudioLife #MusicMixing #ProAudio

Chris and Jody dive into one of the most versatile tools in a mix engineer’s arsenal: delay. Whether you’re looking to add depth, space, or a touch of magic to your vocal tracks, this episode is packed with tips and tricks to help you get there. Here’s what’s on the table: The art of using unsynced delays to create unique vocal effects and make vocals sit just right in the mix. A breakdown of different delay types and how to use them to add cool textures and a sense of space. Real-world examples of delay in action, helping you think outside the grid and explore creative possibilities. Of course, it wouldn’t be an Inside the Recording Studio episode without some laughs, a dash of nonsense, and a surprise in this week’s Friday Finds—trust us, it’s a doozy you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, this episode offers practical insights and creative inspiration to take your vocal mixes to the next level. Hit play and get ready to delay like a pro!   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #VocalMixing #DelayEffects #MixingTips #MusicProduction #AudioEngineering #VocalEffects #StudioLife #CreativeMixing #MusicMixing #ProAudio

Chris and Jody welcome the creative powerhouse himself, Venus Theory (aka Cameron), for a lively and inspiring 90-minute interview. From his mythical beginnings on Mount Olympus (okay, maybe not quite) to becoming a sought-after name in the music and creative community, Venus Theory’s story is as unique as his music. In this episode, you’ll discover: The unconventional path that led Cameron into the world of music and creativity. His philosophies on making music and navigating the ups and downs of the creative process. Personal reflections on life, inspiration, and what it takes to stay passionate about your art. Practical advice for musicians, producers, and anyone pursuing a creative journey. Chris and Jody bring their trademark humor and curiosity to the table, making this a conversation filled with laughs, insights, and thought-provoking moments. Whether you’re a musician, a content creator, or just someone looking for inspiration, this episode will leave you energized and ready to tackle your next project. Don’t miss this power-packed interview with Venus Theory—it’s creativity at its finest!   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #VenusTheory #CreativeMusicProcess #MusicInspiration #MusicProduction #CreativeJourney #AudioEngineering #StudioLife #ContentCreation #MusicTips #CreativeLife #MusicMixing

Crank Up the Punch: 5 Strategies for Better Mixes Ready to make your mixes pack a serious punch? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody tackle five practical ways to give your recordings that extra oomph. Whether you’re a musician, a hobbyist, or a seasoned engineer, these tips will get your tracks sounding tighter, fuller, and punchier. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s on the menu: How arrangement and instrument choices set the foundation for a punchy mix. The art of keeping dynamics in check without squashing the life out of your music. Low-end EQ strategies to clean up mud and bring clarity. Saturation tricks (and no, not the flammable kind) for adding warmth and impact. The importance of phase checks to ensure everything locks in perfectly. Plus, Chris and Jody throw in their signature humor, a bit of friendly nonsense, and this week’s mysterious 'Friday Finds'—because who doesn’t love a good surprise? If you’re looking to transform your mixes and make them hit harder, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in, laugh a little, and take your mixing skills to the next level.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #PunchyMixes #MixingTips #MusicProduction #RecordingTips #AudioEngineering #ProAudio #StudioLife #MixEngineer #EQTechniques #DynamicControl #MusicMixing #RecordingStudio #AudioGear

In this episode Chris and Jody team up for a deep dive into the world of reference tracks—essential tools for both music production and songwriting emulation.   What exactly are reference tracks, and how can they elevate your creative process? Chris and Jody share their personal approaches to using them, shedding light on how these tracks can inspire production techniques or spark songwriting ideas. They’ll also explore the art of emulation: why borrowing inspiration from your favorite tracks can be a game-changer and how to do it without losing your originality.   But it’s not all smooth sailing—there are pitfalls to avoid when incorporating reference tracks into your workflow. Whether it’s over-reliance or misaligned expectations, Chris and Jody offer practical advice on what to avoid and where these tracks best fit into your process.   With expert insights, subtle humor, and actionable tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to fine-tune their creative workflow. Tune in to get inspired and make reference tracks work for you! #InsideTheRecordingStudio #ReferenceTracks #SongwritingTips #MusicProduction #CreativeWorkflow #AudioEngineering #SongwriterLife #ProductionTips #MusicMixing #ProAudio

This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the game-changing concept of using reference mixes to guide your mixing process. Why is referencing so essential? Whether you're a beginner trying to get your bearings or a seasoned engineer fine-tuning your sound, reference tracks can act as a compass for creating professional, polished mixes.   Join the discussion as Chris and Jody share how they incorporate reference mixes into their workflow, offering practical tips to keep your ears sharp and your mixes consistent. Discover their favorite tools and plugins that make referencing seamless in any DAW—plus, a few recommendations that might surprise you.   Of course, it wouldn’t be an Inside the Recording Studio episode without a bit of humor and nonsense along the way. And don’t miss the big reveal in this week’s 'Friday Finds'—you never know what gem might pop up!   Tune in for expert insights with a sprinkle of fun, and take your mixing skills to the next level.   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #ReferenceMixing #MixingTips #AudioEngineering #MixEngineer #MusicMixing #StudioLife #ProAudio #MusicProduction #HomeStudio #DAWPlugins #MixingWorkflow #AudioProduction #ProMixing #RecordingTips

Unlock the Power of Parallel Compression: Tips, Tricks, and Scheps Secrets   Ready to add some serious punch and polish to your mixes? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, we dive deep into parallel compression—aka "New York Style Compression"—and how it can take your tracks from flat to fabulous.   First, we’ll break down the basics: what is parallel compression, and why has it become a go-to secret weapon for engineers everywhere? We’ll explore two popular methods to achieve it, from classic aux sends to modern plugin magic. Learn why blending a heavily compressed signal with your original track creates that larger-than-life sound, and discover the sweet spots for your compression settings.   But we’re not stopping there. We’ll shine the spotlight on Andrew Scheps' legendary "Rear Bus Compression" technique—what it is, how it works, and why it might just be the missing link in your mix. Whether you’re chasing fat drums, thick vocals, or a cohesive mix that slaps, this episode has the goods.   Expect practical tips, a few laughs, and plenty of insight to level up your mixing game. Let’s get compressed, baby!   #InsideTheRecordingStudio #ParallelCompression #NewYorkCompression #AndrewScheps #MixingTips #AudioEngineering #StudioLife #MusicProduction #RearBusCompression #MixingSecrets #MusicMixing #CompressionTechniques #ProAudio #MixEngineer #HomeStudio #AudioGear #RecordingStudio #MusicTech #ProMixing #AudioProduction

Chris and Jody are back with a listener-inspired episode, diving into the art of time management and effective studio scheduling. Whether you’re juggling multiple sessions or trying to fill gaps in your calendar, they’ve got you covered. Learn how to maintain a steady workflow without burning out, avoid the dreaded scramble for new projects, and strike the perfect balance between productivity and downtime.   In this episode, they’ll share practical tips for tracking your studio time to better estimate session durations and calculate fair rates for your work. Plus, expect a dash of humor and relatable anecdotes as they reflect on their own scheduling wins (and missteps). It's a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their studio game while keeping things fun and stress-free.   And don’t miss their signature banter—it’s as entertaining as it is informative!   #StudioTimeManagement #AudioEngineerTips #MusicProductionWorkflow #InsideTheRecordingStudio #RecordingStudioLife #AudioProduction #StudioEfficiency #MusicBusiness #HomeRecordingStudio #StudioScheduling

In this insightful and entertaining episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the essential concepts of corrective EQ and sweetening EQ. Ever wondered what sets these two approaches apart? They’ve got you covered! Discover how corrective EQ helps fix problem frequencies and how sweetening EQ adds the magic touch to elevate your mix.   Through real-world examples and pro-level tips, Chris and Jody share when and where to use each type of EQ and their step-by-step processes for shaping a polished, professional sound. Whether you’re dealing with muddy low-end or trying to add sparkle to vocals, this episode will enhance your understanding of these critical EQ techniques.   Plus, stick around for their always entertaining Friday Finds—this week’s picks might surprise you! As always, expect a dose of humor and lively conversation as they keep things engaging and relatable.   Don’t miss this episode if you’re ready to fine-tune your EQ game and bring your mixes to life!   #CorrectiveEQ #SweeteningEQ #AudioMixingTips #MusicProduction #HomeStudio #ProAudio #EQTechniques #MixingEngineers #InsideTheRecordingStudio #AudioEngineering

In this no-nonsense episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody get straight to the point with five essential workflow tips designed to save time and keep your clients coming back for more. Whether you're working in a professional studio or a home setup, these practical strategies will help you cut inefficiencies, stay organized, and make the most of every session.   From streamlining your setup to making better creative decisions under pressure, these tips are the secret ingredients to cooking up a productive studio environment. And because no workflow is complete without a little personal flavor, Chris and Jody sprinkle in their own favorite methods for keeping the vibe professional yet creative. If you're looking to fine-tune your processes and impress your clients, this episode is your go-to resource.   #StudioWorkflow #AudioEngineering #MusicProductionTips #InsideTheRecordingStudio #ClientSatisfaction #StudioEfficiency #MixingTips #HomeStudio #MusicProducerLife #RecordingTips

In this episode Chris and Jody tackle two powerful tools in every engineer's arsenal: multi-band compressors and dynamic EQs. They break down the mechanics behind these dynamic processors, clarify the key differences, and share expert tips on when to reach for each in your mix. Whether you’re looking to control specific frequency ranges or give vocals that polished touch, this episode has you covered.   Tune in to hear how Chris and Jody use these processors on different instruments and vocals, offering practical applications and real-world examples. Plus, they’ll reveal their go-to multi-band compressors and dynamic EQ plugins, so you can get inspired to enhance your toolkit. From understanding the nuances of frequency-dependent compression to knowing the sweet spots for applying dynamic EQ, this episode is packed with insights to help you improve your mixing techniques. #MixingTechniques #AudioEngineering #MultiBandCompression #DynamicEQ #InsideTheRecordingStudio #ProMixingTips #AudioPlugins #SoundDesign #HomeStudio #StudioEngineer #MusicProduction

Ever wondered if your sessions will be accessible decades from now? In this insightful and practical episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the essential steps for archiving DAW sessions that can stand the test of time. Join the conversation as they share must-know tips on what elements to archive, smart organization strategies, and when to archive to keep your projects ready for the future. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or a dedicated home recordist, this episode will give you the tools to ensure your work is safe, accessible, and ready for whatever the future holds! #AudioArchiving #DAWSessionTips #FutureProofAudio #StudioLife #MusicProductionTips #HomeRecordingEssentials #InsideTheRecordingStudio #AudioEngineering #MixingWorkflow #SaveYourMix

In this friendly yet informative episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive into practical steps that musicians can take in their home DAW sessions to make mixing easier and more effective for engineers. If you've ever wanted to hand over cleaner, more organized tracks to your mixing engineer, this episode is packed with insights just for you. Chris and Jody break down essential practices like setting the correct sample rate, accurately naming tracks, and adjusting the tempo to perfectly match the song before hitting record. These simple yet impactful techniques can save valuable time, reduce back-and-forth communication, and ultimately lead to a better final mix. Tune in to learn how these tips will elevate your home recordings and make a lasting impression in the studio.   #HomeRecordingTips, #DAWBestPractices, #MixingPrep, #AudioRecording, #InsideTheRecordingStudio

In this special episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody sit down with Martin Seidl, the driving force behind Austrian Audio. Join us as we dive deep into the rich history of Austrian Audio, from its roots in Vienna to becoming a key player in the pro audio world. Martin shares the fascinating story behind their flagship microphone, the OC818, discussing its innovative features and how it stands out in a crowded market. But that’s just the beginning – we also explore Austrian Audio’s range of high-quality microphones, headphones, and their unique approach to capturing sound. Learn about advanced miking techniques and discover how Austrian Audio's pioneering work in spatial audio is reshaping the way we think about sound. Whether you’re an intermediate or advanced audio engineer, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge audio technology, and will give you practical insights into making the most of Austrian Audio’s tools in your recordings.   #AustrianAudio, #OC818, #ProAudioGear, #MicrophoneTechniques, #SpatialAudio, #AudioEngineers, #InsideTheRecordingStudio, #StudioGear, #MicingTechniques, #ProAudioTools

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody delve into the art of compressing electric guitars, sharing expert insights on how to get the most out of your compression tools. Whether you're aiming for tight, punchy tones or smooth, sustained textures, understanding when and how to use compression is crucial for achieving professional-level guitar mixes. We cover everything from subtle dynamic control to more aggressive techniques, helping you decide when it's necessary to apply compression. Explore the nuances of track-based compression versus bus compression, and learn how these approaches can be used to add punch and clarity or glue a mix together. We also discuss our go-to compressors for electric guitars, including iconic models like the 1176 for aggressive, fast-attack control, the LA-2A for smooth, transparent leveling, the Distressor for versatility, and the SSL compressor for adding cohesion on the bus. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or looking to refine your skills, this episode provides practical advice on using these classic tools to sculpt your guitar tones to perfection. We’ll take you through real-world examples, showing how different compressors can shape the sound of electric guitars and when each tool shines the brightest.   #GuitarCompression, #1176Compressor, #LA2A, #Distressor, #SSLCompressor, #MixingTips, #AudioEngineering, #GuitarMixing, #InsideTheRecordingStudio, #BusCompression, #TrackCompression

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive into a powerful mixing technique for drums—setting up two separate drum busses to take your drum mix to the next level. Specifically, we’ll cover how to use one bus for shell-style drums (kick, snare, toms) and a second bus for metal-style drums (hi-hats, ride, cymbals). If you’ve ever struggled to get clarity and punch from your drum recordings, this episode is for you. We’ll break down: Why Two Drum Busses?: Discover the benefits of splitting your drum kit into two busses—how it allows for greater control over the dynamics, EQ, and processing of the different types of drums, from heavy, punchy kicks to shimmering cymbals. Setting Up the Shell Drum Bus: Learn how to treat your shell-style drums (kick, snare, toms) as a unified group, from EQ and compression settings to how much low-end punch and midrange power to dial in. Processing the Metal Drum Bus: We'll guide you through processing your hi-hats, rides, and cymbals separately, emphasizing top-end sheen, clarity, and space without overwhelming the mix. Balancing the Two Busses: Once both busses are dialed in, we’ll discuss how to balance them for maximum impact in your mix, ensuring that your drums sit perfectly in your track without competing frequencies. Advanced Techniques: Explore creative options like parallel compression and reverb settings that are bus-specific, enhancing the separation and power of your drum elements. Whether you’re working on a dense rock mix or a more spacious, dynamic track, this episode will help you achieve a clean, balanced, and powerful drum sound. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and revolutionize how you mix drums! ****************************** Gear we used: Jody's Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 - Groove Tubes Vipre - Apollo - UA Neve 1073 - UA LA2A - UA Studer A800 Jody's Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise - iZotope RX Mouth DeClick - UA Neve 1073 - UA LA2A - UA 1176E Chris' Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 - Apollo - UA - Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) - iZotope RX Voice - DeNoise Chris' Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align - iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise - iZotope RX Mouth DeClick - UA Neve 1073 - UA LA2A - UA 1176E Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 - iZotope Ozone Imager - iZotope Ozone Maximize. ****************************** If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product - contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, we break down the art of hearing compression in your recordings—specifically focusing on how compression affects the sound of a brass snare drum using Logic's Platinum Compressor. Compression can be a tricky tool to master, especially when it comes to subtle changes in dynamics. Join us as we discuss: Understanding Compression: We start by explaining how compression works on an instrument like a snare drum, particularly a brass snare, and how it shapes the attack, sustain, and release of the sound. Using Logic's Platinum Compressor: Learn how to dial in the right settings on Logic’s versatile Platinum Compressor to hear the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) differences. From threshold to ratio, attack, and release, we guide you through the parameters to tweak for maximum effect. Listening Techniques: Not sure what you should be listening for? We break down key listening tips so you can learn to hear compression as it smooths out transients, tightens up dynamic range, and gives the snare its distinctive punch. Creative vs. Transparent Compression: Discover the difference between using compression to subtly enhance your mix and using it as a creative tool to completely reshape the sound of an instrument. Whether you're a beginner looking to understand compression or a seasoned producer fine-tuning your ear, this episode will help you harness the power of compression on your drum recordings. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and start making more intentional compression decisions!   #Compression101, #LogicPro, #PlatinumCompressor, #BrassSnare, #AudioMixing, #MusicProduction, #SoundDesign