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    Side-Chaining: What It Is and How To Use Side-Chaining In Your Mixes



    The Power of Side-Chaining: How to Control Dynamics Like a Pro
    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody dive headfirst into the world of side-chaining—one of the most powerful (and often misunderstood) tools in music production. Whether you’re ducking a bass under a kick or carving space in a dense vocal mix, understanding how to properly use side-chaining can transform your tracks from cluttered to crystal clear.
    Chris & Jody break down what side-chaining actually is, walk you through how to set it up in your DAW, and even show you how to use it on the MPC Live hardware. Expect practical tips, creative techniques, and their signature banter as they explore multiple side-chaining methods and reveal common mistakes to avoid.
    If you’re ready to tighten your low-end, add groove to your synths, or just learn why everyone keeps talking about compression, this episode will give you the tools and know-how to make side-chaining work for you.
    Oh, and don’t miss this week’s Friday Finds—you just might discover your next studio obsession. And yes, a bit of nonsense is included at no extra charge.

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    Gear we used:
    Jody’s Mic & Voice Chain: Telefunken C12 – Groove Tubes Vipre – Apollo – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA Studer A800
    Jody’s Channel Strip: iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Chris’ Mic & Voice Chain: Slate ML1 – Apollo – UA – Slate VMR (FG12, FG73, API Eq, SSL 4kE) – iZotope RX Voice – DeNoise
    Chris’ Channel Strip: Eventide Precision Time Align – iZotope RX Spectral DeNoise – iZotope RX Mouth DeClick – UA Neve 1073 – UA LA2A – UA 1176E

    Master: Oek Sound Soothe 2 – iZotope Ozone Imager – iZotope Ozone Maximize.

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    If you want to collaborate, sponsor a podcast, donate, or want us to review your product – contact us at: collaborate@insidetherecordingstudio.com

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    Tuesday Tip: The Importance of Good File Management


    In this video, Jody gives a couple of examples of why good file management, as well as the printing of virtual instruments before mixing, should always be a part of your workflow.

  • How to use reference mixes to help your mixing work



    Your mix is sounding great—but is it great enough?
    In this episode, Chris & Jody break down the art and science of using reference mixes to elevate your work from good to release-ready. Learn why comparing your mix to commercial tracks isn’t “cheating”—it’s a critical listening strategyused by professionals across the globe.

    They’ll walk you through how to choose the right reference tracks, what to listen for (hint: it’s not just EQ curves), and how to integrate reference monitoring without sabotaging your workflow. You’ll also get the inside scoop on plugins designed to streamline the process—because your ears deserve precision tools.

    Whether you’re mixing in a home studio or a full-blown facility, using references the right way can take your mix from “meh” to “masterful.” And yes—there’s still room for a little nonsense and this week’s Friday Finds.

    Hit play and make your next mix smarter, faster, and more pro.

    ******************************

    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

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