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.
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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.
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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 -
Recording Advice: Why No Rules Is Bad Advice
Why “There Are No Rules in Recording” Might Be Hurting You
This week, Chris & Jody tackle one of the most overused phrases in music production: “There are no rules—just use your ears!” Sound familiar? While the sentiment may seem freeing, it can be confusing—or downright harmful—for beginners trying to improve their recording skills.
In classic Inside the Recording Studio style, Chris & Jody dissect why this advice misses the mark, especially for those who actually want to learn the craft, not just “wing it.” They’ll share real-world examples of when rules do matter—like gain staging, monitoring, and audio interface troubleshooting—and how understanding foundational principles can actually make your creativity more powerful.
Expect thoughtful insights, a few contrarian hot takes, and as always… a side order of well-seasoned nonsense.
Whether you’re a newcomer lost in forums or a DIY producer trying to level up, this episode will help you understand when to trust your ears—and when to know better.
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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 -
How to use the Sonarworks plugin to make your mixes sound better and improve your music production
Making use of the Sonarworks Reference and/or SoundID plugin to help improve your mixes. In this Tuesday Tip we walk you thru where to put the Sonarworks Plugin. Make sure to know when it’s on and off. Listening to examples of it on a mix in the off and on position with two different profiles. All in order to help you understand how to improve the quality of your mixes by getting a flatter response in your studio environment.