• How To Use Distortion Right – Multiple Quick Tips



    Who says distortion is just for metalheads? Chris & Jody are here to prove that everything sounds better when you add a little dirt. In this episode, they show you how to sprinkle distortion like hot sauce—on guitars (obviously), bass (oh yeah), vocals (why not?), and even drums (yes, really). Along the way, they’ll dish out practical home studio gear advice, clever tricks, and plenty of nonsense—because what’s distortion without a little chaos? Of course, their Friday Finds return to give you new toys to play with after you’re done frying your mix. This isn’t just distortion 101—it’s distortion with attitude.

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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

  • MainStage 101: How To Get Started With The Best Live Audio Software On The Market!



    MainStage: not just another Apple logo slapped on software. Chris & Jody get their hands dirty with this live-performance beast, spilling the beans on why it’s the unsung hero of both touring rigs and bedroom setups. They cover what it’s best at, which instruments will thank you, and how to avoid a crash mid-solo (because yes, that’s a thing). You’ll also find out how MainStage sneaks its way into studio workflows like a ninja of hidden features in studio gear. Plus, our hosts throw in their signature Friday Finds—because you deserve a treat after geeking out over plugins and performance tricks. Buckle up: this isn’t your average sales pitch, it’s Chris & Jody telling you why MainStage might just be your new favorite sidekick.

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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

  • The Ultimate Guide to Headphone Monitor Mixes for Any Studio Setup



    Get the Perfect Headphone Mix—Without Breaking the Bank or Losing Your Mind

    This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody dive deep into the art of headphone monitor mixes—an often overlooked yet critical part of any tracking session. Whether you’re recording in a bedroom with a DIY setup or outfitting a mid-level or pro studio, this episode delivers practical solutions to help artists feel confident, comfortable, and ready to perform.

    From clever “hack” methods for home studio gear, to tried-and-true semi-pro gear setups, all the way to high-end monitoring systems used in top-tier rooms, Chris & Jody break down the options, trade-offs, and workflow upgrades that make a difference. They explore client psychology, how to balance cue mixes, and what to avoid when setting up monitor chains.

    It’s a blend of tech insight, budget wisdom, and—of course—some lighthearted nonsense along the way.

    Plus: This week’s Friday Finds
    Gold Star Word Challenge
    Real-world tips for comfort, clarity, and creativity

    Whether you’re wrangling vocalists in a closet or prepping a drummer in a commercial space, this episode has recording setup tips you’ll use again and again.

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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

  • Tuesday Tip: Passive vs. Active Pickups


    As opposed to a regular ‘tip’, Chris plays you guitar tracks recorded with either passive or active pickups. Will you be able to pick which is which?

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