• Elevate Your Singing Game: Expert Tips on Vocal Mic Placement



    Getting the perfect vocal take isn’t just about talent—it’s about technique, positioning, and knowing how to work the mic. Whether you’re tracking in a pro studio or recording in a DIY setup, mic distance can make or break your vocal mix.

    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody break down the art and science of mic positioning and why finding the sweet spot is crucial for getting that clear, full-bodied, and professional vocal sound.

    What We’re Covering:

    How close should a singer be to the mic? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but we’ll explain the general rules and when to break them.

    What happens when you get it wrong? From muddy, boomy vocals to thin and lifeless recordings, mic distance can have a huge impact on tone and clarity.

    Should singers hold the mic? Live performance vs. studio tracking—why holding the mic might seem like a good idea, but often leads to unwanted inconsistencies.

    What is the proximity effect? Ever wondered why getting too close to the mic makes vocals sound overly bass-heavy? We’ll break down how this phenomenon works and how to use it to your advantage (or avoid it entirely!).

    Fixing common recording mistakes. Whether you’re dealing with plosives, sibilance, or room reflections, we’ll share practical tips to troubleshoot mic placement issues in any recording environment.

    Bonus: Don’t miss this week’s Friday Finds—where we share the latest gear, plugins, and tricks that could change the way you record vocals forever.

    It’s all about getting the best vocal takes—without the guesswork. Tune in and let’s demystify the perfect mic placement together!

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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

  • Transform Your Vocals: Exciting Delay Techniques You MUST Try!



    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!

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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

  • Amp Up Your Vocals: The Ultimate Guide to Using Distortion!



    In this electrifying episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive deep into the gritty world of using distortion on vocals. Distortion isn’t just for guitars—when used creatively, it can add character, emotion, and intensity to vocal tracks. But how do you know when and where to apply it without overpowering your mix? Join us as we explore the ins and outs of vocal distortion, from subtle warmth to full-on sonic chaos.

    Episode Highlights:

    1. Why Use Distortion on Vocals? Discover the reasons why distortion can be a game-changer for vocals. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of grit to a rock track or want to create an aggressive, in-your-face sound, Chris and Jody discuss how distortion can enhance the emotional impact of your vocals and give them a unique edge.
    2. Choosing the Right Tools for the Job: Get an in-depth look at the best tools for adding distortion to vocals. The hosts explore popular plugins and hardware options, including tube screamers, overdrive pedals, and digital distortion plugins. Learn how each tool can impart different textures and tones, and how to choose the right one for your specific needs.
    3. When and Where to Use Distortion on Vocals: Timing is everything when it comes to using distortion. Chris and Jody offer guidance on when to apply distortion for maximum impact, whether it’s on lead vocals, background harmonies, or specific sections of a song. They also discuss scenarios where distortion might not be the best choice, helping you avoid common pitfalls that can muddy up your mix.
    4. Creative Distortion Techniques: Explore a range of creative techniques for using distortion on vocals. From blending clean and distorted signals to automating distortion effects for dynamic vocal performances, the hosts share tips and tricks that will inspire you to experiment and push the boundaries of your vocal production.
    5. Balancing Distortion in the Mix: Learn how to integrate distorted vocals into your mix without losing clarity and balance. Chris and Jody discuss EQ, compression, and parallel processing techniques that allow you to maintain control over distorted vocals while keeping them cohesive within the overall track.

    Whether you’re looking to add a subtle edge to your vocals or go all-in on distortion, this episode is packed with practical advice and creative inspiration. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and discover the art of using distortion on vocals to create powerful, memorable performances.

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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

  • Pitch Correction Magic: How to Achieve Natural-Sounding Vocals!



    In this must-listen episode of Inside the Recording Studio, hosts Chris and Jody delve into the fascinating world of vocal pitch correction. Whether you’re an experienced producer or just starting out, understanding how to use pitch correction software can make a world of difference in your vocal productions. Join us as we explore the techniques and tools that can help you achieve transparent, natural-sounding pitch adjustments in your mixes.

    Episode Highlights:

    1. The Role of Vocal Pitch Correction: Learn why pitch correction has become an essential tool in modern music production. Chris and Jody discuss the importance of maintaining a natural vocal performance while subtly correcting pitch issues to ensure your tracks sound polished and professional.
    2. Techniques for Transparent Pitch Correction: Discover the art of making pitch corrections without compromising the authenticity of the vocal performance. The hosts share their expert tips on how to apply pitch correction subtly, avoiding the common pitfalls that can lead to robotic or unnatural-sounding vocals. Learn about techniques like formant shifting, note-by-note adjustments, and the importance of context in pitch correction.
    3. Exploring Popular Pitch Correction Plugins: Get an overview of some of the most popular pitch correction software on the market today. Chris and Jody discuss industry-standard plugins like Auto-Tune, Melodyne, and Waves Tune, comparing their features and highlighting what makes each one unique. Whether you’re looking for real-time correction or detailed manual adjustments, you’ll gain insights into which tool might be best suited for your workflow.
    4. Creative Uses of Pitch Correction: Beyond simple corrections, pitch correction software can be used creatively to shape your vocal sound. The hosts explore how artists and producers use pitch correction as an effect, from the iconic Auto-Tune sound to more subtle enhancements that add character and uniqueness to a vocal track.

    Whether you’re aiming for subtle corrections or bold, creative vocal effects, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to mastering pitch correction in your productions. Tune in now to Inside the Recording Studio and take your vocal mixing skills to new heights!

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