• Stems vs. Multitracks: The Best Lingo Guide for Music Producers!



    What exactly is the difference between stems and multitrack files—and why does it matter when you’re sending a session out into the world?

    In this knowledge-packed episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody unravel the often-confused terms and workflows behind project sharing in modern music production.

    Whether you’re a solo artist collaborating across the globe, a producer prepping tracks for a mix engineer, or someone just trying not to embarrass yourself on a licensing call—this episode helps you sound like you actually know what you’re talking about.

    Learn:

    • The difference between stems and multitracks (finally).
    • Why clarity matters when you’re collaborating or outsourcing.
    • What people really mean when they say “send me the stems.”
    • The right time to export, organize, and communicate project files.
    • How using the wrong term might derail your mix—or your reputation.

    And of course, expect the usual helping of nonsense, some studio banter, and a few Friday Finds worth checking out.

    So if you’ve ever hesitated mid-email wondering “Wait… is this a stem or a multitrack?” — this episode is for you.

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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

  • Audio Masking Exposed: How to Bring Every Instrument into the Spotlight!



    Chris and Jody wade into the murky depths of audio masking—a sneaky culprit that can turn your mix into a muddy mess. If your instruments are fighting for attention and your mix feels cluttered, this episode is for you!

    We’ll explore:

    • What is audio masking? The science behind why some sounds disappear in a mix.
    • Which instruments are the usual suspects? Find out where masking commonly occurs.
    • How to spot (and stop) masking before it kills your clarity.
    • Listening strategies & EQ moves to carve out space for each track.
    • The best software tools to visually detect and fix masking issues.

    Plus, this week’s Friday Finds brings another audio gem, and—let’s be honest—some nonsense will probably slip through.

    Whether you’re mixing your first track or refining your pro workflow, this episode will help you clear the mud and make your mix shine!

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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

  • From Clutter to Clarity: Expert Layering Techniques for a Powerful Mix!



    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive headfirst into the art (and occasional disaster) of layering similar instruments in a mix. When done right, layering can add depth, texture, and power—but when done wrong, you’re left with a cluttered, phasey mess that no amount of EQ can fix.

    We’re tackling:
    Synths – Can stacking multiple pads create a lush soundscape, or does it just turn into an undefined blob?
    Guitars – Doubling and layering techniques that add energy without losing clarity.
    Basses – Thickening the low end vs. creating an unintelligible rumble.
    Drums – Why layering kicks and snares can be powerful… but also tricky.
    Vocals – Finding the right balance between rich harmonies and overprocessed chaos.

    Along the way, we’ll talk common layering pitfalls, best practices, and how to decide when enough is enough. And of course, no episode would be complete without some nonsense and this week’s mysterious Friday Finds—trust us, you want to hear this one.

    If you’ve ever struggled with getting layers to sit just right, this episode is packed with actionable mixing tips to help you achieve a bigger, more professional sound without losing clarity. Hit play and let’s stack those layers the right way!

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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

  • Unlock Pro-Level Clarity: Mastering EQ and Dynamics for Cleaner Mixes



    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!

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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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