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    Mixing Secret Revealed: Learn How To Master Parallel Compression



    Parallel Compression Explained

    As 2022 winds down, Chris and Jody take a side street and head down the alley of one of mixing’s most trusted (and sometimes misunderstood) techniques: parallel compression. Whether you call it New York compression, “upward compression,” or just “squash and blend,” this method can add punch, depth, and presence to a mix—without flattening dynamics into oblivion.

    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody dive into the what, why, and how of parallel compression. They explain not only the mechanics but also the artistic reasoning behind using it.

    What You’ll Learn

    • How to do parallel compression step by step, whether you’re working with outboard gear, console routing, or in-the-box plugins.
    • The methods that can achieve it, from aux sends and buses to dedicated parallel processors.
    • Why you’d want to use it: bringing drums forward, adding vocal energy, or thickening bass without losing transient snap.
    • Pitfalls to watch out for, like phase issues, over-compression, or muddying the mix.
    • Which compressors Chris and Jody reach for most often when they’re doing parallel work.

    Why It Matters

    Parallel compression isn’t just a flashy trick—it’s a powerful way to add energy and life to a mix while keeping dynamics intact. Chris and Jody share real-world examples of when and how they use it, plus workflow hacks and recording setup tips to make the process smoother. Whether you’re running classic outboard units or building chains from home studio gear, you’ll walk away with new ideas to elevate your mixes.

    Expect the Unexpected

    Of course, this wouldn’t be Inside the Recording Studio without some humor and nonsense. Along the way, Chris and Jody poke fun at their own habits, swap stories from sessions gone right (and wrong), and remind us that at the end of the day, it’s all about making music that moves people.

    By the end of the episode, you’ll not only understand parallel compression—you’ll know how to wield it 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

  • Talking Music, Life, Creation and more with Venus Theory



    An In-Depth Conversation with Venus Theory

    Every once in a while, a creative voice comes along that blends artistry, curiosity, and relentless innovation into something bigger than music alone. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody sit down for a power-packed 90-minute interview with Cameron, better known as Venus Theory—a creative powerhouse whose journey is as inspiring as it is unconventional.

    Venus Theory didn’t take the typical path into music. From what Chris and Jody jokingly call his “humble beginnings on Mount Olympus” to carving out a niche in sound design, production, and creative storytelling, Cameron’s story is equal parts myth and reality. He’s a producer, a YouTuber, a thinker, and someone who’s continually exploring how technology and artistry intersect.

    What You’ll Hear in This Episode

    Chris and Jody guide the conversation across a wide range of topics that go beyond gear talk (though yes, there’s plenty of that too):

    • The unique journey Venus Theory took into music and sound design.
    • Insights into creativity—how to find inspiration, overcome roadblocks, and keep pushing forward.
    • The realities of modern production in a world of DAWs, plugins, and home studio gear.
    • Discussions about life, balance, and staying grounded while building a creative career.
    • A dive into workflow, recording setup tips, and habits that keep projects moving.

    This isn’t just an interview—it’s a wide-ranging conversation that’s as much about life as it is about music. With humor, candid insights, and the occasional tangent (because what’s an Inside the Recording Studio episode without some nonsense?), Chris and Jody uncover what makes Venus Theory tick and how his perspective can resonate with musicians, producers, and creatives everywhere.

    Why It Matters

    Whether you know Venus Theory from his music, his tutorials, or his thoughtful online presence, this episode offers a chance to hear the person behind the work. You’ll gain not only practical advice but also a deeper appreciation for the mindset that fuels creativity in today’s music world.

    So grab your favorite set of headphones, settle in, and prepare for a 90-minute ride full of wisdom, laughs, and inspiration.

    For more on Cameron, visit www.venustheory.com.

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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.

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

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

  • 5 Studio Workflow Tips That Will Make You A Studio Pro!



    5 Workflow Tips to Stop Wasting Clients’ Time

    Time is money—and nowhere is that truer than in the recording studio. Clients are paying not just for your gear and your ears, but for your efficiency. Every minute spent fumbling with files, chasing down cables, or tweaking a broken setup is a minute they’re paying for silence. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody cut to the chase with five studio workflow tips that keep your sessions running smoothly and your clients coming back.

    The Big 5 Workflow Tips

    Chris and Jody outline five practical strategies that can transform the way you work. From setting up templates and organizing tracks in advance, to mastering the art of clear communication, these are the habits that save hours over the course of a project. Each tip is simple, actionable, and ready to be dropped straight into your daily workflow.

    1. Prep your sessions before the client arrives. Empty DAWs don’t impress anyone—templates and routing do.
    2. Organize your files and backups. Lost takes mean lost trust.
    3. Streamline your gear setup. Knowing your home studio gear inside out avoids wasted troubleshooting.
    4. Keep communication sharp. No one likes guessing games in the control room.
    5. Know when to stop tweaking. Endless nitpicking burns time, energy, and goodwill.

    A Personal Flavor to the Stew

    Of course, this wouldn’t be Inside the Recording Studio without Chris and Jody sprinkling in some personal seasoning. They share a few of their own studio choices and workflow quirks—little things that may not be on a universal checklist but help color the stew of a session. Expect stories, banter, and maybe a bit of nonsense along the way.

    Why It Matters

    Clients who feel like their time is respected will keep coming back—and they’ll tell others. By integrating these workflow tips, you’re not just improving efficiency, you’re building a reputation for professionalism. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer in a commercial space or a self-starter running a DAW in your bedroom, these strategies will make your sessions more effective and enjoyable.

    So, fire up the front burners, let these tips simmer into your process, and watch your studio workflow turn into a well-oiled machine.

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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.

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

    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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