• Mono Compatibility Explained – How To Check For It!



    Why Mono Compatibility Still Matters

    In a world where stereo reigns supreme, it’s easy to forget that not every listener is hearing your mix the way you intended. With smart speakers, phones, tablets, and even some club systems summing signals down to mono, mono compatibility is more relevant than ever. That’s why in this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody tackle the ins and outs of making sure your mixes don’t collapse when played back in mono.

    They start by answering the big question: why care about mono at all? After all, stereo mixes are the standard. But Chris and Jody point out that ensuring your mix translates in mono isn’t about being old-school—it’s about being professional. Whether it’s phase issues, instrument masking, or loss of clarity, ignoring mono compatibility can mean your carefully crafted mix sounds hollow, weak, or even broken in real-world playback situations.

    Key takeaways from the episode include:

    • The reasons mono compatibility still matters in 2024 and beyond.
    • How to check your mix in mono using plugins, DAW tools, and even some “low-tech” tricks.
    • Common pitfalls that destroy mono compatibility, including phase cancellation and over-wide stereo effects.
    • How home studio gear can be optimized for better translation across systems.
    • Practical recording setup tips to reduce mono issues before mixing even begins.

    Chris and Jody also share some war stories from the trenches—times when ignoring mono compatibility came back to bite. And of course, because this is Inside the Recording Studio, you can expect some nonsense and laughter along the way to balance out the technical talk.

    By the end of this episode, you’ll know why mono compatibility isn’t just an afterthought but an essential part of mixing. More importantly, you’ll walk away with practical steps to make sure your mixes hold up whether they’re booming in stereo headphones or blasting from a single smart speaker in someone’s kitchen.

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

    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

  • Why the SSL 4000 Console Still Defines Professional Mixing



    Exploring the SSL 4000 Console

    Few pieces of gear are as legendary in the world of music production as the SSL 4000 console. Its punchy sound, intuitive workflow, and unmistakable sonic character have shaped countless hit records across decades. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody strap in and take you on a guided tour through the history, the features, and the undeniable magic of the SSL 4000.

    They kick things off with a brief history of Solid State Logic—from the company’s beginnings to how the 4000 series quickly became a staple in professional studios worldwide. From there, it’s straight into the nuts and bolts:

    • Inputs: how signals enter the desk and the sonic footprint they leave.
    • Dynamics: compressors, gates, and expanders that give tracks punch and control.
    • EQ: the sweet, aggressive, unmistakable SSL curves that can bring a mix to life.
    • Filters: high-pass and low-pass shaping tools that keep mixes clean.
    • The “SSL Sound”: what makes this board instantly recognizable and why engineers still chase it today.

    Chris and Jody don’t just geek out on features—they explain why the SSL workflow matters and how the 4000 has influenced DAW design, plugin emulations, and modern studio setups. They also highlight how the board’s architecture still informs the way producers and mix engineers think about recording setup tips and hidden features in studio gear.

    And, because this is Inside the Recording Studio, it’s not all tech talk. Expect humor, stories, and a sprinkle of nonsense along the way. Whether you’re running an SSL plugin in your home studio gear setup or you’ve had the chance to sit behind the real thing, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation for one of the most iconic consoles in recording history.

    Plus, don’t miss this week’s Friday Finds, where Chris and Jody share new tools and ideas to keep your workflow sharp.

    By the end, you’ll understand not just the anatomy of the SSL 4000, but why it’s still considered one of the most important boards in the history of recorded music.

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

    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

  • Productivity Hacks – How To Have Productive Downtime



    How to Have Productive Downtime

    Every studio professional knows the rhythm: one week you’re slammed with sessions, bouncing between recording, mixing, and mastering, and the next you find yourself staring at a blank DAW screen with no projects on the calendar. What do you do when things get quiet? In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody unload their best strategies for staying productive during downtime—so that when the work ramps back up, you’re sharper, faster, and better prepared than before.

    They break it down into three categories of ideas designed to keep both your workflow and your creativity in top shape:

    1. Sharpen Your Skills

    Downtime is the perfect opportunity to dig into tutorials, revisit techniques, or practice mixing and mastering on old projects. Chris and Jody talk about how even simple exercises—like revisiting EQ decisions or exploring hidden features in studio gear—can level up your confidence and speed when deadlines hit.

    2. Optimize Your Setup

    When’s the last time you gave your studio some TLC? Whether it’s updating software, tackling audio interface troubleshooting, reorganizing your file system, or literally doing some spring cleaning, downtime is ideal for tightening up your recording setup tips. Chris and Jody share what they do to make sure their studios run smoothly, including those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” tasks like labeling cables or learning how to clean music gear the right way.

    3. Refuel Your Creativity

    Being productive doesn’t always mean grinding. Sometimes it’s about recharging. Chris and Jody talk about ways to step back from the console—reading, listening, exploring new music, or even leaning into a little nonsense—and why this mental reset is just as valuable as technical practice.

    Throughout the episode, expect the usual mix of real-world anecdotes, humor, and a touch of nonsense. Plus, don’t miss this week’s Friday Finds, where Chris and Jody share tools and ideas that can inspire you when things feel slow.

    By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with practical steps for turning downtime into growth time—whether you’re working in a full pro facility or a home studio gear setup.

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

    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

  • OS Update: What Every Musician Needs To Know And Consider Before Making The Switch To A New OS



    When is the right time to update the OS on your recording computer? Chris & Jody break down the pros, cons, and potential pitfalls of keeping your studio machine current. From compatibility concerns with plugins and interfaces to the risk of downtime during critical projects, they share practical recording setup tips to help you make the best decision. One of them recently went through the process and lived to tell the tale—complete with lessons learned and a few surprises. Should you wipe your system clean and start fresh, or is a simple upgrade enough? And how do you safeguard your home studio gear against unnecessary headaches? As always, the guys bring a balance of real-world experience, humor, and their Friday Finds to round things out. If you’re debating whether to hit that update button, this episode is essential listening before you dive in.

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

    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

© 2020-2025 Inside the Recording Studio