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