• Advanced Uses of Delay: Why Knowing The Math Makes For Better Delay Mastery



    Delay isn’t just an effect—it’s one of the most powerful tools in a mix engineer’s arsenal. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody dive deep into the world of using delay in mixing, breaking down both the technical and creative sides of this essential effect.

    They start with the math: how to calculate delay times in milliseconds based on tempo, and why knowing these numbers matters—especially when working with hardware units that don’t automatically sync to your DAW. Whether you’re new to effects or a seasoned pro, this section will give you practical recording setup tips you can apply immediately.

    Next, they explore the different types of delay—slapback, ping-pong, tape, digital, multi-tap, and more—and explain when each might shine in a track. From thickening vocals to widening guitars to adding rhythmic movement in synth-heavy productions, delay opens endless creative doors. Chris & Jody also share how they personally get inventive with delay in ways that go far beyond simply “echoing” a sound.

    But this isn’t just a technical masterclass—it’s also about perspective. They discuss why the discipline of calculating and placing delays correctly is just as important as experimenting wildly with them. After all, a mix is only as strong as the choices behind it.

    Of course, expect their usual blend of humor and nonsense along the way, plus this week’s Friday Finds, highlighting tools and freebies that can elevate your workflow.

    Whether you’re building your arsenal of home studio gear, troubleshooting audio interface latency, or looking for hidden features in studio gear that unlock new sonic textures, this episode equips you with both knowledge and inspiration to make delay your secret weapon in the studio.

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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

  • Separation 101: How To Create Separation Between Instruments In Your Mix



    Achieving separation between instruments in mixing is one of the most important yet misunderstood aspects of music production. Chris & Jody cut through the confusion in this week’s Inside the Recording Studio episode, diving deep into why separation matters, when it’s necessary, and how to achieve it without sacrificing vibe.

    From classic EQ and panning techniques to dynamic control and clever use of ambience, they outline practical recording setup tips you can apply in any session—whether you’re building tracks in a modest home studio gear setup or working in a fully outfitted pro environment. You’ll hear “road warrior” stories from real-world mixing situations where creative problem solving saved the day, plus insights into how too much separation can actually flatten a mix rather than enhance it.

    Is separation a technical checkbox, or an artistic choice that depends on context? Chris & Jody break down the balance between clarity and cohesion, sprinkling in their trademark humor (don’t worry—no actual divorces will occur in this discussion). To top it off, they wrap the episode with their Friday Finds, showcasing new tools, plugins, or ideas that can improve your workflow today.

    If you’ve ever struggled with mud, masking, or wondering why your carefully crafted parts disappear in a dense arrangement, this episode is a must-listen. Separation isn’t just about pulling instruments apart—it’s about giving every sound its place, so the whole track breathes.

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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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