• Recording Advice: Why No Rules Is Bad Advice



    Why “There Are No Rules in Recording” Might Be Hurting You

    This week, Chris & Jody tackle one of the most overused phrases in music production: “There are no rules—just use your ears!” Sound familiar? While the sentiment may seem freeing, it can be confusing—or downright harmful—for beginners trying to improve their recording skills.

    In classic Inside the Recording Studio style, Chris & Jody dissect why this advice misses the mark, especially for those who actually want to learn the craft, not just “wing it.” They’ll share real-world examples of when rules do matter—like gain staging, monitoring, and audio interface troubleshooting—and how understanding foundational principles can actually make your creativity more powerful.

    Expect thoughtful insights, a few contrarian hot takes, and as always… a side order of well-seasoned nonsense.

    Whether you’re a newcomer lost in forums or a DIY producer trying to level up, this episode will help you understand when to trust your ears—and when to know better.

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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

  • Recording Setup Tips: Studio Myths That Waste Your Money



    Studio Myths, Busted: From Oxygen-Free Cables to DAW Snobbery

    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody grab the magnifying glass and bust some of the most persistent (and occasionally hilarious) studio myths floating around the audio world. From oxygen-free cables and high-priced USB voodoo to the age-old “my DAW is better than your DAW” debate, it’s all on the table—and nothing is safe.

    Whether you’re a home studio warrior or a seasoned engineer, chances are you’ve heard (or believed) one of these. This episode helps separate audio fact from fiction, save you money, and possibly even save you from embarrassing gear conversations.

    But don’t worry—it’s not just a takedown. Chris & Jody bring real-world context, technical clarity, and their usual dose of dry wit and studio-side sarcasm. Plus, of course, they sneak in some of their favorite Friday Finds along the way.

    Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe let go of a few long-held beliefs. This is your no-BS guide to smarter studio decision-making.

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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

  • Talkin About Stems And Multitracks – What’s The Flippin Difference?



    Stems vs. Multitracks: What You Think You Know Could Cost You a Gig

    Whether you’re collaborating with a producer across the globe, handing off a session for mixing, or prepping files for licensing, knowing the difference between stems and multitracks is more than semantics—it’s about sounding like a pro. In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris & Jody clear up the confusion and break down how to share projects properly, the right way.

    You’ll learn:

    • When to send stems vs. multitracks
    • How to prepare files for remote mixing or mastering
    • What clients or collaborators really mean when they ask for “the stems”
    • Why understanding terminology can help avoid embarrassment—and lost opportunities

    Plus, some real-world stories from the trenches, a few laughs, and your weekly Friday Finds.

    Whether you’re working in your bedroom or a commercial room, this episode gives you the edge you need to speak the language of studio professionals and avoid costly mistakes in project handoffs. And yes, there’s probably going to be a little nonsense along the way (you’ve met Chris & Jody, right?).

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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

  • The Ultimate Guide to Headphone Monitor Mixes for Any Studio Setup



    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

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