• 5 EQ Tips for Kick Drums: Transform Your Mix with Pro Secrets!



    In this episode of Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody take on a critical piece of every mix—the kick drum. Whether you want deep, chest-thumping lows or a sharp, defined attack, EQ is the key to making your kick sit right in the mix.

    Here’s what we’re breaking down:
    Fundamental Low End – How to shape the bass for power without turning your mix into a muddy mess.
    Low Mids – The trouble zone! Tame the mud or embrace the warmth—your call.
    Upper Mids – Cutting through the mix without making your kick sound thin or harsh.
    The “Click” Factor – How the right amount of high-end attack can give your kick drum definition and presence.

    Plus, we’ll dig into cutting vs. boosting in each range and explain the “why” behind each choice—because knowing whatto tweak is only half the battle.

    And since this episode is all about kicks, we promise plenty of fun, a bit of nonsense, and of course, this week’s mysterious Friday Finds (you definitely don’t want to miss this one).

    If you’ve ever struggled to make your kick drum hit just right, this episode is packed with practical EQ tips to help you lock in the perfect sound. Hit play and let’s get that low end in shape!

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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

  • Mix Like a Pro: Channel Strips OR Individual Plugins? Find Out Now!



    This week on Inside the Recording Studio, Chris and Jody step into the ring for a battle of the workflows—Channel Strips vs. Individual Plugins!

    Ever wondered if you should streamline your mix with an all-in-one channel strip or go full mad scientist with a chain of individual plugins? We’re diving into:
    What exactly makes up a channel strip, and how does it compare to stacking separate plugins?
    The classic hardware emulations and modern virtual channel strips that bring analog-style workflow to your DAW.
    The pros and cons—efficiency vs. flexibility, simplicity vs. control, and everything in between.
    Why thinking of your DAW like a console might just change how you mix forever.

    Of course, no Inside the Recording Studio episode is complete without a bit of nonsense, so expect some laughs along the way. If you’re looking to refine your mixing workflow and make better creative decisions in your DAW, this episode is for you!

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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

  • Master the Mix: 5 Exciting Acoustic Guitar EQ Tips You Need to Know



    In this episode, Chris and Jody tackle the art of EQ’ing acoustic guitars to perfection. Whether you’re looking to add warmth, clarity, or sparkle to your tracks, this episode covers practical tips and creative ideas to help your acoustic guitar recordings shine.

    What’s on the agenda?

    • Taming the low end for a clean, controlled foundation.
    • Smoothing out the low mids to avoid muddiness.
    • Bringing presence and clarity to the upper mids for a balanced mix.
    • Adding a touch of sheen for brilliance and air.
    • Insights on when to cut, when to boost, and why it makes all the difference.

    Chris and Jody break down the audio spectrum in a way that’s easy to understand, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Plus, you’ll get their thoughts on how to approach EQ decisions creatively—because every mix is unique.

    And of course, don’t miss their signature Friday Finds, which are always worth a listen (and this week, there’s a surprise waiting). As usual, expect a bit of humor and nonsense along the way—it wouldn’t be Inside the Recording Studio without it!

    If you’ve ever struggled to make your acoustic guitars sit perfectly in the mix, this episode is your new secret weapon. Tune in and start enhancing your acoustic recordings today!

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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

  • Unlock Pro-Level Clarity: Mastering EQ and Dynamics for Cleaner Mixes



    Chris and Jody dive into one of the most common challenges in mixing: muddy mixes. Whether you’re struggling with unclear vocals, undefined instruments, or a mix that just feels too cluttered, this episode has you covered.

    Here’s what you’ll learn:

    • How your arrangement choices can set the foundation for a cleaner mix.
    • Tips for managing dynamics to prevent overlapping frequencies from getting out of control.
    • The power of EQ in carving out clarity and eliminating problematic low-mid frequencies.
    • A look at some software tools designed to help you clean up your mix, plus advice on using them effectively.

    Chris and Jody also share their thoughts on why addressing ‘mud’ is essential for achieving a polished, professional sound. And, as always, they bring their signature humor and fun to the conversation—because mixing should be enjoyable, right?

    Oh, and don’t forget this week’s Friday Finds—it’s a mystery worth sticking around for!

    Whether you’re new to mixing or looking to refine your skills, this episode will give you actionable insights to take your tracks to the next level. Tune in and start clearing the air in your mixes!

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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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